Durban athletic club completes 43,548km Around the World challenge two months early

Updated April 8, 2026, 10:37 a.m. | By Danny Guselli

A running club in Durban set out to circle the globe on foot. They did it two months early. This is what community looks like in motion.

Fieldshill Water Athletic Club (FWAC), based in Umhlatuzana, Chatsworth, has completed its "Around the World" Club Challenge, clocking 43,548 kilometres against a target of 40,000 kilometres, the approximate distance around the earth. The goal was to cover that distance within 12 months. The club surpassed it by the end of March 2026, two months ahead of schedule.

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What was the challenge?

The challenge required members to collectively accumulate 40,000 kilometres through running and walking. Contributions came from parents, grandparents, younger members and friends, rather than elite athletes. Every kilometre logged counted toward the shared total.

How did the club keep momentum?

According to Good Things Guy, a WhatsApp group served as the central hub for the challenge, filled with encouragement, progress updates and photographs from members. Whether sessions took place during early mornings or rainy afternoons, participants kept one another motivated throughout the year.

What did members gain beyond fitness?

Participants built consistent routines, developed discipline and saw improvements in both fitness and confidence. The challenge also strengthened family bonds and friendships, with the collective effort drawing the community closer together.

How will the achievement be recognised?

As the challenge reaches its conclusion, the club is preparing to celebrate every participant individually. Each person who contributed will be acknowledged as part of the achievement.

Fieldshill Water Athletic Club did not simply reach a distance target. They brought an entire community with them on the journey.

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