The Gratitude Run
Celebrate Heritage Day (and Braai Day) with Purpose!
This Heritage Day — Wednesday, 24 September 2025 — South Africans will be firing up the braais to celebrate their heritage, and we’re inviting you to kick off the celebrations with a heart-pumping run or walk for a great cause…The GRATITUDE Run 2025! Join D4D at the breathtaking Dornier Wines for a very special edition of The GRATITUDE Run 2025, as we not only honour our heritage, but also mark D4D’s 20th year of making a difference!
Whether you’re a serious runner or a casual walker, this event is all about gratitude, giving back and good vibes. All proceeds (after direct expenses) will go directly to D4D’s mission of supporting children’s charities such as Tzadokah Foster Home, Sylvia’s House, Kingdom Kids, Esther van Zyl Foster Care, Joya Home and many more.
So, lace up your running shoes and bring your braai spirit – and let’s make The GRATITUDE Run 2025 one to remember!
You can choose one of three ways to participate:
1) 5km FUN RUN / WALK
Young and old are invited to join in the fun! You can either choose to run or walk the 5km and set your own pace!
Online Entry Fee: R130 (Adults – 12 years & older), R70 (Children under 12 years)
Late Entry Fee: R150 (Adults – 12 years & older), R90 (Children under 12 years)
Starting Time: 08h00
2) 10km TRAIL RUN
This one is for all trail running enthusiasts. Come and experience the beautiful route and trails on Dornier Wines. It promises to be an interesting mix! No children under the age of 14, will be allowed to participate in this Trail Run.
Online Entry Fee: R210
Late Entry Fee: R230
Starting Time: 07h30
3) 20km TRAIL RUN
This one is for all trail running enthusiasts who want to go a bit further and celebrate our 20th anniversary with us. Come and experience the beautiful 10km trail route at Dornier Wines – twice! You will be doing two loops of the 10km trail, giving you two chances to take in all the beauty around you. Please note: no children under the age of 14 will be allowed to participate in this Trail Run.
Online Entry Fee: R250
Late Entry Fee: R270
Starting Time: 07h00
It is not joy that makes us GRATEFUL, it is GRATITUDE that makes us JOYFUL!
Please note that PARKING on the farm is limited. To ensure a smoother experience for everyone, we encourage carpooling or using services like Uber, to help reduce the number of vehicles on site. Thank you for your cooperation in this regard!
Watch this short video of last year’s event at Dornier Wines:
The second video is our special 20th anniversary tribute – a celebration of the journey of Distance For Difference and everyone who has been part of our story.
We hope to welcome you to The Gratitude Run community soon!
FAQ’s
Q: What is The GRATITUDE Run all about?
A: A family-friendly morning of running or walking at Dornier Wines, Stellenbosch, to celebrate good health and raise funds for several children’s charities through D4D. Every rand left after direct costs goes straight to the beneficiaries.
Q: When and where is it?
A: Heritage Day, Wednesday 24 September 2025.
Venue: Dornier Wines, Blaauwklippen Road, Stellenbosch
Q: Which distances or formats can I enter?
A:
- 5 km Fun Run/Walk (all ages)
- 10 km Trail Run (14 yrs+)
- 20 km Trail Run (14 yrs+) – Two loops of the 10 km route to celebrate D4D’s 20th anniversary.
Q: What are the entry fees?
A:
- 5 km: R130 (12 yrs+) / R70 (U12)
- 10 km Trail: R210
- 20 km Trail: R250
Q: Can I enter on the day?
A: Yes, if the event is not sold out. On-the-day entries cost an extra R20 and close 30 minutes before each start time. Cash, SnapScan and card payments are accepted.
Q: Are there age limits?
A:
- 5 km Fun Run/Walk: Open to all ages (U12 must run with an adult).
- 10 km & 20 km Trail: minimum age of 14 on race day.
Q: What time do the races start?
A:
- 20 km Trail: 07:00
- 10 km Trail: 07:30
- 5 km Fun Run/Walk: 08:00
Q: Is fundraising compulsory?
A: No, but we encourage every participant to ask friends and colleagues to sponsor their effort. We’ll email you a link to a user-friendly GivenGain page once you register.
Q: What about water, medals and prizes?
A: Two water tables will be available on the 10 km Trail Route (the 20 km route includes both). Special 60mm Bronze GRATITUDE Run Medals for the Top 10 men and women in the 10 km and 20 km Trail Runs. Top 5 men and women in the 5 km Fun Run receive the same special medal. All other finishers receive smaller medals. Special prizes for the top 3 finishers in each race. Plenty of lucky draw prizes (all entries eligible).
Q: Can I run with a pram or my dog?
A: Prams are welcome only on the 5 km route. Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed at Dornier Wines.
Q: Are entries refundable or transferable?
A: Entries are not refundable. You may transfer your entry to another runner until 14 September 2025.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Trail shoes (for 10 km and 20 km), a reusable water bottle or cup, sunblock, and plenty of good vibes and lekker spirit. There will be a variety of food and coffee stalls.
Q: Who benefits from the money raised?
A: Over 90% of funds reach South African child-focused charities such as Kingdom Kids, Little Angels, Heartlands Baby Sanctuary and others. A full beneficiary list is published each year at d4dsa.co.za.
Q: Where can I follow updates?
A:
- Facebook: facebook.com/D4DSA
- Instagram: @distance4difference
- Website: https:/www.d4dsa.co.za
Q: Where can I get more info if needed?
A: Email distance4difference@gmail.com or call Tacia Roux on +27 82 415 5595.
