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19 December 2025
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Charnaud® marks 50 years with ‘Race to the Top’ - A first responder endurance challenge with lasting impact
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As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, South African protective clothing manufacturer Charnaud® hosted Race to the Top, a firefighter stair climb challenge, on Saturday, 6 December 2025, at The Leonardo, South Africa’s tallest building. Fifty first responders - including firefighters and emergency medical services personnel - from across South Africa, took on the demanding challenge of climbing 57 floors, 1 192 stairs and 234 vertical metres, fully equipped in structural firefighting gear. More than just a test of physical endurance, the event was designed to reflect the realities faced daily by first responders and to honour their unwavering commitment to public safety.
The power of the first responder community
At the heart of Race to the Top was the recognition of South Africa’s first responders - firefighters and emergency personnel who run towards danger when others run away. The event celebrated the close-knit nature of the first responder community, creating a powerful ripple effect beyond race day.
The participation of first responders in a challenge like this inspires and motivates their peers. The drive to train harder, improve fitness and push personal limits directly benefits the communities they serve. Better-prepared first responders lead to faster response times, greater resilience and ultimately, enhanced public safety.
Race results
Men’s category
• Manie Gouws — 13:36
• Simiso Gumede — 13:49
• Ethan Wildeman — 14:15
Women’s category
• Maithamako Moswete — 19:30
• Natasha Stoltz — 22:03
• Masabata Shologu — 23:40
All competitors were equipped with Charnaud® Fire-Safe® structural Air-Lite bunker suits, helmets, and gloves, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to real-world performance in high-risk environments. Breathing apparatus and technical support were provided through Mines Rescue Services, with medical support from Netcare and full logistical support from The Leonardo Hotel.
About Charnaud®
Founded in 1975, Charnaud® is a South African manufacturer of high-performance personal protective clothing and equipment. The company serves industries including firefighting and emergency services, petrochemical and oil & gas, mining, foundry and metal processing, utilities, electrical and arc-flash environments and industrial manufacturing.
Remaining true to its founding principles, Charnaud® continues to provide ‘Your last line of defence’®.
View FRI gallery
Source: Charnaud
The power of the first responder community
At the heart of Race to the Top was the recognition of South Africa’s first responders - firefighters and emergency personnel who run towards danger when others run away. The event celebrated the close-knit nature of the first responder community, creating a powerful ripple effect beyond race day.
The participation of first responders in a challenge like this inspires and motivates their peers. The drive to train harder, improve fitness and push personal limits directly benefits the communities they serve. Better-prepared first responders lead to faster response times, greater resilience and ultimately, enhanced public safety.
Race results
Men’s category
• Manie Gouws — 13:36
• Simiso Gumede — 13:49
• Ethan Wildeman — 14:15
Women’s category
• Maithamako Moswete — 19:30
• Natasha Stoltz — 22:03
• Masabata Shologu — 23:40
All competitors were equipped with Charnaud® Fire-Safe® structural Air-Lite bunker suits, helmets, and gloves, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to real-world performance in high-risk environments. Breathing apparatus and technical support were provided through Mines Rescue Services, with medical support from Netcare and full logistical support from The Leonardo Hotel.
About Charnaud®
Founded in 1975, Charnaud® is a South African manufacturer of high-performance personal protective clothing and equipment. The company serves industries including firefighting and emergency services, petrochemical and oil & gas, mining, foundry and metal processing, utilities, electrical and arc-flash environments and industrial manufacturing.
Remaining true to its founding principles, Charnaud® continues to provide ‘Your last line of defence’®.
View FRI gallery
Source: Charnaud
