IN HONOUR of late former president Nelson Mandela, about 15 000 people participated in a walk and run in Tshwane yesterday.
The annual Nelson Mandela Remembrance Walk and Run was organised by the City of Tshwane, Gauteng government and Nelson Mandela Foundation.
It started at the Union Buildings in the early hours of the morning.
Runners and walkers then made their way to the Kgosi Mampuru II Prison and back to the Union Buildings to cross the finish line.
Acting Tshwane mayor Ntsiki Mokhotho said the City was proud to host the event, in partnership with the provincial government and the foundation.
Struggle stalwarts Sophie de Bruyn and George Bizos gave messages of support. De Bruyn said young people must continue where they had left off.
“We are handing over the baton to you. You’re equipped and educated,” she said.
“Today, you have all the gimmicks that we didn’t have, so you stand a better chance.”
Retired football players Kalusha Bwalya, Lucas Radebe and Aaron Mokoena took part in the run.
Radebe said: “It’s important to recognise icons that have made a great contribution to our country.”
The winner of the 10km run was Rildo Mhanderwa (22) from Zimbabwe.
“I flew in three weeks ago just to take part in this race. Madiba remains a hero,” she said.
