Funds flow in from paddling challenge

THREE determined men undertook a gruelling stationary rowing challenge over six days, 7 560 minutes, 1 460KM and a total of 126 non-stop hours to raise much-needed funds for the Ingane Yami Children’s Village in the Shongweni.

Their combined effort included 189 000 rowing strokes that totalled the equivalent rowing distance from Durban to Robben Island. Stefan Terblanche, Bruce Hughes and Mike Morris (Kearsney Old Boy) went the distance for the benefit of the non-profit organisation, a charitable haven for orphaned and vulnerable children.

The village consists of individual homes and each one is overseen by a carefully selected foster mom who looks after six children. The Ingane Yami Mandela Challenge was held raise enough funds to build a new home to shelter another six children.

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The CEO of the South African Rugby Legends Association, Stefan Terblanche, and adventure athletes, Bruce Hughes and Mike Morris, delivered as promised as R690 000 was handed over to Ingane Yami.

“It’s these moments that make all the strain we took worth it. The response from donors during this challenge was incredible. Because of the generosity and caring of everyone who gave to this great cause, six children in need will now have a permanent loving home. I would do it all again,” said Stefan.

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Bruce Hughes said, “Mike and I have done a lot of charity challenges. But this one was something truly special. We had the kids there with us, cheering us on all the way, and even helping a little bit with some of the rowing. This was a really memorable experience and we’re so happy with the result. Thank you to everyone who supported us!”

The Ingane Yami Mandela challenge was an extremely taxing journey for all three athletes. Bruce and Mike rowed on a rotational basis in one-hour shifts, while Stefan took over as the impact rower during the dark evening and early morning hours, allowing the other two to sleep for six hours.

To make a donation to the NPO, contact Patricia Deacon, the Ingane Yami marketing manager, on 078 342 0539 or email tricia@inganeyami.com.

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