HIGHWAY duo, Louise Van Lingen and Mary-Anne Greenland, will be taking part in the Umko Mountain Bike Adventure Race on August 17 and 18 to raise funds for Hand of Hope Special School.
The school, situated in Richmond, was created to develop education and skills for youth with learning disabilities. Each section has its special segment aimed at creating a skilled and educated disabled community, from Grade R to 12.
The Umko Adventure is a two-day ride that takes cyclists on an adventurous journey through the Umkomaas Valley and surrounding farmlands.
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The mountain bike enthusiasts said that this initiative is close to their heart.
Greenland said the race is hosted annually and has grown in popularity. “It is the highlight of my year to be able to ride in this beautiful area and beside incredible people.”
While riding The Umko Adventure last year, Greenland said she had the privilege of meeting a woman called Louise Van Linden.
“She was riding The Umko to raise funds for the Hand of Hope Special School. Louise told me about the dream that Michael Luthaka (the founder) has for the school which was started in 2017.
“She told me that his dream to build a school for learners who have learning disabilities started after he saw how their current facility (a four-bedroom house) couldn’t facilitate the number of students who wanted to attend. Land was acquired with funds donated by concerned companies like Liquid Telecom. And so the building began.
“So far, the dormitories for the students to live in and some of the 14 classrooms have been built, which will be able to facilitate grades one to 12.
“However, further funds are needed to complete the building of the remaining classrooms and ablutions and a kitchen,” said Greenland.
To assist, visit the school website at www.handofhopess.co.za.
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