Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 99, October 2017 | Page 37

Advertorial Ma Hope You Were There… Modern Athlete is partnered with various great events around South Africa, and here are a few highlights from recent events. Hopefully you were part of the fun as well. Spring Smiles and Neon Vibes The Neon Run, Johannesburg, 2 September The Jozi night was alight with colour and sound as thousands of athletes, families and music lovers gathered at St Stithians College in Sandton for the spring edition of the 5km Neon Run SA. This is rapidly becoming an SA favourite thanks to the clever combination of sizzling entertainment and a course that delights runners with its light-up activations. Entrants are encouraged to be as silly, creative and festive as possible, and the people of Jozi did not disappoint, turning up in everything from tutus to fairy wings and wigs, all in eye- catching neon. Then the crowd danced into the night to the sounds of 5FM’s Nick Hamman, Strange Loving Ft Apple Gule, DJ Abby Nurock, the Kiffness and 5FM’s Kyle Cassim. Neon Run SA creator Tavis Brown was ecstatic about the turn out, saying, “Seeing everyone dressed to thrill in their dazzling day-glo outfits was really amazing! Now keep an eye on our social media for updates on what is happening next.” Spring Welcomed with a Beat Discovery Jacaranda FM Spring Walk, Pretoria, 9 September The 6th annual Discovery Jacaranda FM Spring Walk was a resounding success as almost 9000 entrants ‘Walked to the Beat’ at the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, shaking off their winter blues in 5km, 8km and 15km walks, or the newly added 8km run for those who wanted to push their limits. With Discovery as a partner, this meant participants also earned Vitality points for their participation. After the morning’s exercise, Dewald Wasserfall and Rubber Duc rocked the crowds, while others gathered in front of the big screens to catch the rugby clash between Australia and the Springboks. There were also some celebs on hand to enjoy the day, including former Miss South Africa, Liesl Laurie; Gavin Edward and the Bulls Rugby players, who all enjoyed watching the rugby match with the crowd. And while the parents enjoyed the stellar line-up, the Spar kiddies’ area kept the little ones occupied. Oh What a Beautiful Morning Melrose Arch Spring Walk, Johannesburg, 3 September Mother Nature welcomed around 1000 walkers at the Melrose Arch Boulevard with a perfect day to take on a refreshing 5km walk around the leafy suburbs of James and Ethel Grey Park, all in order to raise funds for the local charities, Hospice Wits and the Smile Foundation. Parents were seen pushing their toddlers in their prams, while some older kids were seen dragging their parents, and many took the opportunity to take their canine companions out for a brisk walk. It was the perfect setting to enjoy fresh air exercise before enjoying that morning coffee at one of the many coffee shops in the Melrose Arch Piazza or enjoying some chill time at the Sunday Market, while the kids were able to entertain themselves in the play area. Also, Smile FM made sure that everybody was entertained with great music, and to commemorate the event, each participant was awarded with a medal as they finished – even the toddlers in their prams. All in all, a great way to start the Sunday and aid the local charities. 37