Last week, Mitchell, a little girl whom I have claimed as my ‘granddaughter’ brought home a form for a 5km Colour Fun Run at Zoetendal Academy, where she is in Grade 2. It was open to kids and any adults brave enough to join. “That sounds like fun!” I declared, and before I knew it, I’d filled in both our names and paid the entrance fee. What was I thinking? I haven’t jogged in eight years! Still, I walk regularly, so I figured I could give it a go.

My good intentions were to get fit during the following week, enough to jog at least a quarter of the way, but—well, life happened, and I didn’t! So, when the day dawned cool and cloudy (thank goodness for no heat exhaustion), my little lass arrived bursting with enthusiasm. We were among the earliest to register at the school, ready for whatever the day would bring.

The route was simply breathtaking. Zoetendal Academy is nestled in the picturesque village of Cape Agulhas, and we ran (and walked!) from the school, past the iconic lighthouse, all the way to the southernmost tip of Africa and back. The vibe at the school was electric—music played, kids danced and played, and everyone buzzed with anticipation.

Just before the start, buckets of poster paints were set out, and at a signal, everyone grabbed handfuls and threw colours over each other. Oh, what glorious fun! My friend Michele was there with a group of spirited ladies, including one who was 82 and game for it all.

When the bell rang, we all set off. Mitchell dashed ahead, not looking back to see if Granny was okay (I was, just at a much slower pace!). Yes, I did jog—very slowly—with long spells of brisk walking in between. Okay, mostly walking, and not so fast! But the route was stunning, the weather perfect, and the marshals cheered us on at every turn. It warmed my heart to see so many families supporting their children, even the tiniest ones riding on their dads’ shoulders when the going got tough.

I thought I was making pretty good progress to the half-way mark when I saw the front runners returning. They hadn’t even broken a sweat! And the toughies were even bare foot!

On the return route, I caught up with a woman about my age. We chatted in Afrikaans, sharing our walking histories. Near the finish, she said, “Kom, ons draf—Come, let’s jog,” and so we did—though she beat me. Well she is a year younger!

To our surprise, one of the lovely organisers offered us each a free hot dog for being the oldest participants. We declined (neither of us eat bread!), so we settled for jumbo sparkling waters instead. Then, to our delight, we were called to the podium—along with the 82-year-old mentioned earlier —and were each presented with a generous prize envelope. Sometimes, the elderly are NOT invisible and are truly appreciated for supporting the schools their young relatives and friends attend.

The winners in each category—men, women, boys, and girls—were awarded gold, silver and bronze medals and gift packs sponsored by Pick’n’Pay

My little grandchild was thrilled with her participant medal, but when she saw the champions being crowned and me being presented with something special, she asked, “Will I get a prize?” I gently explained that only three in each category can win, but there would be some lucky draw winners.

She smiled bravely and said, “I’ve had fun anyway.”
“Of course you have,” I replied, “and that’s what matters most.”
Still, I could see a tiny bit of disappointment, so I sent out positive vibes as the lucky draw prizes were announced. Prize after prize was called— my next-door neighbours each won a prize- two from the same family? How lucky is that!   Then only two were left. “Oh, please, let Mitchell be one of them.” And YES—the very last name called was Mitchell! The look of surprised delight on her face was priceless. She was over the moon.

When we got home, she opened her prize—It was not gold – it was so much better – a beautiful pink handbag, perfect for a little girl who is mad about bags, especially pink ones.  What a wonderful ending to her exciting day.

Zoetendal Academy, what an incredible event this was! The organisation was superb, the music uplifting, the food delicious, and the atmosphere simply amazing. Thank you for making this such a memorable outing for young and old alike.