Discovery has launched its Vitality Run Series, a season of 16 events to get South Africans moving, and introduced a running shoe donation initiative through a government partnership.
Discovery Vitality hosted its first race in the Western Cape, the Olympic Spartan Harriers Firgrove Challenge, attended by the minister of sport, arts and culture, Gayton McKenzie, who announced the Discovery Vitality pre-loved or new running shoe donation initiative.
It will collect and distribute shoes to communities in need so more South Africans can experience the excitement and benefits of being physically active, it says.
McKenzie said: “Many people in our country do not have running shoes due to high levels of poverty. I have therefore partnered with Discovery Vitality to launch a running shoe drive.”
The initiative has an initial target of collecting 25 000 pairs of running shoes, with hopes to reach 100 000 pairs by December 2025, with the backing of McKenzie who pledged to support this goal.
South Africans who want to donate their pre-loved or new running shoes can do so at any Vitality Run Series event throughout 2025 or at a Discovery Store in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town and Durban.
Whenever I encourage ppl to train, many will point out that they don’t have running shoes, we have approached @Discovery_SA to assist. @SportArtsCultur & @Discovery_SA will collect a 100 thousand pre-loved shoes from all kind people, pls donate your extra running shoes 👟❤️🏃♂️✌🏿 pic.twitter.com/0XgqQ76U5m
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) February 3, 2025
Dinesh Govender, Discovery Vitality CEO says every pair of donated shoes represents an opportunity for someone to step into an active lifestyle.
“Working with Minister McKenzie on the Discovery Vitality running shoe initiative aligns perfectly with our goal of removing barriers to physical activity and enabling healthier communities throughout the country,” says Govender.
Dr Mosima Mabunda, Vitality’s Chief Clinical Officer, says that running is a gateway to better health. “We encourage everyone to get involved, whether by running or donating, to help make South Africans healthier.”
According to the company’s research, regular physical activity improves overall health, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and improves mental wellbeing.
The VRS schedule can be accessed here.
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