Keegan is in South Africa
Last week Keegan Longueira had the pleasure of cycling alongside his greatest role model, his dad, now this week he has returned to his homeland, South Africa.
With only a few thousand kilometres to go Keegan hopes to smash the world record of 71 days by entering the mother city on Monday, March 2.
Keegan recalls cycling through the scorching heat of Botswana. “Running my fingers through the Bosveld grass I look at side mirror and see the South African Flag waving in the wind – I am reminded of who I am, South African, and I am proud of my country, my South Africa, blackouts and all, and the people I love,” he said.
On February 21 Keegan once again had the opportunity to share his venture with one of the big five, the African Grey Elephant, as a herd made their way through the veldt alongside the road he cycled on. He later arrived safely in Francistown, the second largest city of Botswana roughly 400km from Gaberone, the capital.
The previous day and night had been eventful for Keegan as he found himself surrounded by the wildlife of Africa. He heard the roars of lions through the night and cycled in the shadows of giraffes through the day.
“It is very hot here in Botswana, 40 degrees,” he said, surely wiping the sweat from his brow.
Keegan wished Victoria Falls a fond farewell on February 18, having spent some time there looking into waters deep finding himself and remembering just why he had cycled across Africa, for the children, not just for pride or achievement but for others.
“This beauty will get me to Cape Town, what an incredible place, it has been an emotional day – a rest day always is,” he said.
“Tomorrow is the big push for the SA border, there have been so many incredible people on the way who have made my trip thus far possible, I personally have learnt so much and won’t forget them,” he added.
The previous day Keegan had broken the 8 000km mark and completed the fourth leg of the venture through Africa. He had spent some quality time with his father Manuel who rode alongside him to Livingstone.
Keegan entered South Africa on Tuesday afternoon just after lunch at Ramatlabama Border Control, he should be in Cape Town on Monday. All the best Keegan!
