Garth’s back after mammoth European trek

A DURBAN North resident and intrepid traveller has returned from his charity trek through the United Kingdom and Ireland. In 2014, Garth Lezard became the first sports fan to cycle to every Super Rugby stadium in three different countries in the conference. He has also cycled through four countries on six continents, totalling 30 000 kilometres.

The global adventurer has been raising awareness and funds for the Leonard Cheshire Home, which looks after people with disabilities, illnesses and people living with degenerative disorders.

His latest adventure saw him walk between the rugby teams in Guinness Pro 12 competition, all the while raising funds and awareness for the home but also collecting memorabilia to auction for charity. Lezard also met several South African players plying their trade, including former Stormers forward, Brock Harris, and Josh Strauss, with his trademark bushy beard. The former Northlands Primary School pupil also worked for an agency that specialised in spinal cord injuries.

“The trip was fantastic and I must admit I was little disheartened by the lack of media interest, but the people in the four countries I travelled through were just amazing. I never had to use my tent once. I walked more than 450 kilometres in just over two weeks between the various rugby stadiums.

“I was fortunate to meet several South African players along the way, which was pretty cool. The highlight of the trip for me was being part of the traditional Irish festival (céilí) and being able to sit in and absorb some of the culture.”

Lezard said the difference between his previous trips and the run and trek through the four countries was that he had no time constraints.

“The other journeys have been a bit different in that I needed to get to a certain stadium or town at a certain time. This new journey afforded me a way of managing my body in a different way,” he said.
If you would like to get involved with Lezard’s new journey, e-mail garthlezard@hotmail.com.