The newly formed Somerset West Run Crew has created a tiny community of avid runners, who were encouraged to come together and run as a community weekly over the past few months.
The initiative has grown to include people of all ages, sizes and fitness levels, who all share a desire to embrace a healthy lifestyle. They meet at the Bootlegger Coffee Company in Drama Street, Somerset West every Friday at 06:00 and run for about 5 km.
“This event aims to get people together, build a healthy lifestyle and support seasoned runners as well as those doing it for fun,” said the event founder and Somerset West local for the past five years, James David Khaly.
He explained that as an enthusiastic long-distance runner he was passionate about winning and doing good for his own self, until he felt in his heart to use his gift to empower the community and the people around him.
“I decided to take a risk to print flyers and hand it out for a weekly running activity around my neighbourhood, inviting people for a run and coffee afterwards.
“Somerset West is a place where people live their own lifestyle in their little corners, but my desire was to see people doing life together and supporting one another.”
He called it the “Somerset West Run Crew” and started with just a few interested runners in February, but group has grown “so much with the support of Bootlegger Coffee Company” and now boasts more than 120 members on the WhatsApp group and, consistently, more than 30 members pitch up for the weekly runs.
“Our goal is to get more than 100 people weekly on the road, running and moving their mind and body. Our 10 km runs will start in summer.
“We welcome everyone. You don’t have to be fit or fast, just come as you are – you can only get better by practicing and moving your mind” he encouraged.
Khaly said they have reached out to a few brands for sponsorships and are really looking forward to partnering with them. The sponsors will be revealed soon.
“And we now have our crew T-shirt that was powered by the Bootlegger logo, so it’s really working out. And we welcome new members; joining our run crew isn’t just about logging miles, it’s about joining a supportive community that cheers you on every step of the way. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, you’ll find camaraderie, motivation, and a shared passion for running that will elevate your experience and help you achieve your goals together.”
To get in touch with Khaly to know more about the run and joining its crew, phone 081 528 8996.
