the importance of a vibe!

On Sunday 9 February, my running club, Jeppe Quondam, hosted its annual marathon. It’s a big day in our club’s calendar and has really grown over the years. This marathon kicks off the Balwin Sports marathon series, followed by the Peninsula, Pretoria, and Dolphin Coast Marathons—all Comrades qualifiers!

But what truly makes this marathon special isn’t just the race itself. It’s the incredible people behind the scenes—the ones organising, managing, and pouring their heart and soul into making sure everything runs smoothly. From getting the race started on time to keeping things on track along the route, these are the real heroes of the day!

Anyone who’s ever run a marathon knows that hydration stations are a must. But they’re not just about providing water. A lively water station, filled with upbeat volunteers, pumping music, and excited spectators, can seriously boost a runner’s energy. It’s not just about quenching thirst; it’s about giving runners the pick-me-up they need to keep going.

Runners often talk about hitting “the wall”—that point where fatigue, both mental and physical, makes each step feel like a mountain. But when they reach a water station buzzing with energy, it can be a game-changer. The cheers, the music, the camaraderie—it’s like a second wind that pushes you through those tough moments.

And let’s not forget the last water point (where I may have been stationed), just 3km from the finish line, was the final boost some runners didn’t know they needed—or the one they definitely did. We were the VIP lounge of hydration stations—just with a lot more sweat and a lot less champagne.

The vibe of a race can be a great metaphor for pushing through life. In a race, you have moments of exhaustion, doubt, and struggle, but what keeps you going is the energy around you—the crowd, the volunteers, the runners, and that sense of purpose pushing you forward. Life can feel similar, with its own challenges and “walls”, but just like in a race, the vibe you surround yourself with can make all the difference. Whether it’s the support of friends and family, a sense of personal motivation, or simply remembering why you started, harnessing that energy—whether from others or within yourself—helps you keep moving forward.

Just like a marathon, life is about pacing yourself, staying resilient through the tough times, and embracing the boosts, big or small. And always remember—it’s not just the finish line that counts, but the vibe along the way!

If you’re a runner and a fan of wine – and if you happen to find yourself in the Cape Winelands on 1 March – please join CN&CO and EasyEquities at the mini-Médoc 8k wine run in Stellenbosch! See details below: