Runners and hikers ascend Platteklip Gorge, Table Mountain not just for personal endurance, but for a greater community cause, in the annual Cableway Charity Challenge.
Image: Supplied
Charity Challenge Medal
Image: Image: Supplied
Hundreds of runners, hikers, supporters and spectators came together for the annual Cableway Charity Challenge event on Table Mountain at the weekend.
While final fundraising totals are still being calculated as pledges continue to come in, the event has already raised a preliminary amount of more than R964 000, with proceeds set to benefit four organisations: SANParks Honorary Rangers, Ubuntu Football Academy, Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS) and Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR).
The event once again highlighted the incredible spirit of Cape Town’s outdoor enthusiasts and generosity, with participants taking on the challenge in support of causes that continue to make a meaningful impact across the city.
“This event is about more than just crossing a finish line,” said Wahida Parker, Managing Director at the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC). “It’s about having a shared goal and a deep sense of wanting to make a difference. We are incredibly grateful to every participant, donor, volunteer and supporter who showed up and contributed.”
Organisers confirmed that fundraising will remain open until May 17, allowing supporters additional time to make contributions and help increase the final amount raised. The official handover of funds to the beneficiary organisations is expected to take place before the end of May.
Each finisher received a medal made from the retired track rope cable once used by TMACC. The rope operated for more than 20 years, transporting millions of visitors up and down Table Mountain, before being removed during the 2024 annual maintenance shutdown.
Competition on the mountain was fierce, with top honours going to:
At just 17 years old, George Nuttall equalled last year’s Cableway Charity Challenge top achievement (set by Vincent Buter and AJ Calitz) by completing nine laps of the course.
This year’s event also celebrated several remarkable individual achievements, including Achmat Jackson completing his 15th Cableway Charity Challenge. AJ Calitz also delivered an exceptional performance by completing the fastest lap of the challenge in just 41 minutes and 33 seconds.
For more information, visit: https://charitychallenge.co.za/