Travis puts his best (bare) foot forward for charity

HILLCREST resident, Travis Gillespie (22) will be taking part in a 17km hike barefoot to raise funds for the Royal Drakensburg Primary School on Saturday, 20 May.

The hike, known as the Big 5 hike, began four years ago at The Cavern in a rural valley in the northern Berg.

“For the first two years I was helping by handing out snacks and lunch for the other hikers,” he said.

Travis, who has always been interested in hiking, said he was more than happy to accept the challenge when he was sponsored to do the hike in three hours.

“I did the hike twice and when I finished my challenge in under three hours, I went back to join another group of hikers.”

Gillepsie said to take part, each person has to pay R6 000 and this year there will be 130 people participating.

“This year is going to be a bit challenging as I will be doing it without shoes to raise awareness of underprivileged children who walk to school barefoot. I have always wanted to give back to the community but in a crazy way. Last year I did not have courage to walk barefoot but now I am ready,” said Gillepsie.

To make his dream a reality, Travis needs R4 000 to take part in the 17km hike.

“I have managed to raise R2 000 from friends and family,” he said.

He also appealed for donations of school shoes.

“People have also been making beanies for the children. I have already collected 100 beanies and people are welcome to donate more.

To assist, email mrbones56@gmail.com.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname (ONLY) to 060 532 5409.

You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.