A woman has died after a tree unexpectedly fell in the Company’s Garden in Cape Town during the 13th annual Slave Route Challenge. She was one of 8,000 participants in the race, which pays tribute to the city’s enslaved past by tracing historic sites tied to slavery.
Organizers confirmed that all safety and security protocols had been observed in collaboration with the City of Cape Town and emergency services. The incident has been described as a tragic and unforeseeable accident, and the steering committee is working closely with authorities to understand what happened.
Race director Zarina Meyer Brewer emphasized the event’s role in showcasing Cape Town’s deep-rooted history and honouring those who built the city under slavery. The route includes key landmarks such as the Bo-Kaap, the Slave Lodge, and the Castle of Good Hope.
“The slave run showcases the people who built Cape Town. We want to show residents that our culture is our history,” Brewer says.
The event is seen as one of the most unique on Cape Town’s running calendar. Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews noted its importance in reminding South Africans of their painful past and ongoing journey toward unity and democracy.
“It reminds us of our checkered past and the role we play in becoming a rainbow nation,” Andrews says.
Participants also shared their emotional experiences, describing the race as a powerful way to connect with history and take pride in South Africa’s cultural heritage. Many expressed a sense of reflection and gratitude for being part of the event.
All runners received medals featuring the vibrant homes of Bo-Kaap and free entry to the Castle of Good Hope throughout June to further engage with its historical significance.
