ATHLETICS CLUB MEMBERS PROMOTE HEALTHY LIVING THROUGH RUNNING

By Sipho Ncube

• Employee wellness in action: Gauteng Department of Social Development Athletics Club (GDSDAC) staff are actively embracing physical fitness as part of a healthy work-life balance.
• Club members demonstrated dedication, goal-setting and measurable performance improvement.
• The initiative underscores the Department’s belief that employee wellbeing contributes to a more productive and resilient organisation.

Members of the Gauteng Department of Social Development Athletics Club (GDSDAC) recently showcased their commitment to staff wellness and active living by participating in the annual Wonderpark Akasia Road Race in Pretoria.
Approximately 12 club members competed across multiple distances, including the 42.2km marathon, 21.1km half-marathon, 10km and 5km races. The event, which started and finished at Wonderpark Shopping Mall, attracted runners from across the province and offered an inclusive platform for athletes of varying abilities and fitness levels.
A standout performance on the day came from Welly Mahlabela, a GDSDAC member from the Northern Corridor (Fedsure Building), who completed the 42.2km marathon in an impressive time of 3 hours and 42 minutes.
“I’m thrilled that I managed to reach my target,” said Mahlabela. “Last year, I ran the same race and finished in 4 hours and 34 minutes, which qualified me for the Two Oceans Marathon. This year, my goal was to improve on that time, and I’m proud of the progress.”
Mahlabela added that his focus now shifts to upcoming races, including the Cosmo 3-in-1 and Loskop races in March and April, respectively, as part of his preparation for the Comrades Marathon in June.
Another inspiring performance came from Themba Mugwandani of the Southern Corridor Regional Office, who marked his 52nd birthday by taking part in the race.
“This race felt special because it took place on my birthday,” Mugwandani said. “My goal for this year is to complete at least two full marathons.”
Mugwandani shared that he integrates training into his daily routine, often running from his home in Dube Village, Soweto, to his office in Johannesburg, a distance of approximately 17 kilometres, at least twice a week. “I also train whenever I get the opportunity,” he added.
The participation of GDSDAC members in events such as the Wonderpark Akasia Road Race reflects the Department’s continued promotion of employee wellness, physical fitness and work-life balance. Through initiatives that encourage healthy lifestyles, the Department reinforces the link between employee wellbeing and effective, sustainable service delivery.