Families and athletes gathered on a chilly morning at the Johannesburg Zoo to walk or run in support of the upcoming Netball World Cup 2023. The fun run and walk were part of an event hosted by Councillor Lubabalo Magwentshu, the MMC for Community Development, to hype locals about the upcoming netball showpiece in Cape Town. Before the official run began, participants enjoyed a successful aerobics session to energising music as a warm-up. Councillor Magwentshu expressed gratitude and delivered a brief speech, setting the tone for the adventurous run and walk amidst the zoo’s captivating animal exhibits.
“I am delighted to see the participants supporting this initiative, as they are not only supporting me but also the ladies competing in the Netball World Cup 2023. Our department’s focus is to prioritise women’s sports, which often receive inadequate attention from society,” said MMC Magwentshu.
As South Africa hosts the Netball World Cup for the first time since 2019, Councillor Magwentshu highlighted the importance of this historic event.
He said the fun run and walk at the zoo aimed to generate enthusiasm and emphasise the significance of the Netball World Cup.
“This is history in the making.”
Councillor Nokuthula Nofemela said the initiative not only supported the netball players but also promoted overall well-being and health among attendees.
Nofemela added that it strengthens the bond between the department and the community.
The Netball World Cup has made a substantial impact on sports in South Africa, raising awareness of women’s sports. The Community Development Department aims to further enhance this awareness.
“The 10-kilometre run felt like a walk in the park, a relaxing and thrilling initiative. As a City, we need more initiatives like these to keep our children off the streets and reduce crime rates,” said Councillor Margaret Arnold, the Chairperson of the Section 79 Committee on Community Development.Vicky Magu, President of the Johannesburg Sports and Recreation Federation, expressed her enthusiasm, stating that this event was the first of its kind since she joined the sports confederation.
Magu emphasised the importance of fundraising for fitness and hoped similar events could be organised for other facilities in the future.
Councillor Kenny Kunene, the MMC for Transport, finished the race first and commended the participation of young people in such events.
MMC Kunene emphasised the City’s need to encourage their enthusiasm for sports to steer them away from illegal activities.
“I want to give credit to MMC Magwentshu for spearheading this initiative, which has brought the organisation and the community together. I hope the City will make such programmes a regular occurrence, as they foster community support and unity,” added Councillor Kunene.
Written by Kelebogile Mofokeng
10/07/2023