Endurocad CEO Elana Meyer will be leading a group of 120 girls in the 5km race at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon this weekend. The group is part of Endurocad, a non-profit organization founded by Meyer and Cape Town Marathon director Janet Welham, with a focus on developing the next generation of South African athletes.
The Zebra Tribe, a group of dedicated runners, will once again be participating in the event for the fourth consecutive year. The tribe uses their participation as a platform to raise funds for Endurocad initiatives. The group was formed in 2013 and derives its name from a symbolic gesture by Meyer’s long-time running rival, Zola Budd, who presented them with miniature zebra carvings during the early days of the marathon.
The Zebra Tribe has since become a familiar sight at the marathon, with the goal of supporting South Africa’s rising stars. Elana Meyer, who won a silver medal in the 10,000m at the 1992 Olympics, is not only a figurehead for the Zebra Tribe but also an active participant. This year, she will be joined by fellow South African running icon Blanche Moila, the first black female athlete to be awarded national colours, and global business executive Rhonda Veetre in the various race categories.
However, the main focus of Endurocad remains on the youth. The ACHIEVE Pathway Programme aims to develop strong, self-sufficient young women through running and will see 120 girls participate in the 5km race. The program equips the girls with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to make a positive impact on and off the track.
Endurocad also offers an elite athlete development and educational bursary program, providing young athletes the chance to combine high-performance training with academic or vocational education. This approach has already produced a number of national representatives across various sports, with many going on to represent South Africa on the international stage.
Overall, Endurocad’s involvement in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon not only showcases the talent and dedication of its participants but also highlights the organization’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of South African athletes.
