Hey, runners and community supporters! I’m Ethan Bain, one of the founders of Vin.yards4Cancer Run Crew, and I’m excited to share how this journey began and what it’s all about.
From a Bet to a Movement
It all started as a playful challenge between seven housemates. We dared each other to complete the Cape Town Marathon. But this challenge soon transformed into something much more meaningful when one of our housemates was diagnosed with cancer. We knew we had to do something bigger—to run for a purpose close to our hearts. That’s how our mission to support childhood cancer began.
Running With Purpose
Vineyards Run Crew runs for those who can’t. Our friend’s battle inspired us to dedicate our efforts to raising awareness and funds for children fighting cancer. Every kilometer we cover is about making a difference in their lives. What started as a friendly bet has grown into a passion-driven journey to support a cause that means the world to us.
The Commitment That Drives Us
Training with a purpose in mind keeps us going. It’s not about being professional runners (because trust us, we’re not!). It’s about showing up, pushing through, and reminding ourselves of the bigger picture: helping kids who face struggles far greater than running 42 kilometers. Our mantra? For those who can’t. It keeps us motivated every single day.
As university students, juggling studies and training isn’t easy, but we make it work. Weekends and evenings are our go-to for runs, and sticking together as a team helps us stay accountable. Our advice? Keep your goals in mind, plan your training, and run with a group—it makes all the difference.
Why Social Running Clubs Are Thriving
There’s been a huge shift toward social running clubs among young adults, and we’re proud to be part of that movement. These clubs aren’t about competition; they’re about community. They give you the flexibility to balance fitness with fun, creating an environment where everyone is welcome, no matter your pace. Social media platforms like Strava and Instagram have made it easier than ever to connect, track progress, and share our journey with a wider audience.
Our Training & How You Can Join Us
We’ve followed a 12-week training plan, running 4-5 times a week to prep for the marathon. Our weekday runs are shorter, ranging from 5km to 12km, and weekends are reserved for the long ones—21km or more, depending on how ambitious we’re feeling. It’s challenging, but the support from our community keeps us going.
Want to be part of the crew? We’d love to have you! Find us on Instagram or Strava under Vin.yards4Cancer and join us for a run. Together, we’re making every step count—for our friend, for children battling cancer, and for the joy of running.