By Cale Nuttall
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, held on the 20th of October 2024, brought together nearly 7,000 runners from all walks of life, united by their passion for running. This annual event offers an opportunity for participants to overcome personal challenges, raise funds for charities, or simply defy the odds and push their limits. Similar to marathons held in other major cities across the globe, the Cape Town Marathon is a journey of inspiring triumphs, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a first-time runner.
Charl the SPCA Power Poodle
Among the most memorable participants this year was Charl Van Rhyn, the official mascot for the SPCA at the marathon. Charl wore a "Power Poodle" suit and completed the 42.2km race to raise awareness and funds for the SPCA, representing the 23,621 stray and unwanted animals the organization cared for in the last fiscal year. A seasoned athlete, Charl’s decision to run for a charity felt natural, given his love for animals and his family’s personal connection to the cause.
“I’ve been running marathons for the last eight years, and I’ve always wanted to run for charity and raise awareness for something I’m passionate about.” Being an animal lover, running for the SPCA was an easy choice, Charl explained.
The company Charl works for recently opened their own pet stores, Western Cape PetShop Science, a partner of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA and a title sponsor for this year’s marathon, which only deepened his commitment. Despite the physical demands of the race, he finished in 4 hours and 13 minutes, including stops for photos and high-fives with spectators and fellow runners.
Charl hopes his participation highlights the critical work the SPCA does, encouraging more people to support their efforts: “With limited funding, they continue to fight for unwanted and unloved animals. We don’t all need to run a marathon in a poodle suit to help we can volunteer or donate as little as R50 to help them continue the great work they are doing.”
Defying the Odds: John Wasserfall
At 72 years old, John Wasserfall defied the odds by completing the marathon with the goal of qualifying for the Two Oceans Marathon. Finishing in just over six hours, his biggest challenge was maintaining a steady pace, but the vibrant crowd support carried him through.
“I thought the crowd support was amazing. There wasn’t 100 meters where there wasn’t,” John recalled, reflecting on how the marathon became a community effort in more ways than one.
First-Time Runners: Fezisa Ndzululeka and Nigel Augustine
First-time Cape Town Marathoner Fezisa Ndzululeka traveled all the way from East London to take part in the marathon this year, testing her limits and embracing the scenic beauty of the Mother City. “For this race, my aim was to enjoy the race, get the medal, and go home,” she said. Her simple yet profound goal reminds others that running isn’t just about speed, it’s also about personal fulfillment.
Her advice to anyone thinking about running a marathon: “The best thing to do is just start, whether it’s a 5km, 10km, or a full marathon. You have to have a mindset that says, ‘No matter what happens, I’m going to finish’.”
Nigel Augustine, a first-time marathoner, ran in honor of his niece and nephew, both of whom have autism. Despite a knee injury sustained two weeks before the race and a fall mid-race, Nigel pushed through, determined to finish. “If you know why you are running, you are going to achieve the goal.”
“The last 12km was very tough, Nigel admitted. “I put kilometers on my legs to make my legs used to it. What I incorporated in my training was strength training, I think that carried me through and the mind must be strong.” Highlighting how proper preparation and mental toughness is a prerequisite when entering a marathon.
The Cape Town Marathon continues to unite runners with diverse backgrounds and motivations. Whether it's overcoming personal challenges, supporting an NGO in need, or defying the odds, this event is a platform for stories of personal triumph. This year’s participants showed that anyone can take part in a marathon, and their stories highlight the importance of organizations like the SPCA in making a difference.
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