Grant toes the line for gruelling Amashova
Help Grant raise R80 000 for boccia players by supporting his Tsogo Sun Amashova fund-raiser.
NEW Germany sportsman, Grant Oosthuyzen, is proud to be the first wheelchair-bound competitor to take on the iconic Tsogo Sun Amashova cycle race.
He recently received a prestigious KZN Sports Award in the Volunteer of the Year category.
Grant is a KZN development officer for boccia, a precision ball sport played by wheelchair-bound athletes.
His dream is to raise R80 000 from taking part in the Tsogo Sun Amashova as recent funding cuts have hamstrung the sport.
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He will be participating in the 35km race in a bid to raise the necessary funds for Boccia.
“I have raised R31 000 so far and we are calling on everyone to please assist for this great cause to uplift disabled sportsmen and women,” said a determined Grant.
The graphic designer and photographer will operate a custom-made wheelchair with nothing but his big toe.
“It’s going to be tough, but the cushions on the specially adapted chair will keep me comfortable,” he said.
The wheelchair is being fine-tuned to cope with the 35km distance and the many hills the race will throw at him.
His game plan is to stop every 10km for a rest and battery change.
Grant is also getting his physiotherapist to check his leg function en route to ensure he can continue.
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In addition to his physiotherapist, Grant will rely on family and volunteers to assist him during the race.
“It will not be easy for a cyclist to ride at this speed so their challenge is as great as mine,” he said.
The Tsogo Sun Amashova Race organiser, Annie Batchelder, said, “Grant’s participation in our race encapsulates the true spirit of Amashova. Not only is our race for competitive riders, but we love encouraging people from all walks of life and all ability levels to participate. All participants can enjoy the full road closure on the day. So many Amashova riders support charities and it’s fantastic that Grant is doing the same. We congratulate him for winning at the KZN Sports Awards and will be cheering him on to successfully compete in the Tsogo Sun Amashova as our first-ever wheelchair athlete.”
To support Grant, contact him via his Facebook page, www.facebook.com/grantsamashova.
To take part in the race, visit its website, www.shova.co.za.
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