Underprivileged runners get London Marathon shot
- By Jack Preston -
- Jan 09, 2013
As part of their on-going commitment to create meaningful change in the lives of South Africans, Virgin Money South Africa has decided to arrange for three lucky residents to take part in this year’s Virgin London Marathon.
The initiative, which is being delivered with Runner’s World Magazine, has seen three talented athletes, hand-picked from underprivileged communities, given the chance to perform in one of the world’s leading long distance races.
“The change that can come about as a result of an event like this is momentous, and we really wanted to play our part in extending this goodwill on a local level,” explained Heidie Aitken, Brand Manager of Virgin Money to Sport 24.
“Rather than running a lucky draw style competition as we did in 2011, we decided to embrace the essence of the event this year, and offer opportunities to those who might never have been able to participate otherwise.”
The three runners selected to make the trip to London are Khubulani Zondo, John Persents and Meshack Ndhlovu. The athletes, who will spend a total of four days in the English capital, were chosen on the strength of their written motivations.
The initiative is also being supported by adidas, who will supply the competitors with running kits, while Virgin Active South Africa have offered them complimentary three month memberships for training purposes.
For all the latest news on the race, head over to the Virgin London Marathon website.
By Jack Preston. Senior Content Executive. Tweets at @JackPressedOn
