Run for rights
JON HOUZET
WHILE most of those celebrating human rights day in Port Alfred gathered at the hospital field for a R1.4-million splash with lots of speeches and entertainment, about 30 people took part in a "Run for rights" in Nemato.
| NON-PARTISAN: Friends, Ntombiyake Dayile and councillor Terri Stander after the "Run for rights" fun run in Nemato last week Picture: JON HOUZET |
The 5km fun run/walk was organised by DA councillor Terri Stander, who stressed it was not a political event.
She explained marshals along the route were wearing DA T-shirts because the municipality was not forthcoming with yellow vests.
There were about an equal number of black and white participants, and the sight of a string of white people walking and running around Nemato attracted many stares but also friendly greetings from residents.
At each marshall's station, participants were handed a piece of ticker tape stating one of the rights from South Africa's Bill of Rights.
Stander said the purpose of the run was to celebrate human rights day and build bridges between communities.
The run attracted serious runners as well as people who just enjoyed walking, with children in tow and the youngest being pushed in a pram.
Prizes were awarded for the first three men and women home, and the first boy and girl. 
Stander thanked the sponsors: SuperSpar, Ackermans, Woolworths, KNA, Leach Pharmacy, Foschini, Peddie Spar and Goshawk Litho.
"They were incredible sponsors at short notice," she said.
| STRONG COMPETITION: Sizakele Dayimani (left) came first and Nkosinathi Mfanyana came second in the "Run for rights" 5km fun run in Nemato on Human Rights Day Picture: JON HOUZET |