Jeffreys Bay is once again a parkrun town! After a hiatus, the beloved free, weekly 5km community event has returned, finding a new home at the picturesque Mentors Country Estate. The inaugural run on Saturday, August 16, 2025, marked a new chapter for the local running and walking community, drawing a crowd of enthusiastic participants and volunteers.
The launch was made extra special with the attendance of South African running legend and parkrun advocate, Bruce Fordyce, who flew in to officially open the event. Fordyce, a nine-time Comrades Marathon champion, is a key figure in bringing parkrun to South Africa, and his presence underscored the significance of the event's return to Jeffreys Bay.
The new Mentors Country Estate parkrun offers a unique and scenic two-lap course that winds through a mixture of gravel and trail paths on the estate's beautiful grounds. The route, which has been professionally measured to 5km, provides a welcoming experience for everyone, from competitive runners aiming for a new personal best to families enjoying a leisurely morning stroll. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are also welcome to join in the fun.
Event director Bobby Hamman expressed his excitement about having parkrun back in J-Bay, highlighting the event's inclusive and community-focused nature. The Mentors team has worked closely with parkrun organizers to ensure the course meets all safety and quality standards, and the estate manager, Willie Koertzen, noted that the venue is delighted to give back to the community with this new offering.
Following the run or walk, participants are encouraged to stay and enjoy a coffee and light breakfast at the Mentors Kiosk, making it a perfect social start to the weekend. The event is entirely organized by a team of dedicated local volunteers, and they are always looking for more helpers to join the crew, from marshals and timekeepers to photographers.
The new Mentors Country Estate parkrun is a testament to the community spirit of Jeffreys Bay. It's more than just a 5k; it's a weekly gathering that promotes health, friendship, and a love for the outdoors. All you need to do to join is register once on the parkrun website, print your barcode, and show up every Saturday at 8:00 am ready to walk, jog, or run. Just remember the parkrun motto: "No barcode, no time!"
