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GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - This past Saturday, 15 September, people from all walks of life came together to honour cancer survivors, raise awareness about reducing cancer risk, and raise money to bring hope to cancer patients.
The Tracks4Cancer initiative challenged all residents of Graaff-Reinet to participate in a fun morning in aid of the Graaff-Reinet Cancer Association, by either walking, running, cycling or driving a designated route through the Camdeboo National Park.
All this was the dream of local cancer survivor Johann Sparrius.
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Months of planning on his part led to no less than than 337 locals pitching up on the day to show their support.
No entry fee was charged at any of the starting points, but those participating were urged to make a donation towards the local cancer association.
And donate they surely did. Apart from a generous R20 000 donation received from the Stretch Foundation, the participating Graaff-Reinetters donated a staggering R21 840 towards the coffers of this association.
The most popular event, the 5km fun walk/run starting at the park's Ganalaagte entrance, drew a total of 109 entries, with three of the youngest participants accompanying their mothers in strollers.
The 1.5km event for wheelchair athletes, which started at the park's Valley entrance, had 13 entrants and the 3km event for preschoolers and their parents saw 54 entries.
The 11km walk, run or cycle event had 63 participants, while 26 mountain bikers took on the 45km trail starting at the park's Impangele entrance.
Twenty-three bikers participated in the event for motorcycles, while 19 off-road bikes and fourteen 4x4 vehicles tackled the Driekoppen adventure trail.
Even Graaff-Reinet's vintage car enthusiasts got in on the action with 14 classic cars and their drivers showing their support for the initiative by participating in the event.
"The Tracks4Cancer initiative was a big gamble with a 'can we do it?' question attached to it," says organiser Johann Sparrius. "This past Saturday the town proved that we can do it!"
"We are immensely pleased with the turnout of the event and so grateful for each and everyone who showed their support. I am truly thankful and proud to be a part of this town."
The organisers hope to make this event an annual occurrence on the Graaff-Reinet calendar.
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