Taalmonument the place for fun, pleasant picnics and a little sweat
Given the growing challenge to improve the quality of life of patients with life-threatening illnesses, as well as their families, it’s time to step up for a jog (or walk) in aid of the Drakenstein Palliative Hospice. In addition, many cash prizes are at stake when the fun Night Run, sponsored by the Afrikaans Language Museum and Monument (ATM), Drakenstein Palliative Hospice, Historium Trust and Paarl Athletics Club, takes place on Wednesday, 11 DECEMBER 2024, on the picturesque Paarl Mountain.
As always, participants and supporters can count on the perfect picnic and picnic spots at the monument, where temporary exhibitions as well as an adventurous playground and outdoor games beckon. In addition, everyone can explore and admire this iconic monument for one of Africa’s youngest languages for free. Make a great evening of it: bring a picnic basket (no glass) or pre-order one at the Suikerkan on 082 216 2510 (WhatsApp). This bistro will also offer refreshments and pizza for sale. Bring a blanket/cushions and torch, and dress warmly.
The 10km Night Run, which takes place in accordance with the rules of Athletics South Africa and Boland Athletics, starts at 18:45; it follows an exciting and challenging route on tarred and dirt roads. The 5km Word Run, which starts at 19:00, is aimed at the whole family – even prams and walkers are welcome! Instead of a number, participants enter with a fun Afrikaans word.
Entry fees: for 10km between R100 and R180 and for 5km R50 online via topevents.co.za before 23:59 on 4 December. PLEASE NOTE THAT ONLY ONLINE REGISTRATIONS ARE ACCEPTED AND UNFORTUNATELY NO REGISTRATIONS CAN TAKE PLACE ON THE DAY. FREE ENTRY FOR SUPPORTERS AND PARTICIPANTS OVER 70. For inquiries about the 10km Evening Race, contact Lucky Mokwena on lmokwena1@icloud.com or 084 826 5895; for inquiries about the 5km Word Run, contact Stefanie Rasztabiga via 021 872 3441 or kommunikasie@taalmuseum.co.za.
Most palliative care in South Africa is offered by private institutions. However, Drakenstein Palliative Hospice was founded as a non-governmental organisation in 1991 by a small group of volunteers to perform this community service. They care for an average of 250 patients with life-threatening illnesses in their homes and serve the entire Drakenstein district from Saron to Simondium, including all the towns, rural areas and informal settlements. Their care team ensures that patients and their families are provided with the best quality palliative care and die with dignity. The aim is to manage pain and suffering through early identification and thorough assessment, and to offer support on a physical, psychosocial and spiritual level. More information at drakensteinhospice.org.za or 021 872 4060.
- For more information on all the exciting events, concerts and courses at the Taalmonument, call 021 872 3441/863 0543, visit taalmonument.co.za or follow them on Facebook. The website also offers virtual tours of the monument and museum, information in six languages on the symbolism of the Taalmonument as well as many interesting articles on Afrikaans, multilingualism and the institution’s past, present and future. There are also numerous resources for school and research projects. Annual permits are available at only R120 for individuals or R220 per family, which includes unlimited access to the museum, monument, gardens, playgrounds, bistro and full moon picnics. The bistro offers delicious food and beautiful views daily; contact them via co.za or 082 216 2510.
