"Mandela is a great icon and I am happy to help raise funds for the Centre of Memory education projects," he said. Moshiywa made history at Comrades as he broke the foreign stranglehold and won the strenuous "up" run in a time of 5:32.08. He was third in 2011 and ninth last year, but at this year's 88th Comrades Marathon he took the lead from countryman Johannes Kekana after four hours on the road, and stormed ahead to secure a momentous victory. The last South African to win the men's "up" run was Jetman Msutu in 1992. "Winning the Comrades is one of the best things that has ever happened to me," he said, "It's only sinking in now."
Joining him for the 'Relay for Mandela Day' will be fellow champion Ludwick Mamabola who last year was the first South African to win the "down" Comrades run in 7 years. Moshiywa and Mamabola will be passing the baton to past Comrades winners: Bruce Fordyce (9 times champion), Nick Bester (1991) and Frances van Blerk (1992) - an illustrious team of note and all members of the Nedbank Green Dream Team.
Dubbed a relay with a difference, the race calls for teams of ten with each team member running 6.7km, covering a total of 67km in appreciation of the 67 years that Madiba served South Africa and made our world a better place. "We will be fielding a team of five and running a double leg each," said Bester, "but although we have Claude and Ludwick, we are not going for the win - we are going to enjoy the race and support the qualities that Mandela represents. It's a great event and to run 67km - the magic number for Mr Nelson Mandela - makes us all winners together.
"It's only 6.7km to run - not very far and even if you are not very fit you can still enter as you can run or walk the distance. You will definitely not come last as there will be South Africans of all shapes and sizes participating," added Bester. "It's about taking part and enjoying a great day out."
"It would be great for all corporates to come and support this relay," concluded Moshiywa. "It's a wonderful team-building experience and perfect opportunity to celebrate Mandela and what he did for us while raising funds for literacy in this country."
To watch five greats of the running world in action, get down to Waterfall Polo Estate in Woodmead, Gauteng on Sunday 14 July 2013 and be a part of the nationwide celebrations. Proceeds from the relay will to go the Mandela Container Library project which converts old shipping containers into beautiful libraries for disadvantaged primary schools around the country. The day promises a festive vibe with a 1.67km Fun Run, kiddies' entertainment, live local music, food and refreshments and Kaya FM DJ's.
For more information go to www.kayafm.co.za.
