Cyclists pedal 606km against poverty

EXTREME heat, mental and physical fatigue, and a total of 26 hours of cycling time over two days did not deter the spirits of 72 cyclists as they banded together to complete the ninth edition of the 606 km Ride for MRP Foundation.

Deemed as South Africa’s toughest cycle ride, the 2018 ride with purpose from Secunda to Durban has thus far raised over R1.5 million for MRP Foundation’s education and skills development programmes, which empower thousands of young South Africans to help break the cycle of poverty and inequality.

The ninth annual athletic challenge consisted of the largest peloton to date including South African Rugby Legends Stefan Terblanche and Wayne Fyvie, as well as South African triathlete Mhlengi Gwala who made international headlines earlier this year when his legs were nearly sawed off in a gruesome attack whilst on an early morning training session.

In addition, individuals and teams comprising of masters, juniors, women and development riders, as well as the first international rider, took to the roads.

This was the first major event for South African triathlete Mhlengi Gwala since his brutal attack earlier this year in which he nearly lost his leg. Although doctors advised that he would not be able to participate in any sports for two years, Gwala tackled the Ride for MRP Foundation just a few months after the attack.

“I have been training since I left the hospital and the support from friends and family keeps me going. What’s great about the Ride for MRP Foundation is that it’s not a race but a group ride. Day one was difficult but day two was better. Although it was tough, I came with the mentality that we are riding with a cause — to fight poverty — this was my motivation on the road.”

It was SA Rugby Legend Stefan Terblanche’s first ride, and he was elated to have finished it.

“It’s a tough ride with 14 hours (stage 1) and 12 hours (stage 2) in the saddle over the two days through wind and heat but it was great and it’s all for a good cause.”

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South African triathlete Mhlengi Gwala (left) and Dusi2c winner Mboneni Ngcobo lead the Ride for MRP Foundation peloton. The 606 km ride with purpose, to break the cycle of poverty and inequality in South Africa. PHOTO: Pierre Tostee (MRP Foundation)