George van Maanen has cycled 461.6km in his Victory for Victor fund-raiser.
Van Maanen is raising funds for Victor Ling, who was involved in a motorcycle accident last year and now needs permanent healthcare.
He is hoping Springsites will support him by donating R1 for every 1km he rides.
Van Maanen set off last Tuesday morning at 11:00 and by 15:00, some of his supporters spotted him in Balfour before he ended the day at Val, near Standerton, some 95km away.
The following morning, after indulging in a boere breakfast, van Maanen chose a scenic route to make his way to Standerton and Vrede Dam, covering a total of 103km.
The journey hasn’t been smooth sailing though.
Van Maanen suffered a puncture on his way to Standerton and on his first night away from home, pitched his tent at a local campsite, only for the low temperatures to force him to seek shelter in a bathroom.
Settled into his self-created ‘happy bubble’, he endured a long night after his mattress failed him twice and a local “hillbilly” thought it would be entertaining to do a few doughnuts and shoot off a few rounds with his handheld gun.
Also read: George van Maanen to set off on epic ride to raise funds for Victor Ling
Thursday morning saw van Maanen ride into a headwind and a 1 200m climb to Verkykerkop.
Writing in his diary, van Maanen recorded it was the most difficult day so far, but settled in for the night with some welcoming and hospitable people.
“Friday: Verkykerkop – Made a new friend at this breathtakingly beautiful place, Hennie Smit, who blessed me by paying for my nights’ stay, thank you.
“Birdsong and the sound of nature that surrounded me was a refreshing treat.
“A moment of silence for my friend Phillip and his family at a crystal-clear water stream before entering Harrismith.
“Elevation of 15% and one of the most scenic passes I have ever experienced.
“Destination for the night – Geluksdorp – unique spot true to its name ‘gelukkige plekkie die, waar ek maklik sal kan aftree!’
Also read: Pollak Park hosts fund raiser for welfare
“Ninety-nine kilometres done and dusted for the day.
“Saturday: After a good night’s rest I woke to enjoy guinea fowl and what sounded like about 10 roosters – farm life at its best! ‘Lekker rustig!’
“Lunch at Bergville and off to Winterton to stock up on my supplies.
“Booked in at Drakensberg Bush Lodge and Backpackers – one of few places that still do hot air balloon trips, a sight to see.
“After settling in, cycled another 2km to spoil myself with a proper dinner: steak, egg and chips. 75km for the day,” wrote van Maanen.
He set off for Highmoor on Sunday morning before making his way to Lesotho.
Van Maanen will be posting his progress on Strava daily.
Those who wish to follow him can search for George van Maanen on Strava.
To donate directly to Ling and sponsor van Maanen, contact Ansa on 083 789 4040.
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