WITH over 130 riders confirmed for the 2017 edition of the Great Annual Bike Race Across Natal (GABRAN), cycling enthusiast Johnny Mauer has committed to extending his record as the ride’s most decorated participant, having taken part in virtually every race since the three-day ride’s inception.
The ride now forms part of The Cows annual fundraiser for the Childhood Cancer Foundation CHOC. “It beats a day in the office. In the years when the event was cancelled because of low entry numbers, I did the ride anyhow. I had booked the leave and arranged vehicles, so I did the ride on my own,” said the 56 year old telecommunications professional wryly.
“It is a lot of fun, and not a race at all, and a chance to really enjoy this beautiful country of ours,” said Mauer.
He said the race is different every year, and the afternoon sessions can become quite protracted when they get bogged down at some of the popular stops along the way.
“The afternoon socialising is superb. Some years we get quite delayed because there are so many great places to visit, especially on the second day when you go through the Midlands Meander area. We sometimes come across locals who set up refreshment tables on the side of the road for the riders, and there are no sports drinks there, I promise you! It is a not-to-be-missed experience,” he added.
With a few places still available for the 2017 ride, which will contribute to The Cows efforts to raise R10 million this year for CHOC to commemorate its tenth anniversary, Mauer said any bike riding enthusiast should seize the opportunity. “Just do it. You will never ever forget it or regret it,” he concluded.
More information can be found at www.grabran.co.za.
