The Cape Town running community is still finding itself in a state of mourning following the death of a woman who participated in the Slave Challenge on Sunday.
The race commemorates the Mother City’s enslaved past by tracing some of the historic landmarks tied to slavery, while also appreciating the rich cultural heritage that now exists.
According to the local news broadcaster, SABC News, the woman was one of 8,000 participants who took part in the event over the weekend. Sadly, it was here that she exhaled her final breath after a tree collapsed onto her body at the Company Gardens.
The organisers of the event noted that this was an unforeseen circumstance, emphasising that all safety precautions had been taken before the event.
“We reassure the public that all safety protocols, as required by the City of Cape Town, were in place and adhered to throughout the event. This is the first such incident in the 13-year history of the Slave Route Challenge, and it is being regarded as a tragic and unforeseen occurrence,” explained race co-ordinator Zarina Meyer-Brewer.
She further added that the deceased was still alive following the incident until she later succumbed to her injuries while in the hospital.
Out of respect for the family, the lady’s identity has not been disclosed, however, event organisers kept in contact with he loved ones to offer their condolences and support.
“We honour her memory and extend our deepest condolences to her loved ones. Please join us in holding space for this immense loss,” they wrote in a statement.
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