Jacaranda FM's Spring Walk to 'kick off spring'

The routes are catered to all fitness levels, and individuals can either choose to walk or run 5km, 10km or 15km. In addition to the running experience, Discovery and Jacaranda FM will provide entertainment from some of South Africa's live stage acts. There will also be a children's area.

Those who attend are welcome to bring their own alcohol-free picnic baskets, but a variety of food and drinks stalls will also be available.

"It’s quite a sight to see thousands of people from all over Gauteng and South Africa, and all walks of life, taking to the streets of Pretoria — just as it starts to bloom with new life," says Jacaranda FM’s general manager, Kevin Fine.

"Whether you’re a more serious runner or simply there to enjoy a leisurely walk in the company of your loved ones, spend time with the Jacaranda FM family and some of your other celebrity favourites [at Spring Walk, where you'll be] treated to stellar entertainment. This [event] is the way to get your favourite part of the year off to a great start," Fine adds.

"September marks the start of spring but [it] is also Heart Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to start a simple, healthy habit like brisk walking," says Discovery’s head of experiential marketing, Iona Maclean.

"Our sponsorship of this family-friendly walk aligns with Vitality’s global commitment to make 100 million people more physically active by 2025 — a goal that’s increasingly important, given the rise in chronic diseases worldwide," Maclean adds.

"Exercise can reduce stress, give you more energy, help you sleep better and reduce your risk of heart disease — so we’re encouraging people of all ages and fitness levels to sign up for the Discovery Jacaranda Spring Walk, and enjoy this delightful outdoor event together," Maclean says.

Discovery Vitality members can claim Vitality fitness points for participating in the Spring Walk. They will earn 800 points for the 5km walk and run, 1 100 points for the 10km walk and run and 1 100 for the 15km walk.

To ensure that all participants are hydrated and safe, there will be water points every 3km on all routes, medical facilities will be available throughout and the walk will be managed in accordance with ASA and AGN rules.

The entry fee is R160, with under 16s and over 60s paying an entry fee of R110. Babies and toddlers under two years can enter for free.

For more information, visit www.springwalk.co.za. You can also follow Jacaranda FM on Facebook, Twitter, or on Instagram.