The Phoenix 10km: Running in the Footsteps of History
Wednesday 4 December 2024, I joined a small but vibrant group of runners for the Phoenix 10km, aptly themed the Emancipation of Enslaved People.
Hosted by the Phoenix Athletics Club, this race was more than just a test of endurance. It was a journey through the layered history of Cape Town, starting at the Castle of Good Hope—a site steeped in the legacy of slavery at the Cape.
While the race itself was a physical challenge, particularly with a hilly first 5km, it was also an emotional and reflective experience. As I paced myself through the inclines, I thought about the historical context of the route and the significance of running in celebration of emancipation.
A Race Rooted In History
The Phoenix 10km isn’t just about personal bests or finishing medals; it’s a tribute to the resilience of enslaved people and their descendants.
The setting wasn’t chosen by chance. The Castle of Good Hope, where the race began, was once a symbol of oppression and colonial dominance. Built by the Dutch East India Company in the late 1600s, it served as a military fort and administrative center. Over the centuries, it became a place where enslaved people were imprisoned, punished, and sold.
The legacy of slavery in Cape Town runs deep. Between the mid-17th and early 19th centuries, tens of thousands of enslaved people from Africa, India, Madagascar, and Southeast Asia were brought to the Cape. They toiled on farms, built infrastructure, and served in colonial households. Their cultural and spiritual contributions are woven into the fabric of modern South Africa, but the scars of that era remain.
Phoenix Athletics Club
The Phoenix Athletics Club embodies the spirit of resilience and transformation.
Like the mythical phoenix rising from ashes, it symbolizes rebirth, renewal, and triumph over adversity. Many of the club’s members are descendants of enslaved people, and their mission extends beyond running. Phoenix AC fosters community, encourages healthy living, and ensures that history is remembered through events like the Phoenix 10km.
The club is rooted in Cape Town’s diverse communities and is a testament to how sport can bring people together. Through events like this, they not only celebrate the progress made since the abolition of slavery but also highlight the ongoing challenges of inequality and the importance of collective memory.
The Route: A Hilly Journey Through Time
The race began with a buzz of excitement opposite the Castle of Good Hope, an imposing structure now serving as a museum and cultural hub.
Standing at the starting line, it was impossible not to feel the weight of history. As the whistle blew and we surged forward, the race quickly became a test of both physical and mental stamina.
The first 5km were a tough climb, with steep hills winding through the city. While challenging, the inclines offered breathtaking views of Cape Town and Table Mountain, a poignant reminder of the landscape enslaved people once worked on. Every step felt significant—running on roads that were likely traveled by enslaved individuals centuries ago was both humbling and inspiring.
The second half of the race eased into more manageable terrain, allowing runners to pick up the pace. The atmosphere was electric, with supporters cheering us on, music playing at key points, and water stations manned by enthusiastic volunteers. Despite its smaller size, the race had a big heart.
The Castle of Good Hope: From Oppression to Empowerment
The Castle of Good Hope has undergone a transformation in recent years. Once a place where enslaved people were held and punished, it now serves as a space for reflection, education, and empowerment. It hosts exhibitions, performances, and events that honor the history and contributions of enslaved people and their descendants.
One of the most powerful aspects of this transformation is how the descendants of those who once suffered within its walls are reclaiming the space. The castle is now a platform for art, culture, and storytelling.
It’s a place where ancestors are honored, and their resilience celebrated. Running from the castle as part of this race felt like a full-circle moment—a declaration that the legacy of slavery will not be forgotten but will instead fuel progress and unity.
The Legacy Of Slavery
The legacy of slavery at the Cape is multifaceted. On one hand, it’s a painful history of exploitation and suffering. On the other, it’s a story of survival, resistance, and cultural fusion. Enslaved people brought with them languages, religions, and traditions that have shaped Cape Town’s identity. The Cape Malay cuisine, for instance, is a direct result of this cultural blending.
However, the shadow of slavery persists in modern-day inequalities. Many descendants of enslaved people still face economic and social challenges. Events like the Phoenix 10km serve as a reminder of the progress made and the work still to be done. They inspire conversations about reconciliation, restitution, and the importance of remembering history.
A Small but Vibrant Event
While the race was modest (by Cape Town road running standards) in terms of participant numbers, it was brimming with energy. The camaraderie among runners was palpable, and the support from the community was heartwarming. From the spirited cheers of bystanders to the enthusiastic volunteers handing out water, every element of the event contributed to its unique vibe.
The finish line, back at the castle, was a celebration of endurance and resilience. Runners exchanged high-fives, posed for photos, and shared stories of their experience on the course. It was a reminder that even small events can have a big impact, fostering community spirit and honoring history in meaningful ways.
Reflecting on the Experience
As I crossed the finish line, I felt a mix of emotions—pride in completing the challenging course, gratitude for the opportunity to participate, and a deep sense of connection to the history the race commemorates. The Phoenix 10km is more than a run; it’s a tribute to those who endured unimaginable hardships and a celebration of their descendants who continue to rise and thrive.
Cape Town’s history is complex and often painful, but events like this remind us of the power of resilience and the importance of remembering the past. Running through the city, with its stunning landscapes and rich history, was a profound experience.
I left the event with tired legs but a full heart, grateful for the opportunity to honor the legacy of those who came before us and to celebrate the progress we’ve made as a society. The Phoenix 10km isn’t just a race—it’s a journey through history, a call to remember, and a celebration of resilience.
Thanks
This race has set the tone for what I hope will be a year filled with meaningful runs that go beyond the physical, connecting us to history, community, and the shared human spirit.
For anyone looking to combine fitness with reflection, I highly recommend lacing up for the Phoenix 10km next year.
Thank you Phoenix AC.
Photo credits:
Shuyb Hendricks of ABPhotoZA for the generous use of his photographs that always capture the essence of running in Cape Town.