Hope springs eternal at the 2011 KFC Ironman 4 the Kidz Charity Trust launch

The 2011 KFC Ironman 4 the Kidz Charity Trust launch took place at the Eastern Province Child and Youth Care Centre on Wednesday 2 March 2011 underlining their objectives for this year. Representatives from the various beneficiaries and the Spec-Savers Ironman South Africa organisers were also at the event.

One of most eagerly anticipated events on the Nelson Mandela Bay calendar, the Spec-Savers Ironman South Africa weekend, is almost upon us and as we have become accustomed to, the esteemed Charity Trust, founded by Garth Wright and Gary Stephenson, once again aims to build on its past successes.

The Trust started back in 2005 with Wright and Stephenson managing to raise R11 000 in their first year. Last year saw the Trust reach unprecedented heights by achieving their target of R1 million. This initiative continues to push the boundaries by setting themselves a target of R1.2 million for 2011.

Garth Wright paid special tribute to all contributors and sponsors namely, KFC, Software AG, Barloworld Equipment, Sasol and Megapro. The invaluable contribution of the Spec-Savers Ironman South Africa and Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa and its side events, Iron Girl South Africa, the Pritt Ironkids and the Vodacom Corporate Triathlon Challenge powered by Algoa FM was also emphasised.

Speaking at the launch, Wright was positive that their target can be achieved through a combination of hard work from dedicated individuals and athletes, the unwavering support of sponsors and the mission to improve the lives of less fortunate children.

The Trust aims to achieve their target through a combined effort from the Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa, the Spec-Savers Ironman South Africa and its side events. This year saw 31 athletes compete under the banner of the Trust at the Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa, raising R160 000. The first Iron Girl South Africa Fun Run also took place in East London and assisted in achieving the overall goal of the Trust by raising R2500.

Each year, a large number of charities benefit from the funds raised throughout the year by the Trust. For 2011, the 10 beneficiaries include:

• The Eastern Province Child and Youth Care Centre
• The Khayalethu Youth Centre
• The Children’s Haven MTR Smit
• Sabrina Love Foundation
• Salem Baby Centre
• Enkanzimulweni Ncedani
• Robin Good Foundation
• We Care Outreach Initiative
• Oosterland Foundation
• Lelethu Baby Shelter

Regarding their involvement and dedication to the Trust, Wright said that “the kids who need love, hope and care, is motivation enough”.

“The Spec-Savers Ironman South Africa is important to the city as it is in the position to benefit the community. It is a life changing event and we want to make it a life changing event for the children,” added Wright.

“The bottom line is that we want to leave something more than cash behind.” Wright emphasised that the Charity not only focuses on the funds, but specifically wants the children to realise that if they put their minds to something and work hard, it can be achieved.

The KCF Ironman 4 the Kidz Charity Trust continues to enrich the lives of less fortunate children throughout children’s homes in the Eastern Cape and the invaluable efforts of these dedicated people do not go unnoticed.

Look out for the athletes in orange at the Spec-Savers Ironman South Africa on Sunday the 10th of April 2011 as they go out there and do it for the Kidz!

For more information contact Julia Banache at julia@ironman4thekidz.co.za or 041 581 7990

Author: Alessandra Esterhuyse