Cycle to Nowhere raises over R200 000 for CHOC
Cyclists gave the CHOC Cycle to Nowhere Challenge their full support.
Three-hundred-and-twenty-five avid cyclists rode 160km on stationary bikes at Cadence studios from Pietermaritzburg to Ballito in the CHOC Cows’ 100miles2nowhereChallenge fundraiser.
Hillcrest riders were thoroughly spoilt by Lupa Restaurant, SPAR, the local Caltex and The Roost, which sponsored food, snacks and refreshments for the day, while deejay, Cameron Claasen, ensured the riders had some entertainment to keep their minds off the gruelling five to six-hour cycle.
The challenge was so successful, raising over R200 000 for CHOC, that it will become a national event next year.
The first event in South Africa was in 2010 when 13-year-old Kloof schoolgirl, Laura Varty, organised members from her parents’ riding club to ride. They raised R2 000.
The money raised will be used by CHOC to support a ‘CHOC Block’ at the paediatric oncology unit at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital. This facility provides a private rooming-in facility for a child with cancer and their care-giver during their often lengthy treatment. Each room costs R150 a day to run, which includes two meals a day for the child and carer and laundry facilities.
Marilyn Duke, Cows organiser, said, “I have been absolutely astounded at how many cyclists have gone out of their way to get sponsors and take part, it has been very well supported.”
