Every marathon Siya Mfanta has run since last year has been a heartfelt mission to champion the welfare of Cape Town’s working horses and donkeys. He’s now getting ready to hit the 42.2km Cape Town Marathon because for him it’s about keeping the momentum going so that these animals don’t have to suffer.
Cape Town, South Africa (18 September 2025) – Ever since Siya Mfanta discovered that his love for long-distance running could be used as a force for good, there has been no stopping him!
The dedicated harness maker at the Cart Horse Protection Association (CHPA) has participated in several running events since his first Cape Town Marathon last year, conquering the Comrades and the Towns Oceans in 2025 to support the animals he works with.
With every kilometre he’s run and every rand he’s raised, Siya has been able to support the invaluable work CHPA does to champion the welfare of working horses and donkeys in the Cape Flats.
Day after day, rain or shine, working horses in Cape Town pull carts to help their owners earn a living. They don’t get to stop when they’re tired. They don’t get to rest when they’re sore. But thanks to CHPA, these unsung heroes receive the care, love, and protection they so desperately need.
Siya has witnessed firsthand the incredible work the organisation does; rescuing neglected horses, providing vet care, supplying feed, fitting shoes, educating owners, and standing up for the voiceless. That is why he’s lacing up once again to take on the 2025 Cape Town Marathon.
“This is bigger than running,” Siya says.
“I run so they don’t have to suffer. I run because they can’t.”
CHPA is amazed by Siya’s growth and progress over the past year. They are currently supporting him and seeking sponsors to provide new running shoes, gus, socks, and other running gear.
To sponsor this runner with heart for horses, please email karin@carthorse.org.za or visit Siya’s GivenGain crowdfunding page to make a donation.
Sources: Cart Horse Protection Association
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