Ipeleng Khunou, Hezekiel Sepeng, Siv Ngesi, Janine van Wyk, Charne Bosman and more join the challenge for Mandela Day

Affectionately known as ‘CrazyLegs’, Ipeleng Khunou, who famously competed in the Two Oceans on crutches, has put his weight behind the ‘67 Kilometres for Mandela Day’ virtual race and has challenged colleagues in the sporting and entertainment world to do the same.

So far, former Olympian Hezekiel Sepeng, comedian Siv Ngesi, Banyana Banyana captain Janine van Wyk, former South African cricketer JP Duminy, Comrades 2019 winner Edward Mothobi, sports anchors Lebo Motsoeli and OG Molefe, and former Comrades winner Charne Bosman have heeded the call.

The virtual race, which is raising funds for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (the Fund) ahead of Mandela Day, invites walkers, cyclists and runners to join the virtual event online from anywhere in the world to make a huge difference to the children of South Africa.

The challenge can be completed anytime between today and the 18^th July when Mandela Day is acknowledged. This year also celebrates the 25^th year that the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund has been in existence.

Nomthi Mnisi, Director of Communications and Marketing at the Fund said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Ipeleng and team have joined us in what is the inaugural virtual event for Mandela Day. There is a nominal fee of R250 which will go a long way in supporting the children of South Africa in need.”

In 2018, Khunou participated in the Virgin British 10 KM in London in support of the Fund. He says, “Madiba’s message was always centred on giving of one’s self and being of service to our society. This was an opportunity for me to once again support the work of the Fund and I encourage everyone to make this their cause this Mandela Day.”

Participants can log onto the dedicated virtual event software online at www.vfcseriescom – create a profile and link their smart devices. Daily data uploads are plotted on the virtual route, over-laid into a Google Street view so they can see how they are comparing to other ‘racers’ in the same event – real time.

Exercise data linked to all major smart devices are supported with the virtual race app available in Android and Apple stores.

Join the 67 Kilometres for Mandela Day Facebook group or follow #67km4MandelaDay.