KDL boys paint Mzansi purple

King David High School Linksfield boys ran through Johannesburg in purple Speedos on 15 October to raise funds for prostate and testicular cancer awareness and screening.

What started 12 years ago with one brave soul running through peak hour traffic in a Speedo to raise awareness about cancer, has become a nationwide phenomenon in which runners take part dressed only in a purple Speedo.

Usually held as a mass participation event in Johannesburg, last Friday was the first ever COVID-19-edition Hollard Daredevil Run 2021 to take place around the country, which meant smaller groups and more social distancing.

“Since 2009, the Hollard Daredevil Run has attracting thousands of brave men from all walks of life to do their part to raise awareness about male cancers,” said Heidi Brauer, chief marketing officer at Hollard.

“It takes courage to strip down to a Speedo and run in public – but that’s the whole idea,” she says. “The Hollard Daredevil Run challenges South African men to confront male cancers head-on by showing that they’re not afraid to run in a Speedo, not afraid to talk about cancer, and not afraid to get checked.”

Prostate cancer is the most common male cancer. According to global research, one in every six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, with the risk of prostate cancer increasing with age. Early diagnosis can mean a 95% chance of being cured.

The uptake by so many high schools and universities this year reinforced the power of young men rallying together to spread important cancer awareness messaging. This is particularly relevant given that testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men aged between 15 to 39, and can affect men of all races. The survival rate of Stage 1 testicular cancer can be as high as 100%, making early detection and prompt action vital.

All proceeds from the run go to the Cancer Association of South Africa and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa.

To donate further funds towards cancer awareness and screening initiatives, go to www.daredevilrun.com.