TANA MALINGA
The spirit of unity, purpose and athletic determination filled the streets of Hatfield on Sunday as the Motsepe Foundation staged the inspiring 2026 Race to Gender Equality, a vibrant public run and walk dedicated to raising awareness about closing gender gaps in society.
The event formed part of the Foundation’s celebration of a decade of advocacy through its Gender Equality, Wellness and Leadership (GEWAL) Centre, bringing together communities, athletes and change-makers under a single banner of progress.
Leading the charge were the official race ambassadors, Olympic champion Caster Semenya and social activist Qhawekazi Mazaleni, who helped amplify the powerful message behind the initiative. Mazaleni impressed on the course by completing the demanding 10km race, using her platform to inspire reflection and meaningful action against persistent societal biases.
More than 2,500 participants, men, women and children, laced up their running shoes for the occasion, demonstrating that the pursuit of gender equality is a shared responsibility that requires collective participation across society.
The competitive edge of the event added further excitement, with athletes battling for a combined prize purse of R560,000 across the 10km and 21km races. In the 21km category, winners in the open division earned R42,000 for first place, R30,000 for second, and R25,000 for third, while additional prizes rewarded outstanding performances across the 40-49, 50-59 and 60+ age groups.
The 10km race also carried substantial incentives, with the open category champion receiving R20,000, followed by R15,000 for second and R10,000 for third, alongside rewards for junior and masters divisions.
Speaking on the significance of the event, Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe highlighted the broader social impact of the initiative.
“Leadership happens at the top, but movements are sustained in society,” she said. “The Race to Gender Equality has always been about connecting those two realities.”
Beyond the finish line, the race served as a powerful reminder that sport can be a catalyst for social transformation, mobilising communities, amplifying voices and accelerating the march toward a more equal future.
PHOTOS CREDIT : INDIRECT MEDIA
