This Sunday, The Slave Route Challenge makes its return to the Mother City after being halted in 2020 due to the covid-19 pandemic.
The challenge will allow many Captonians to take a tour of the beautiful city with the purpose of raising awareness about the history and heritage of Cape Town.
The iconic challenge showcases the historic part of the city – which was built by those who were enslaved in Indonesia and Malaysia. This allows many residents to trace their ancestors back to this time.
The Slave Route challenge will feature several historic Cape Town landmarks along the way. The race starts at the City Hall, through District 6, Gardens, Company Gardens, Wale Street, BoKaap, DHL Stadium, Fort Wynyard, CBD, and back down Darling Street into the Castle of Good Hope and to the finish on the Grand Parade.
The race also offers several course options starting with the 5km fun run, 10km walk or run, and 21km half marathon. This is to accommodate beginners, occasional runners or walkers, and advanced runners.
“After a long hiatus, we are excited to welcome the Slave Route Challenge back to the City for its 11th edition, commemorating the heritage of Cape Town and highlighting the beauty of our city.” – the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith
Smith added that the event plays an important role in promoting cultural diversity, social cohesion, reconciliation, peace, and economic development within the Mother City.
Slave Route race road closures
For those who will not be taking part in the challenge, it’s important to note that the race will result in many road closures across the City. These include Darling Street, Lower Buitenkant Street, Sir Lowry Road, and Hanover Street with restrictions on Adderley Street, Buitengracht, and Wale Street.
A full list of road closures can be viewed here: https://bit.ly/4207y96
Runners and walkers will be treated with refreshments at the pit stop in BoKaap to enjoy a traditional Cape Malay Koesister!
We look forward to seeing all Capetonians come together and take part in honouring the city’s history and the generations that have lived before us.
READ MORE: Theatre buzz: Life & Times of Michael K returns to the Baxter!
