27 FOR FREEDOM RACE
It is that time of the year again, when the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) and the World commemorates the release of Nelson Mandela from prison.
In this regard, the “Walk to Freedom” race in honour of our struggle icon is to take place at Drakenstein Correctional Facility, previously known as Victor Verster Prison, on Saturday, 10 February 2024.
Following months of gruelling training, the National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Thobakgale
is ready to show hundreds of runners a clean pair of heels.
Dubbed as the acquittal and prestigious race, this annual race is where professional runners and families in general, gather to honour South Africas’ greatest struggle icon, Tata Madiba.
It is a unique opportunity for both young and old to emulate his footsteps – “Walk to Freedom”, as he spent 27 years of his life behind bars.
Due to its family orientation setup, the race is demarcated into various categories due to start at different
times:
• Main race: 27km – starting time 06h30
• 10km – starting time 07h00
• 5km Freedom Route Run / Walk – starting time 08h30
While running/walking to honour Madiba, participants will along the route pass through three beacons on their
way to the finish point which are:
• The Mandela House – where Madiba spent his last months in prison prior to his release;
• The Mandela Avenue – the very road that he travelled on the day of his release and made that
revered walk to freedom; and lastly
• Mandela Statue.
This event will massively exhibit and remind all nations around the World the art of reconciliation and working
together towards a common cause.
Members of the media are invited to cover the race as follows:
Date : Saturday, 10 February 2024
Venue : Drakenstein Correctional Facility
Time : 06h00
Visit www.topevents.co.za for more details
