What makes 42 teams of 390 cyclists ride non-stop for 12 hours? What drives the endurance and keeps them in a saddle, hour after relentless hour?
The cyclists were probably asking themselves those questions too, as the day wore on and the leg cramps set in, but they were all riding for a great reason – to raise funds for Helderberg Hospice. The sixth annual Cycling for Life Challenge on Saturday 16 May at Somerset House School sports hall in Somerset West was powered by a passionate commitment to help sustain the special care provided by Helderberg Hospice.
This is a ride with a difference in that it takes place indoors on stationary bikes placed on trainers with computerised speedometers. Sponsored teams of cyclists race each other to clock up the most kilometres and to raise the most money. Many ride in memory of loved ones or in solidarity with those receiving cancer treatments. The pace set from the very start of the day proves that this event is just as demanding as any major cycle race, but the huge increase in participation this year shows that cyclists of all ages and fitness levels are keen to be part of this Challenge. It was a day of high-powered, energy-pumping activity, with teams of sponsored cyclists riding an epic 20 514 kms from 6am to 6pm, the equivalent of cycling from Cape Town to Cairo to Moscow!
This year’s Cycling for Life boasted an Extreme Team of two 24-hour solo riders, supported by two teams who kept them company through the long midnight hours. Herman Koegelenberg and Kim Mussman rode a remarkable 1440 kms round the clock from Friday 5pm until Saturday 5pm, while the 12-hour teams rode from 6am to 6pm on Saturday. Local cycling celebrities Riaan Manser and Vasti Geldenhuys spent an hour in the saddle to do their bit to support Hospice care.
Helderberg Hospice would like to thank the event sponsors My Property Brokers, and salutes all those who worked so hard for this event, both on and off the saddle. Their commitment to Helderberg Hospice helps to ensure that all in our community can benefit from our special service of care.
