- The 13 Peaks Challenge, held on 13 October, saw athletes raise over R45,000 for various charities through their endurance efforts.
- Participants, including Didier de Villiers and Simoné Fuls, tackled the challenging route while fundraising for causes they care about.
- Donations are still open, and the event continues to inspire athletes to support local charitable initiatives.
The Mindset Movement’s 13 Peaks Challenge took place on Monday 13 October, a physically demanding endurance event in Newlands that successfully raised over R45 000 for a range of charities, with donations still open. Participants tackled the iconic 13 Peaks route while raising funds for various non profit organisations, all supported through the global fundraising platform, GivenGain.
The event saw athletes such as Didier de Villiers, Simoné Fuls and Kai Forster take on the challenge with personal and charitable goals in mind. De Villiers, representing the Evelina Tshabalala Foundation, had to stop his run 186 km into the challenge due to a knee injury but remained positive about his effort. “I didn’t achieve what I wanted to, but I put myself out there and tried my hardest,” he said. “This ultra thing is truly a team sport, and I am grateful for all the support.” De Villiers encouraged the public to continue supporting the foundation through his fundraising link.
More than a hobby
Simoné Fuls, who ran the 13 Peaks over three days for the organisation Great Girls, spoke of the lessons she had gained from both running and being part of a supportive community.
“Running has become more than a hobby; it’s a way to grow myself mentally. I’m inspired by @greatgirlsct and their work empowering young women in Cape Town to develop the skills they need to succeed.”
Kai Forster, who ran the 13 Peaks in one attempt to raise funds for iKhaya le Themba Project, described the experience as one of the most significant days of his life. “The support and encouragement I received were deeply humbling. I encourage everyone to go after something big that matters to them.”
The funds raised will help the charities cover ongoing operational costs and continue their work within local communities. GivenGain, the platform hosting the event’s fundraising efforts, provides a global reach, allowing non profits and fundraisers to leverage mass-participation events such as this to gather donations.
Looking ahead, the Mindset Movement plans to continue inspiring endurance athletes to use their feats as opportunities to support charitable organisations in South Africa. With donations still open, members of the public are encouraged to contribute to the cause through the official fundraising page at GivenGain.
