For the third year running, people have chosen to lace up their shoes, push their limits, and run with purpose in support of the Thula Baba Project.
What began as a single fundraising effort has grown into our Running to Equip Mothers initiative: a community of individuals using their passion for sport to raise awareness and funds for under-resourced mothers and babies across Cape Town.
This season, we witnessed two incredible fundraising challenges.
On 26 April 2026, Robert and three colleagues from Brave Media took on an extraordinary Doorstep Ironman challenge. In a completely self-supported event on open roads, they completed a 3.8km open water swim, 180km cycle, and a 42.2km run – all in a single day! They organised every aspect of the event themselves and raised R20 000 for Thula Baba Project.
Then on 23 and 24 May, the streets and trails of Cape Town came alive during the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon weekend. Through Running to Equip Mothers, Nicolaas, Shona and Rozanne ran with purpose, raising R15 000 to support mothers and babies in our communities.
Together, these remarkable individuals raised over R35 000 in support of the Thula Baba Project.
What makes these efforts so meaningful is that every kilometre run, every donation received, and every conversation started contributes to a larger purpose.
At Thula Baba Project, we see every day how important support is during the early days of motherhood.
When mothers are equipped with knowledge, practical resources, and emotional support they are better able to nurture and bond with their babies, laying the foundation for healtheir families and brighter futures.
Another highlight of the marathon weekend was seeing marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge in Cape Town. His presence reminded us of the incredible power of sport to inspire, connect people from different backgrounds, and show us what is possible when we commit to somthing bigger than ourselves.
As we reflect on these events, we feel deeply grateful to the:
- runners who chose to run with purpose
- donors who believe in our mission
- community that continues to show up for mothers and babies that need support.
The finish lines may have been crossed, but the impact continues… As we look ahead to the Nelson Mandela Marathon in October, we hope to gather an even bigger team of runners who are willing to run with purpose.
Whether you an experienced marathoner, a casual runner, or simply someone who wants to make a difference we’d love to have you run alongside us.
Because every step taken in support of mothers and babies helps create a stronger start for the next generation.
With gratitude <3 The Thula Baba Project Team