After a long suspension of sporting activities following the Covid-19 pandemic, Region F’s sport and recreation directorate held the exhilarating Stadium Dash Decathlon to enthral daredevils in Bertrams in the inner city.
Hosted at Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg Stadium, Ellis Park Arena, and Ellis Park Swimming Pool, the multi-disciplinary event started at 06:30 a.m. and finished at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, 13 March.
Featuring various track-and-field events, the Stadium Dash Decathlon saw adventure athletes tackle an exciting 6, 5km obstacle course made of 26 challenges, including a floating bridge across Ellis Park Swimming Pool, a 6, 5m high board jump, and a 2,4-ton car pull at Emirates Airline Park.
“Seeing this stadium full brings me joy and makes me realise how important sport is. These kinds of events are very important as they address social ills, promote social cohesion and keep people healthy,” said Nonhlanhla Maboa, Region F’s Assistance Director for Sport and Recreation.
The adventure obstacle event occurs once a year; however, the City hopes to host it more frequently to promote healthy lifestyles among residents of Johannesburg.
“I have always done obstacle course races, and obviously Covid-19 interrupted us, but it is a wonderful way to get out, keep fit, and connect with others. This is about improving your leadership skills, teamwork, and building relationships. It is not just physical, but it gives you a distinct set of growth opportunities,” said Sibusiso Nkosi, one of the participants.
After 2 years of not participating in obstacle course races since the Jump City Challenge, over 2 000 individuals attended this year’s event intending to have fun while challenging themselves in an adventure like no other in South Africa.
“Throughout the Covid-19 lockdown, we have been waiting for restrictions on events to be lifted in terms of numbers, and we are very happy and grateful that this year we can go on with our events,” said Tarryn Groenendyk, the event organiser.
One of the participants, Mario Mel said the event plays a vital role in people’s lives as it helps keep them healthy and fit. Mel hopes more events will resume as Covid-19 restrictions are reviewed. The City encourages residents to participate in sporting activities for healthy lifestyles and appreciates its loyal adventure course fans for showing love and supporting the Stadium Dash event for the past 10 years.
Written by Gontse ‘GeE’ Hlophe and Ntombifuthi Junerose Nkosi
14/03/2022