An athletics club based in Muizenberg is encouraging fitness in surrounding communities, inviting the public to join it, also seeing it as a source of upliftment for the youth and development of local talent.
The Zandvlei Athletics Club (ZAC), born from a clear need, is open to both serious and leisure runners as well as walkers, said its chair Waleed Allie.
“The founders envisioned a club that would welcome people of all levels and interests. We have a strong focus on youth from disadvantaged backgrounds. The club especially targets school-going runners aged roughly eight to 18 years, many hailing from under-resourced areas such as Vrygrond, Lavender Hill, Cafda, and Steenberg. The club, though the youngest in the Western Province Athletics’ circuit, consistently fields the largest number of juniors in cross–country league series and Little Athletics events.”
Allie described ZAC as being more than just a sports organisation.
“It stands as a community-driven, youth-focused club that aims to make athletics accessible to young people, who may otherwise be excluded due to socio-economic barriers. Its dual emphasis on serious sport and community inclusion showcases how sport can be a powerful tool for empowerment and social upliftment.”
Currently the club is promoting its annual Couch to 10km programme, which is aimed at getting beginners up and moving, both physically and mentally.
“This initiative is more than just a fitness programme,” Allie said. “It’s a community-driven journey to better health, personal growth and mental resilience. Designed specifically for first-time runners and those looking to return to fitness, the 10-week programme gradually builds stamina, strength and confidence. Runners meet three times a week in the parking lot opposite contemporary Christian community radio station CCFM. Sessions include walking, jogging stretching and indeed motivational group support. No-one gets left behind; it’s not about speed, but consistency, connection and feeling good in your own body.”
The 10 km walk also focuses on the mental benefits of regular movement besides just the “physical gains”.
The group runs on the day include mindfulness techniques, breathwork and post-run reflection sessions.
“We want to make movement feel joyful and achievable,” said Allie. “This is about more than kilometres. It’s about reclaiming your health with others by your side. The Couch to 10 km programme will culminate in a celebratory community run at the Mitchells Plain Titans 10 km event this November, open to all residents and local families.”
The club is also in need of assistance to help fund their programmes.
“Our objective is to increase visibility and attract new members and sponsors who can assist our outreach programmes. We would also like the opportunity of a feature event where ZAC showcases its role in the local community where we are restoring lives in the form of health, perseverance and inclusivity. We are hoping to lean on local media platforms who are serving Cape Town communities as a powerful tool to promote the club, its members, and the very exciting ZAC Boyes Drive Classic 15 km race taking place on Sunday 30 November.”
For more information contact Allie at awa1805@gmail.com or on 082 493 2266.
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