On a cold and wet morning, Maggie Jasson and Florrie Makaku from the North-West University (NWU) hit the streets of Cape Town for the Totalsports Women's Race.  

Maggie, an administrative assistant in the Faculty of Education at the NWU's Potchefstroom Campus, has always loved sports. Her running journey started well before she joined the Promosa Athletic Club in 2018. "I was running alone before I joined the club," Maggie recalls. "I started running because I love sports. It's great for my health, and I discovered that I enjoy long-distance running more than short sprints." 

For Maggie, running isn't just about staying fit; it's about keeping a healthy mindset. "When I don't run, my body feels weak, and I get frustrated. Running helps my mindset and health, making me feel more energetic." She says she approaches each race with a simple goal: to finish what she started. "Winning isn't the goal; it's about enjoying the journey. I see older runners finishing the race for fun, not for any prize. But at the end of each race, I get a medal, which motivates me." 

Florrie, a senior administrative officer, also from the Faculty of Education, has been running for quite some time. Every step she takes renews her sense of purpose. "Knowing that I'm getting older every minute drives me to do more," Florrie says. Her best moments are when she crosses the finish line, realising she's accomplished something she once thought impossible. "You realise you've done it, even when it felt like no end was in sight." 

For Florrie, running isn't just about physical fitness; it's about maintaining balance in life. "An active lifestyle is essential, especially as we get older. It helps with fatigue, improves breathing, boosts blood flow, lowers heart rate, and decreases blood pressure. All of this makes daily life easier and more fulfilling." 

Even when challenges seem overwhelming, she finds strength in a small voice that tells her to keep going. "Sometimes I want to give up, but that little voice whispers, 'These things keep you going, push through.'" 

For Maggie and Florrie, who are also part of the NWU's staff netball team, the Totalsports Women's Race was more than just a competition; it celebrated health, balance, and the joy of running. As they crossed the finish line, they completed a race and showed the power of committing to a healthier, more balanced life. Their stories remind us that pursuing health and happiness is always worth the effort, no matter our age or the challenges we face. 

Florrie Makaku

Maggie Jasson