GALLERY: Disabled cyclists take on their first big ride
The spirit among supporting cyclists was high as friends and family came together to show their support for the pair.
After six weeks of preparation, disabled cyclists Lida Alberts and Gavin Kilpatrick embarked on what they described as an epic cycling adventure on September 5.
It was finally time for Lida to feel the wind in her hair after her cycling journey was cut short in 2015 after suffering an ischemic stroke.
The courageous duo moved out of Rietvlei and reached speeds of over 40km/hour as they made their way down Swartkoppies Road.
The spirit among supporting cyclists was high as friends and family came together to show their support for the pair. The combination of cyclists included veterans of the sport, cyclists just starting out and three other disabled cyclists.
Among those were Hein Vermaak and Linsay Engelbrecht, also diagnosed with sight impairment and Irish Matcheke whose left arm is deformed.
The Florentia resident, Lida Alberts, said: “I had to use all my braveness to get on the bike and this was a roller coaster of mixed emotions. This is my life’s biggest achievement and I’m proud to be where I am.”
Kim d’Hotman de Villiers, a strength and flexibility trainer, described Lida as a passionate cyclist who had always had love for cycling.
“Her desire was always there for cycling as she would continuously tell me about her past races. Gavin then came at the right time when she was now mentally ready to take on cycling,” she said.
Lida’s son, Stiaan Alberts, also commended her for her bravery.
Special thanks
Gavin thanked all stakeholders involved.
“Thanks to the generous contribution by Panda Sportswear who provided cycling apparel for the momentous occasion. The quote was printed on their kit as a reminder of the roots to their special friendship,” he said.
He also thanked Linda Goodenough from ADT Fidelity reaction team and Garfield Venter of React-24 for creating a safe cycling environment.
He said: “VIP-Sport extends their gratitude to Laura Graybe from Calco Café and Pizzeria for her generous hospitality to welcome the cyclers.
“Again, a big thank you to Bisco Plus for providing tasty treats in hampers and a marketing campaign by Digital Gems and Scuba Legendz.”Gavin said the event would not have been possible without the logistical support from June Jeffreys, banners, flyers and gifts from Deon and Linsay Engelbrecht.
He thanked his mother T’neal and loved ones for providing him with much-needed support toward their big ride.
Moving forward, he said he hopes to see more cyclists out on the roads of Alberton and he also encouraged participation of people from all walks of life.
If you would like to get involved with the VIP-Sport initiative, contact Gavin on info@vip-sport.co.za or on 072 212 2058. Donations of cycling equipment are most welcome.
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