Notties100 2025: A Triumph of Courage and Compassion in Nottingham Road KZN

Commencing 14h00, September 5 and ending at 14h00, September 6, 2025, the rolling hills of Nottingham Road, KwaZulu-Natal, bore witness to an extraordinary display of human spirit at the second annual Notties100 endurance event, organized by Breaking the Darkness in support of Unchain Our Children’s counter-human trafficking initiatives.  Saturday, 19 people crossed the finish line and received medals for completing the full 100 km – 3 cyclists, 2 runners and 14 walkers were applauded as they were welcomed back.

Over 100 remarkable individuals, from age 11 to 75, laced up their shoes, mounted their bikes, or set out on foot to conquer distances of 25km, 50km, 75km, or the grueling full 100km within a 24-hour window

United by a shared purpose, these athletes ran, walked, and cycled not only to test their physical limits but to amplify the fight against human trafficking through Unchain Our Children’s counter-trafficking initiatives.

A Tapestry of Resilience

Under vast blue skies by day and shimmering moonlit stars by night, participants pushed through weary bodies, blistered feet, and aching muscles. Age was no barrier—each step forward was a testament to the indomitable strength of the human spirit. From young dreamers to seasoned warriors, their collective resolve shone brighter than the physical toll of the challenge.

Aid stations at the 25km, 50km and 75km points brimming with food, water, and encouragement, alongside dedicated marshals, provided unwavering support, ensuring every participant could focus on their mission.

One long-distance athlete captured the essence of this resilience, declaring, “When I can’t run, I’ll walk, and if I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. As long as I’m moving, I’m moving forward.” This mantra echoed across the event, as participants refused to yield to fatigue, their determination a powerful symbol of hope and defiance.

A Stand Against Injustice

Beyond the physical feat, the Notties100 was a profound act of solidarity. Participants paused at candlelit ceremonies to reflect, pray, and leave personalized notes of support for victims of human trafficking.

These heartfelt messages, illuminated by flickering flames, stood as a poignant reminder of the event’s deeper purpose: to shine a light on those held in captivity and to fuel Unchain Our Children’s mission to combat human trafficking. Each kilometer covered was a step toward freedom, each note a voice for the voiceless.

A Legacy of Courage

The Notties100 was more than an endurance event—it was a celebration of courage, compassion, and community. These 100-plus athletes, with their sweat-soaked brows and unyielding spirits, demonstrated that true strength lies not just in physical prowess but in the heart’s commitment to a cause greater than oneself.

Remembering Notties100 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yyL1wssEtYg

Their efforts have left an indelible mark on Nottingham Road and beyond, inspiring others to join the fight against human trafficking and proving that together, we can break the darkness.

We invite people across South Africa to join the Notties100 2026 and be part of this powerful movement for change. Keep an eye on Breaking The Darkness website where further announcements will be made - https://breakingthedarkness.co.za/ 

Wayne van Onselen, Founder and Executive Director of Unchain Our Children expressed his immense gratitude towards the organizers, support crew and sponsors:

Chris Dykes and Natasha Kirchmann, Founders of Breaking The Darkness and their Team, Amy and Travis Arnold from Unchain Our Children for her incredible planning and overall management of the event, Brandon Harris, from Bidvest McCarthy for the Nissan support vehicles, Clive Foss and his staff of Nottingham Road Hotel, Janet and Sean from Molweni Kamberg Valley Bed & Breakfast, Don Robertson from Grindstone Pizza, Cohen and Lungi from Daymed EMS Ambulance Services, Balid Security, Key Electric Wholesalers, Out of Africa Group, The Promac Paints Team (Rubber Duck), Run Collective, Mardine and Michael Tyson from EZCLICK for marketing and drone video of event, Alpine Motor Group’s Dealer representative, Pedro Knoop from Chery Pinetown for a support vehicle and Hyundai Pinetown for a support vehicle, Evergreens Staff for oranges and water donation

“Not only are your contributions and support valued beyond measure but your presence added to the impact of Notties100 2025.  We are looking forward to enjoying Notties100 2026 with you next year”, Wayne said.

Sponsor Support