South African Guide-Dogs Association to host a cycling challenge
“I am often told that since I am blind, my other senses must be perfect. I say no. I cannot hear, I can show you by taking out my hearing aid.”
South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind is thrilled to have a diverse group of cyclists who are raising awareness for the association in this year’s 947 Cycle Challenge.
The race is scheduled to take place on November 21.
The inspiring Guide-Dogs cycling team is crunching its pedals to rally up funding from its supporters to help reach the target of R100 000.
This amount will be allocated towards sponsoring a litter born closest to the day of the race as part of the Litter Legends Programme.
“We are so honoured to have these dedicated and inspiring people as part of Team Guide-Dogs.
“In a time where so many of us are feeling hopeless due to the effects of Covid-19, it is inspiring to hear the testimonials from our cyclists,” said Yolande van Rooyen, events manager for the association.
Among our amazing group of cyclists, we have three guide dogs owners who will cycle in tandem with wonderful volunteers to keep them on course.
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Guide dog owners Johannes and Jessica Grib’s main focus for the day is to raise much-needed funds for the association.
Jessica also wants to inspire anyone with a disability to enjoy life to the fullest.
“I am often told that since I am blind, my other senses must be perfect. I say no. I cannot hear, I can show you by taking out my hearing aid.
“People can see I am blind but the deafness is an invisible disability with symptoms that everyone interprets differently.
“People seem to think as a disabled person, I have a huge support system but the truth is that I’m very independent and enjoy doing things myself, including cooking,” she added.
Jessica will be cycling in tandem with Tammy Visagie, who is a puppy raiser for the association. Her friend, Donovan Roscoe, who was so blown away by the huge difference the couple’s guide dog plays in their lives, that he jumped at the opportunity to cycle tandem with Johan.
Another tandem cyclist is the 28-year-old paralympic athlete, Louzanne Coetzee, who also makes use of a guide dog every day.
“My guide dog is a part of my daily life. She means a lot to me, gives me independence and is a comforting friend to me. She is part of our family. I am getting my second dog soon. I wanted to give back by raising funds for the organisation that has done so much for me and other blind people across the country. I also love animals and would cycle for a cause for them any day,” said Louzanne.
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We are also honoured to have gold medallist Johan Janse van Rensburg on a hand cycle.
Johan said, “As a person with a disability, this is a cause I hold close to my heart.
“I have first-hand experience of the challenges associated with mobility in a wheelchair and can’t imagine moving around with no sight.
“I have chosen this charity to create awareness and assist the Guide-Dog Association in bettering the lives of many.”
He added he is hoping for a podium finish, which will be great to promote this cause.
There are a group of over 30 cyclists cycling and raising funds for the association, which implores the public to support its efforts.
To find out more on how you can support the association, visit their website, www.guidedog.org.za, or follow them on their Facebook page.
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