RACE TO GENDER EQUALITY ENCOURAGES WOMEN AND GIRLS TO ACHIEVE GREATNESS

To be held on Sunday, 16 March at the Randburg Sports Complex, the 4th annual Race to Gender Equality will advocate for a shift in social values, promoting a fair and equal world where everyone has an opportunity to excel in their respective fields.

The Centre for Gender Equality, Wellness and Leadership (GEWAL) at the Motsepe Foundation is the host of the Race to Gender Equality, alongside their new organising partner the Masai Athletics Club. Over R550,000 in prize money will be awarded across the categories for the 10km and 21km half marathon, while the 5km fun run will support gender-equal development and coaching for the next generation of athletes.

The Race to Gender Equality fosters a distinct, family-like atmosphere, while also providing opportunities for both emerging and professional runners to challenge themselves. Past winners of the Race include Regina Ndungu, Jobo Khatoane, Glenrose Xaba, and Mathews Leeto.

Passing through the symbolic monuments Constitutional Hill and Nelson Mandela Bridge, the Race to Gender Equality emphasises that while progress has been made, we still have a long way to go to achieve gender parity.

Inspired by Nelson Mandela, who famously said that sport has the power to change the world, Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Co-Founder and CEO of the Motsepe Foundation said: “Sports serve as a public arena that can either reinforce or radically shift our perceptions of gender. Equal opportunities will enable more women and girls to discover their unique gifts and share them with the world”.

Olympic gold medallist and ambassador of the Race, Caster Semenya said: “I am honoured to work with organisations such as the Motsepe Foundation who believe that the future of sports is equal. I envision a world where every athlete has an equal chance to succeed regardless of their gender. Empowering women in sports is a catalyst to empowering women everywhere. We know that sports has the power to change the world. By promoting gender equality we can create a more inclusive and respectful culture that benefits everyone. This achievement requires collective action.”

Interested participants are encouraged to register at www.peaktiming.co.za. Closing date for registration is 12 March 2025