The Discovery Vitality Run Series (VRS) is officially underway, following a successful first event, the Olympic Spartan Harriers Firgrove Challenge with Discovery Vitality, held in the Western Cape. The race saw thousands of runners take to the streets this past weekend, marking the start of an exciting season of 16 events designed to get South Africans moving.
This year’s launch was attended by the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting physical activity for all South Africans. In an inspiring address, the Minister announced the Discovery Vitality pre-loved or new running shoe donation initiative - to collect and distribute shoes to communities in need, ensuring that more South Africans partake in the excitement and benefits of being physically active.
Minister Gayton 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.”
With an initial target of 25,000 pairs of running shoes, Minister McKenzie has pledged his support to help push the goal to an ambitious 100,000 pairs by December 2025. South Africans can contribute by donating their pre-loved or new running shoes at any Vitality Run Series event throughout the year or Discovery Stores nationwide (Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria and Johannesburg).
Dinesh Govender, CEO of Discovery Vitality, welcomed the initiative, saying: " Every pair of donated shoes represents an opportunity for someone to step into an active lifestyle. The Discovery Vitality Run Series is about making running accessible and fun for everyone, so this initiative is a natural extension of our core purpose. 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.”
Since its inception, the Vitality Run Series has provided a platform for runners and walkers of all levels to participate in well-organised races across the country. Whether experienced runners chasing personal bests or beginners taking their first steps towards a healthier lifestyle, the series offers a welcoming and supportive environment.
"Running is a gateway to better health, and the Vitality Run Series has proven this year after year,” Dr Mosima Mabunda, Vitality’s Chief Clinical Officer, said. “Seeing government support for the initiative is incredibly motivating. We encourage everyone to get involved, whether by running or donating, to help make South Africans healthier."
At its core, the Vitality Run Series is about getting South Africans active. Discovery Vitality’s research shows that regular physical activity improves overall health, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and improves mental wellbeing. Through initiatives like this, Discovery Vitality continues to drive its mission of making South Africans healthier - one run, one race, and now, one running shoe donation at a time.
Join a Vitality Run Series event near you and be part of the movement towards a healthier South Africa. See the full schedule here: https://www.discovery.co.za/vitality/vitality-run-series-2025
For more detail on Discovery stores: https://www.discovery.co.za/corporate/discovery-store
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