Firefighters and a Springbok Unite to Ensure They Can Keep Saving Lives!

Photo Credit: City of Cape Town via Facebook

You know South Africa is a truly amazing place when rugby players and firefighters come together to save lives! Together they are preparing to raise funds and conquer the Two Oceans Half Marathon, driven by a commitment to protecting their community from devastating fires.

Cape Town, South Africa (02 April 2025) – As though saving lives on a daily basis wasn’t praiseworthy enough, the brave firefighters of the Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS) are taking on an even greater challenge! By participating in the upcoming Two Oceans Half Marathon on 6 April, they hope to raise essential funds for a much-needed vehicle replacement.

Led by City of Cape Town firefighters Jermaine Carelse and Renaldo Duncan, this year’s challenge also features former Springbok James Dalton, who is lacing up to support VWS’ mission!

For Renaldo, taking part in the marathon for VWS was initially a challenge he felt compelled to take on back in 2017.

“I decided I wanted to run in my fire gear back in 2017 because I wanted to make the Two Oceans an extra special race for myself since it was my first-ever marathon.

“My wife thought I was crazy, my son thought I was a hero, and my daughter was somewhere in between still figuring that one out,” he shares who will also be running the marathon carrying the BA set for about two and a half hours.

Having previously served as a volunteer firefighter, Renaldo understands the sacrifices and pressures these brave heroes endure every day. This understanding is the main reason he takes on this challenge each year, which is to show his appreciation.

For former Springbok James Dalton, running this race for VWS is something he considers a privilege.

“These men and women put their lives on the line to protect our communities. If we can raise enough funds to purchase a new vehicle, it will make a real difference in their ability to respond swiftly and effectively, shares former Springbok James.

The rest of the team, which also includes fighters Liam Gannon and Thomas Lennon, has been training hard at the gym and the fire station as they prepare for the gruelling yet equally compassionate race ahead.

With over 9,498 fires recorded in just the past season, VWS urgently needs a rugged terrain vehicle to keep responding effectively.

The dedicated team appeals for R21 donations towards this cause and in support of the service of many brave men and women who don’t think twice about dropping everything when fire disasters strike.

To make a donation, visit the VWS website here.