The KFC IRONMAN 4 the Kidz Charity launch was held on Monday 11 March at the Garden Court Hotel in Port Elizabeth. Hosted by Garth Wright, trustee and co-founder of the Charity, this event served to inform the public of the heart and hopes of the Charity for 2013.
Other trustees present included co-founder Gary Stephenson; trustee Thuli Mtila; Managing Director of World Endurance South Africa, Keith Bowler, and Spec-Savers IRONMAN South Africa Race Director, Paul Wolff.
Present on behalf of the Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay was the Chairperson of Sport, Councillor Babalwa Lobishe. Among other guests present were Algoa FM Marketing Manager, Toinette Koumpan; Vodacom Managing Executive, Carol Hall; Vodacom Marketing, Manager Ncamile Toni, and Managing Director of Buffken (KFC), Daryl McWilliams.
With their motto, “Anything is possible”, Wright shared the Charity’s message of love, hope and care, hope is the most important. “There’s no life less lived than a life without hope”, said Wright.
In 2005 founders Wright and Stephenson decided that they could raise support by racing in the Spec-Savers IRONMAN South Africa. Their first goal, consisting of raising R11, 000 for the Eastern Province Child and Youth Care Centre, has lead to a constant and steady annual increase, as well as strengthened support from sponsors, athletes and the public.
With a strong desire to make a difference, trustees Wright and Stephenson are once again registered and preparing for the Spec-Savers IRONMAN South Africa taking place on Sunday 14 April 2013 at Port Elizabeth’s Hobie Beach.
In addition to effectively using the money raised each year to change the children’s lives, the Charity also presents a win-win scenario to the sponsors, organizers and athletes involved within the Spec-Savers IRONMAN South Africa.
This year, the Charity has set a target of R1.6 Million and is hoping to benefit 12 different children’s charities. Each year, companies are encouraged to sponsor athletes wishing to take part in the Spec-Savers IRONMAN South Africa. These athletes sport a bright orange race vest in the colour of the Charity, to increase awareness and stand out amongst the crowds of athletes on race day. This year, former Proteas fast bowler André Nel will be racing in the Spec-Savers IRONMAN South Africa for the first time, in charity colours.
Bowler thanked the sponsors and spoke of how this year marks the fourth consecutive year that the Pritt IRONKIDS South Africa race has sold out. At least R100 000 is raised by this event, including a further nearly R100 000 that was raised at this year’s IRONMAN 70.3 South Africa through the Vodacom ‘Track-an-Athlete’ SMS service. “There are not many sporting events that raise that kind of money for charity”, Bowler said.
Councillor Lobishe spoke of how the role of sport in society can bring discipline. “We are able to nurture kids; to tell them it’s good to grow up and be a responsible adult”. Lobishe applauded the Charity for their outstanding work, as well as the sponsors who are on board. “We have a huge task ahead of us”, she said, addressing the need of managing our society and bridging the gap. “Without love, we won’t be able to reach a more stable society”.
To date, the KFC IRONMAN 4 the Kidz Charity has raised R5 010 000, and despite being very aware of the difficult economic climate, has high hopes for what 2013 will bring.
Those who share this same heart for the kids and who would like to give a donation to be a part of this worthy cause can visit www.ironman4thekidz.co.za.
There is no limit to a donation’s amount and all donations and contributions received will be accumulated and added to assist the trust in reaching their goal of R1.6 Million for 2013. The IRONMAN 4 the Kidz Charity Trust is automatically defined as being a level 4 BEE contributor with all the beneficiaries they support falling within the requirements of the BBBEE codes of good practice.
Alan Straton
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