Glen Anil resident gears up for Amashova
The 33-year-old para surfer, who was born without legs below the knee, will be using a hand cycle.
GLEN Anil resident David Williams is aiming to complete his second Amashova Durban Classic this Sunday when he takes on the 65km route.
The 33-year-old para surfer, who was born without legs below the knee, will be using a hand cycle donated to him by paralympian and para-cyclist Ernst van Dyk.
“Last year, I participated in the 38km cycle, and this year, I wanted to challenge myself to take on a longer distance. It is definitely going to be the toughest thing I’ve ever done on a hand cycle. I think the closest I’ve gotten to this was a 100km cycle fundraiser on the Durban Promenade for me to make the SA para surfing team. Hand-cycling for me is more of a hobby; it’s not something I do competitively. Having said that, I’m looking forward to this year’s challenge,” he said.
Also read: Greenwood Park family ready for Amashova
Williams also spoke of his chance meeting with Ernst van Dyk which opened new worlds for him.
“It was surreal. I was at my prosthetist when Ernst and I began chatting about hand-cycling. He asked why I didn’t give the sport a try, and I mentioned that cost was a factor. He mentioned he had his old bicycle in the garage and kindly offered it to me. He just had to make a few repairs and adjustments. A week went by, and I thought nothing of it, but he got in touch and stayed true to his word. I actually couldn’t believe it. He was so genuine and sent down the hand cycle to Durban, which gave me some time to cycle along the promenade – something I had never been able to do before. I can’t thank Ernst enough for opening this new world to me,” he said.
Speaking on the thrill of the Amashova, Williams urged residents to enter as it was a great way to see the City.
“Last year’s Amashova was epic. Riding through the streets with no cars and seeing parts of Durban that look so different on bicycle was absolutely amazing. I think it’s an event everyone should do. The 38km, the shortest route, is possible for all ages and all fitness levels. It’s not a walk in the park, but anyone can do it. The great thing is you can relax, make a few stops on the route and just enjoy the day,” he said.
- This year’s event takes place on Sunday, October 22. You can still enter this year’s race – simply visit www.shova.co.za. Late entry fees apply.
For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook, X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
