The much anticipated 2019 EWASA Championship Endurance Walk was hosted for the first time in Gansbaai over the weekend on 7 and 8 March 2019.
More than 30 teams from police departments across the country took part in this two-day 75km endurance walk. On the first day participants walked 40km and they second day they walk 35km. Participating SAPS teams were joined by school teams such as Laerskool Okkie Smuts from Stanford and Towerkop Primêr from Ladismith.
Various activities included static displays by Special Forces and sporting events such as soccer and netball. Visitors were entertained by die police band and salls from the area provided mouth-watering snacks and meals.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony at Gansbaai Academia.
Overstrand Municipality Executive Mayor Dudley Coetzee said it was an honour that the Overstrand, and Gansbaai specifically, was chosen to host this event. “Even more so since I believe it is the first time another venue was considered, other than Mossel Bay where it’s been held for the past 20 years.”
2019 EWASA Championship Endurance Walk kicks-off to resounding start
He thanked participants, the organisers, the sponsors and all concerned for collectively ensuring the successful delivery of the 2019 EWASA Championship.
Addressing the Overberg Police Cluster, who organised the event, Mayor Coetzee said “I, for one, appreciate the great contribution this showcase has made in casting the spotlight on endurance sport and the significant role it can play in the development of the human spirit, and society as a whole.”
“It has also been a wonderful opportunity to grow the sport and attract even bigger crowds to similar gatherings in the future.”
He continued by saying it is encouraging to see that SAPS used this championship as a platform to raise funds for the ongoing development of the sport and the clubs competing under the SAPS EWASA umbrella. “It is testimony that you, and many others, are truly committed towards ensuring a better and brighter future for the people of our country.”
“In much the same way, the Overstrand Municipality focuses much of its efforts on effecting positive change and fostering social cohesion through community upliftment projects such as this.”
Mayor Coetzee concluded by saying “may I wish you all the very best in the road ahead. May it be paved with many more success stories and may you reach even greater heights. Thank you to each and everyone for sharing in this occasion. I hope you will leave as enriched as I am by the experience.”
Image: In the EWASA Championship Endurance Walk 2019, the Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre finished first in the women’s division. Pictured with them are (left) EWASA President Mr Filanie, SAPS Head: Human Resource Development Brigadier Kotzé, and (far right) SAPS Deputy Provincial Commissioner Major General Mzamani and Mayor Dudley Coetzee
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