More than a finish line: A run for hope, health and humanity
From competitive runners chasing personal bests to toddlers in strollers and seniors pacing themselves with smiles, the event was a masterclass in social cohesion.
The streets of Chatsworth were transformed into a vibrant sea of energy, hope, and determination on Youth Day as the Fieldshill Water Athletic Club hosted its highly anticipated annual 5km Fun Run and Walk.
Under the banner, ‘Take it in our stride’, the day brought together an extraordinary mix of families, fitness enthusiasts, and corporate citizens.
From competitive runners chasing personal bests to toddlers in strollers and seniors pacing themselves with smiles, the event was a masterclass in social cohesion.
Beyond the fitness and camaraderie, the heartbeat of this year’s event was its deep commitment to charity. All proceeds from the day are being channelled directly into supporting two pillars of local community service, namely the Chatsworth Hospice and the Rotary High Noon Club.
Reflecting on the overwhelming turnout, Fieldshill Water Athletic Club’s chairman, Vikesh Parshad, expressed profound gratitude for the community’s generosity.
“We are deeply privileged to use this event to give back directly to the Chatsworth Hospice and the Rotary High Noon Club – two institutions that perform monumental work in caregiving and community service. Seeing people show up today proves that when we run together, we lift the entire community together. This isn’t just a race; it’s a collective heartbeat,” Parshad said.
Vice chairman, Sagren Naidoo, echoed these sentiments, praising the resilience and unity of the participants.
“The energy today was electric. By taking this event in our stride, our community has shown that no challenge is too great when we move in unison. We are immensely proud of every runner, walker, and volunteer who made this day a historic success for Fieldshill,” Naidoo said.
While the sheer number of participants was inspiring, it was the story of one local family that truly captured the soul of the event, turning the pavement into a platform for women’s empowerment.
ALSO READ: Durban SPAR Women’s Challenge delivers thrilling racing and community spirit
Three generations of women from the same family stood side-by-side at the starting line, proving that strength, resilience, and health are the ultimate family heirlooms.
Representing the youth was Lakshana Moodliar, a bright high school student from Silverglen who won the female category. Running alongside her was her proud mother, Shivani Moodliar, a dedicated professional in the field of medical technology, and grandmother, Kamla Moodley, a well-known community figure who serves as the PRO for the Chatsworth Bowling Club.
For Moodley, completing the 5km alongside her daughter and granddaughter carried a message far deeper than personal fitness. She dedicated their relentless ‘never give up’ attitude to women who are currently surviving or have been affected by GBV.
With South Africa approaching Women’s Month in August, Moodley used the platform to issue a stirring call to action.
“Our attitude not to give up is dedicated to other women who experience GBV. As we approach Women’s Month, we cannot wait for a calendar date to speak out. We should campaign for awareness and observe the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign every single day,” said Moodley.
The Fieldshill Water Athletic Club has long been a champion of inclusivity, particularly through its dedicated development club, which actively supports and nurtures women’s participation in sports.
