Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 161 September 2023 | Page 37

ADVERTORIAL

Time to Save the

Avocados

A new documentary introduces the misguided man who earned a running sponsorship from one of South Africa ’ s biggest corporates by trying to save avocados !

Johannesburg runner Jerry Mntonga has been featured in a new short-form documentary showcasing his efforts to # Run4Avos and get South Africans following in his running steps . The # Run4Avos short film documents his efforts and reasoning behind his newfound love for the avocado , after having run for numerous causes , including rhinos , hope , vitality , city parks and even bears .

Most runners will identify with Jerry in his quest to run for good , with numerous races and events around the country advocating for causes and worthy fundraising initiatives . However , not many will have run for avocados , or as Jerry puts it , ‘ Avocacy .’
“ You must run to change the world , make an impact , run to save something . One step at a time , one cause at a time , one chafe cream at a time ,” explains Jerry in the film .
Inspiring Message
While Avocado ’ s definitely don ’ t need saving , Jerry ’ s willpower and passion for using running for good cannot be faulted – something that was noticed by the country ’ s leading running fraternity , The Nedbank Running Club . “ Jerry ’ s enthusiasm should be inspiring to all . While his cause may have been slightly misguided , his drive and enthusiasm cannot be faulted – something we can all learn from ,” says Nthabiseng Matshekga , Nedbank Executive Head of Group Marketing .
“ The Nedbank Running Club is more than just a club . Our aim is to get all South Africans of all ages and backgrounds involved in running . This is why Nedbank wanted to come onboard and help Jerry channel his enthusiasm into getting more South Africans running ,” she adds .
Nedbank has even pledged to reward everyone who joins Jerry ’ s cause with a voucher for their aptly named Avo SuperShop . ( Click the link to find out more .) “ There was an obvious fit , so we decided to help Jerry turn # Run4Avos into something South Africa can really get behind , by rewarding them for participating . It ’ s now an initiative both Jerry and Nedbank can be truly proud of , and we urge everyone ,
whether you ’ re a runner or not , to join in and earn a Avo SuperShop voucher ,” continues Matshekga .
Find out More & Sign Up
You can find out more about Jerry ’ s quest to # Run4Avos on Strava and social media , and you can watch the documentary , which explains Jerry ’ s goal and why he is running for avocados . Even better , you can join Jerry in his quest to # Run4Avos and be rewarded for your running ( not to save fruit ) – simply check out his Strava challenge and join in the fun .
37