Some Words About Us

Running with Purpose

Since our founding in 1998, Jacaranda Athletics Club (JAC) has been more than just a running group—it’s a family united by a shared love for running and community. 

We love what we do

At JAC, running is more than a sport—it’s a way of life. We’re passionate about empowering runners to achieve their best while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Our working process

We listen to our members and continuously adapt to their needs, creating a club that’s welcoming and inclusive. From structured training programs to fun runs and competitive events, we cater to every level of runner.

Run. Connect. Shop. Thrive.

About JAC

Empowering Runners, Inspiring Communities

Founded in 1998, *Jacaranda Athletics Club (JAC)* was born from the passion of a group of avid runners in Pretoria who, after regularly meeting for social runs over the weekends, decided to form their own running club. The founding members—runners with a wealth of experience in events like the Comrades Marathon and Two Oceans—include Haroon Abramjee, Cassim Kharbai, Ahmed Sooliman, Pravin Dullabh, and Mukhtar Mohamed. Today, the club continues to thrive under the leadership of current chairperson, Cassim Kharbai.

The name "Jacaranda" was inspired during one of their training runs, reflecting the club's vibrant, community-driven ethos. Originally founded by a group of runners with an average age of over 30, the club has grown and evolved, with its membership base now spanning a wide range of ages. While the club's core remains rooted in its founding members, its vision of becoming a second home for runners of all levels has gained renewed momentum in recent years.

Proudly sponsored by A.B. Carrim from K. Carrim Builders & Hardware, JAC is committed to fostering a love for running in people of all ages. Carrim's support is instrumental in helping the club grow and attract more young runners to the sport. Over the years, Jacaranda Athletics has remained a symbol of unity, bringing together individuals from all walks of life through the shared joy of running.

Mission Statement

At Jacaranda Athletics Club, our mission is to promote and celebrate the sport of running by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for runners of all ages and abilities. We strive to inspire individuals to achieve their personal goals, while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Through training, races, and social events, we aim to make running accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful for everyone, from beginners to seasoned athletes.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to be a thriving hub for runners in Pretoria and beyond, where people from all backgrounds come together to train, compete, and grow in the sport of running. We aspire to cultivate a culture of wellness, teamwork, and perseverance, while fostering the next generation of runners to embrace the challenges and joys of the sport.

JAC's Core Values

Run beyond limits, live beyond boundaries. Jacaranda Athletics Club helps runners push their boundaries in a welcoming environment.

Community

We believe in the power of bringing people together. JAC is more than just a club; it’s a family where runners of all levels support each other, share experiences, and celebrate each other’s successes.

Integrity

We are committed to honesty, fairness, and transparency in everything we do. We uphold the values of sportsmanship and respect both on and off the track.

Inclusivity

We welcome runners from all walks of life and strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to pursue their running goals.

Excellence

We strive for continuous improvement, both individually and as a club. Whether you’re training for your first 5K or your 10th marathon, we encourage all members to push their limits and strive for personal bests.

Passion for Running

Running is at the heart of who we are. We are driven by a shared passion for the sport and its ability to transform lives, both physically and mentally.

Sustainability

We are dedicated to promoting a healthy, sustainable lifestyle through running and fostering an environment where the well-being of our members and the planet is always prioritized.

Youth Development

Through our partnerships and sponsorships, we are committed to introducing more young people to the sport, offering them the opportunity to discover the joys of running while building skills that last a lifetime.