One of the main complaints of people living in cities is that it is so easy to pass each other and that there’s little to no time to do things together.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. Just ask the Bedeker family, Ettienne, Jolanda and Lea. Running is their way of doing things together as a family. Next Wednesday (September 9) they’ll be taking part in the Sappi Tuks Night Race. It’s certainly not every day that a Matie student travels 1500km to take part in a Tuks race. But for 19-year-old Lea, it’s worth it to spend time with “Dad and Mom”.
Mom, Jolanda, is the instigator when it comes to running.
“What I love about running is that you are outside in nature. When you run, your body gets a chance to build up some Vitamin D. When I run, it feels like I am clearing my head. I get new perspectives on things. It is much better than always just training in a gym between four walls.
“My husband, Ettiene, is a natural. For long periods, he won’t run at all. Then suddenly he drops in next to me to run, and he keeps up. Sometimes it is hard not to be jealous of how easily he gets back into running. The goal is to try and do at least one race as a family each month.”
Listening to the Bedeker’s story, one can’t help but wonder how many other families will line up next Wednesday to do the Sappi Tuks Night Race. One thing is for sure: it will be a unique running experience. Those who have participated in a night race will know you experience a greater sense of freedom when running at night. Those who want to chase a fast time over 10 kilometres won’t be disappointed. The route lends itself to setting personal best times.
For Tuks students, there is certainly good reason to race. Sappi has announced that 20 students who enter will receive a R4500 bursary to support their academic journey. (T’s and C’s apply). This initiative, valued at R90 000, forms part of Sappi’s 90th birthday celebrations.
