SOUTHERN CAPE NEWS - The George Airport will be the presenting sponsor of the 13th Outeniqua Wheelchair Challenge (OCC), taking place on Saturday 21 February.
The airport's involvement in the OCC represents the successful collaboration of business and local government, combining efforts based on the principles of human rights, dignity and compassion to ensure that people with disabilities continue to have increased access to mobility as well as inclusivity in society.
The OCC has grown significantly since its humble beginnings in 2002, when just 27 athletes participated in a half-marathon (21km) down the Outeniqua Mountain Pass into the city of George. This year over a thousand participants from across the country and abroad will be at the starting line in York Street in front of the Mountview Resort to participate in a full 42,2km marathon, a 21,1km half-marathon, 10km race and the 5km fun event.
"George Airport is extremely proud to be associated with the OCC, working hand in hand with the George Municipality to ensure the ongoing success of the event. This is our way of bringing life to our commitment to people with disabilities," said Brenda Vorster, airport manager at the airport.
The OCC was awarded the South African Championship Status in 2006. In 2008 and 2012 the event served as a qualifying race for marathon athletes in the South African paralympic team. The event now enjoys endorsement by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) and Disability Sports South Africa (DISSA).
Last year, the 12th annual OCC saw 1 041 people with disabilities from South Africa, Britain, Germany, Zimbabwe, Australia and Ghana race in George.
Vorster said: "The OCC, sponsored by George Airport, brings satisfaction and joy to the wheelchair users, pride to the citizens of George and an opportunity for George Airport employees to bond as a unit that strengthens our comradery and improves our service delivery."
Gerrit Hendricks (left), sponsored by George Airport, with Airport Manager Brenda Vorster at the 2014 OCC. Hendricks will again be at the starting line on Saturday, 21 February.
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