In support of Prostate and Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, thousands of runners nationwide participated in the Hollard Daredevil Run. The 5km race, in its 15th year, took place on Friday,1 November. An estimated 6000 runners nationwide were dressed in purple speedos.
In KwaZulu-Natal, races took place in Durban North, Ballito, Umhlanga, North Beach, Pinetown, Hilton, Nottingham Road and the Midlands.
Representing the Regent Harriers Running Club and running in the Durban North Race, Luc Quevauvilliers said that although he was pensive about running in a speedo, he was excited to run with a group of guys aiming to raise awareness for a common cause. He added that this event also helped his mood as it was a social event and not a competition.
“I’m glad we are all becoming more aware of men’s health. Too often, we struggle in silence and events like this are a great way to get guys out there together in a good positive way, teaching us we can all benefit from being uncomfortable together and still be fine,” he said.
Quevauvilliers shared that 50 club representatives took part in the race on Friday morning and their nerves disappeared as they knew they were running for a good cause.
Head of Brand and Communications at Hollard Alistair Khanyi, said, “By supporting the Hollard Daredevil Run, you are helping to raise funds to broaden education and access to testing in under-resourced communities, while spreading awareness that early detection of prostate and testicular cancer saves lives. Hollard calls on individuals, corporates, schools, tertiary educational institutions, sports clubs and communities to rally behind this worthy cause by entering this year’s event. Together, let’s support those previously unsupported through their cancer journey.”
Khanyi added that by shining a light on men’s health, Hollard is enabling men to take control of their future well-being.
Hollard shared that this initiative, which started 15 years ago, aimed to raise funds for the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa to be used for testing in under-resourced areas and increase awareness, support and research.
Prostate cancer will affect one in six men in their lifetime, and by 2030, it is expected to be the most common cancer among men in South Africa. Black African men face a 60% higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to other population groups. The survival rate in men whose prostate cancer is detected early enough is 95%. Although less common, testicular cancer remains the leading cancer among young men aged 15 to 35, impacting about 1 in 250 males. If treated early, the cure rate rises for testicular cancer can be as high as 98%.
Khanyi thanked all the brave participants of the 2024 Hollard Daredevil Run and said that together, a meaningful impact is being made in the fight against prostate and testicular cancer.
