More than 4,000 people gathered at Zoo Lake in Johannesburg on Friday for the Hollard Dare Devil Run, marking the largest turnout in the event’s 17-year history.
The annual initiative raises awareness of testicular and prostate cancer, with participants wearing purple Speedos during the 5km run to draw attention to men’s health.
Adele Kriel, head of experiential marketing at Hollard South Africa, told TimesLIVE that organisers had estimated a turnout of just over 4,000 people.
She said the event had recorded its biggest attendance since it began 17 years ago. More than 351 runs were also held across the country as part of the wider campaign.
Organisers Aim to Encourage Conversations About Men’s Health
Kriel said the event was designed to encourage men to speak more openly about their health and feel comfortable discussing testicular and prostate cancer.
She explained that the distinctive clothing was intended to attract attention and prompt conversations about conditions that men may find difficult to discuss.
The campaign supports the Cancer Association of South Africa and the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Funds raised help the organisations promote cancer awareness and provide health education, particularly in communities with limited access to medical information.
Kriel said participants continued to bring friends and colleagues to the event because they wanted to contribute to the cause.
Participants Share Personal Reasons for Taking Part
Several runners said their participation was motivated by personal experiences with cancer and a desire to support awareness efforts.
Kaih Mokoka said he joined the initiative to honour his mother, who had cancer when he was younger.
He said he wanted to help raise awareness and pay tribute to his mother and other people affected by the disease.
Mangaliso Sikhosana said he took part to support cancer awareness in the community while exercising and meeting other people.
Daniel Morris also cited the experiences of people close to him who had suffered from cancer. He said he wanted to encourage people to undergo medical checks and understand the importance of early detection.
Runners Call for Healthier Lifestyles
Roberto Orlando said the event highlighted the need for men to take their health seriously and make healthier lifestyle choices.
He encouraged people to focus on their wellbeing and use exercise as part of maintaining a healthier life.
Participants of different ages joined the Johannesburg run, with the event combining physical activity and public awareness efforts.
Campaign Seeks to Reduce Stigma Around Men’s Cancers
The Hollard Dare Devil Run uses its unusual dress code and public participation to draw attention to prostate and testicular cancer.
Organisers aim to reduce the stigma surrounding men’s health and encourage men to seek reliable information, discuss their concerns and undergo medical checks when necessary.
The initiative also supports awareness and education programmes through its beneficiary organisations, the Cancer Association of South Africa and the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
