The annual Feet4Fees Youth Day Fun Run, held on June 16, 2024 at Groot Constantia Wine Estate, was once again a resounding success, bringing together trail runners and supporters in a memorable event to commemorate youth and education. Organised by the Spirit Education Foundation, the event featured the theme “Be a Hero, Run for Youth”, inspiring participants to contribute towards the skills development and mentorship programme at the Spirit Education Foundation.
As the official starter, Alderman Eddie Andrews, Cape Town Deputy Mayor & MMC: Spatial Planning and Environment, inspired participants and motivated them by highlighting the significance of supporting youth initiatives through community engagement. Runners from Floreat Primary School, along with their school principal, Mr Isaacs, and teachers, Grade 5-7 runners from Constantiaberg Primary School and scholars from Spirit Education Foundation scholarship programme all showcased their youthful talents. Inspiring the runners in the beginning, before they were about to conquer the tough trails of Groot Constantia Wine Estate, Saskia Wiese, General Manager, Spirit Education Foundation reminded the runners, “Remember the climb is worth the view, so when you feel you want to give up, remember the resilience of our youth, their challenges and keep climbing, when you reach the top, breath and appreciate your accomplishment and the spectacular views of the Peninsula”.
From the start to the finish, the event’s success lies in its collaboration and partnerships. A notable feature of the event was the sale of commemorative socks, sponsored by Salt Recruitment, that gave all the runners the extra push they needed. Running Wild fuelled our runners with refreshments and water to give each runner an extra boost. The finish line cheer by Spirit Foundation parents and Alumni was loud and proud as runners came speeding down the mountain and into the Fluid Energy finishing shoot. Rewarded with a keyring medal, goodies from RSAweb and a delicious doughnut from Donny’s Bakery, it was a joy filled morning for all. iLash Bar kindly offered all runners a lovely discount to rejuvenate and refresh with a massage after all their hard work and efforts. Participants not only ran on-site but also virtually, demonstrating widespread community involvement.
Through the collective efforts of participants, sponsors and supporters, Feet4Fees Youth Day Fun Run raised over R60,000. These funds will directly benefit the Spirit Education Foundation, enabling the organisation to continue its vital work in enhancing educational opportunities for young people. Everyone’s contributions were instrumental in making the event a success, highlighting their commitment to youth empowerment and education. “We are thrilled with the overwhelming response towards the Feet4Fees Youth Day Fun Run,” said Saskia Wiese, General Manager at Spirit Education Foundation. “The generosity and support from our sponsors and participants has exceeded our expectations, and we are excited about the positive impact these funds will have on our youth initiatives. No, let’s double it in 2025.” The success of Feet4Fees Youth Day Fun Run features the power of community and collective action in driving meaningful change. The Spirit Education Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this event a remarkable achievement.