Joburg man will wear only a speedo in Mandela Day Run (on coldest day of the year!)

Matthew Sledge, a 51-year-old resident of Kensington, Johannesburg, is gearing up for an extraordinary challenge at the upcoming Mandela Day Houghton 10km run on July 16th.

This year’s event holds immense significance as it marks the 10th anniversary of the passing of the revered leader, Nelson Mandela. Driven by his unwavering enthusiasm to support the remarkable work of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Sledge aims to make waves with his unique fundraising efforts.

While some may perceive a 10km run as routine, Sledge has decided to take his participation to an entirely new level. In a bold and daring move, he has committed to completing the run dressed in nothing but a speedo.

What’s more, he will undertake this endeavor on what is expected to be the coldest day of the year, ensuring that his presence will be an unforgettable spectacle, capturing the attention of onlookers and inspiring them to contribute to the cause.

When asked about the inspiration behind this extraordinary campaign, Sledge expressed his deep admiration for the significance of Mandela Day and the opportunity it presents to raise funds. He revealed that the idea to don a speedo came from his partner, Belinda, who challenged him to make his participation even more memorable.

In a generous gesture, Hollard, the provider of the speedo, has pledged R10,000 to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and the Prostate Cancer Foundation in recognition of Sledge’s courageous participation.

To lend purpose to his frosty adventure and support the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Sledge has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. He is calling on individuals to sponsor his run and make donations to the Foundation.

“My passion for Mandela Day stems from honoring Nelson Mandela’s legacy and my desire to make a difference in someone else’s life,” said Matthew.

Highlighting his choice to support the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Sledge emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to education as a fundamental pillar.

Quoting Mandela, he stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Sledge hopes that the funds raised will contribute to the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to educate and empower others.

Since the launch of his BackaBuddy campaign, Matthew has raised over R22 000 towards his fundraising target of R50 000.

As the Mandela Day Houghton 10km run draws near, all eyes will be on Matthew Sledge as he fearlessly takes on the challenge in his speedo, fueled by his determination to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy and make a positive impact in the lives of others.

Supporters can contribute to Sledge’s campaign by visiting the BackaBuddy website. Additionally, Sledge extends an invitation to fellow runners to join him in supporting the Nelson Mandela Foundation by registering for the Mandela Day Houghton Run through the official website.

For more information or to support Matthew Sledge’s campaign, please visit:

BackaBuddy campaign: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/matthew-sledge-5635040553115510073

Register for the Mandela Day Houghton Run: https://www.nelsonmandela.org/activities/entry/mandela-day-houghton-run