Sascha-Lee Joseph
The City of Johannesburg is set to showcase its dynamic energy with an action-packed weekend of exciting events, highlighting its top-tier infrastructure and rich cultural diversity, while prioritising the safety of residents and visitors.
The city’s Director of Events Management, Bongi Mokaba, says the Soweto Walk for Life will launch the festivities, taking place on Saturday, 5 October, from 06:00 to 14:00 at the Soweto Theatre. Now in its fifth year, the Soweto Walk for Life offers a 5km walk, 8km run, 8km walk, and a Kidz Dash. It promotes health and wellness while celebrating the vibrant culture of Soweto.
The second event, a brand-new partnership approved by the City of Johannesburg’s Mayoral Committee, is the Red Bull Showrun Joburg, happening on Sunday, 6 October 2024, from 13:00 to 16:00 on Katherine Street in Sandton, South Africa’s financial capital.
“This is a momentous occasion as Johannesburg becomes the fourth city globally to host this thrilling event, which features the iconic Red Bull F1 car,” says Mokaba.
She adds that these events exemplify Johannesburg’s capability to host large-scale occasions while maximising its existing infrastructure.
“We’re reimagining how we use our roads — hosting a walk in Soweto, a cycling event in Braamfontein and an F1 race in Sandton — demonstrating the city’s versatility and commitment to diverse events,” Mokaba adds.
Also on the agenda for Sunday is the Transport Month Ride Safety Awareness event at Braam Park, which promotes road safety, particularly for cyclists. This initiative educates participants on safe riding practices and the importance of sharing the road responsibly.
Mokaba underscores the city’s diversity: “You can’t label Johannesburg as one type of city—it’s a melting pot that embraces various sporting codes. These upcoming events highlight our ability to cater to a range of interests, from health and wellness to motorsport and cycling, showing that Joburg is not just a hub for traditional sports but a place where every passion can thrive.”
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) is working closely with the City’s events management team to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
JMPD Superintendent Xolani Fihla says the City of Johannesburg is not only putting its best foot forward but also its best wheels, showcasing the city’s capacity to host events that engage the community and promote well-being.
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
