The George Municipality takes pride in its association with the 18th annual Outeniqua Chair Challenge (OCC) which took place on Saturday (15 February 2020).
In addition to a substantial financial contribution, municipal staff and councillors were involved in everything from major logistical support to pushing wheelchairs.
George Executive Deputy Mayor Charlotte Clarke said the OCC was an inspiring event that showcased the heart of the George community and its inherent compassion for the disabled. “While we are always proud of the top national and international athletes this event attracts, we love the spirit of the 5km fun ride in which able-bodied people push the chairs of nearly 800 disabled people who are just enthralled by the fun and excitement.
“It is an extraordinary event in which disabled people, and those who love and support them, get an opportunity to celebrate life and be inspired. The George Municipality is blessed to be part of this event and hopes to remain involved indefinitely.
“We have many dreams for our city to become more than just the host of the wheelchair race, and we are working towards a sports festival for people of all kinds of disabilities,” said Ms Clarke.
More than 1000 disabled people participated in this year’s event, including top international stars such as Ernst van Dyk, Pieter du Preez and Stuart McCreadie, young and upcoming star Zach Legward and well-known RSG radio personality Martelize Brink. The race also had some international flavour with athletes from Namibia, Zimbabwe and Ghana.
Pictures by Desmond and Athane Sholtz
