If you’re passionate about positively impacting children’s lives while enjoying a bike ride or spinning session then Distance for Difference’s (D4D) THE500 is the perfect event for you!
The successful bi-annual 24-hour cycling and spinning extravaganza is set to take place on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 October. It starts at 10:00.
Sponsors, supporters and family members are encouraged to cheer participants on at the start/finish line outside Virgin Active at Waterstone Village in Somerset West or join the spinning action inside the gym.
Said D4D founder Stéphan Pieterse: “THE500 made its successful debut in 2013, and now in its sixth iteration, cyclists are gearing up to push their limits by covering a challenging 500 km distance within a 24-hour window, punctuated by short breaks every two hours. More cyclists will have the opportunity to cycle one or multiple laps with the core group of cyclists.”
The event will also feature 24 high-energy spinning classes, each lasting 45 minutes and led by enthusiastic spinning instructors.
“We encourage companies to reserve spinning bikes for a distinctive team-building experience. Individual participants can also sign up for the 24-hour solo spinning challenge or book one or more individual spinning sessions. Everyone, whether a cyclist or spinner, will receive support and encouragement to secure sponsorships, all in pursuit of our fundraising target of R750 000,” said Pieterse.
THE500 has solidified its reputation as a challenging event catering to dedicated cyclists and spinners. Pieterse provided some impressive statistics: “On the cycling front there have been 83 attempts, with a commendable success rate of 60%, resulting in 50 successful completions. Six exceptional cyclists have achieved Delta Force status by conquering three events, and one remarkable individual has conquered all five previous events.
“On the spinning side there have been 21 attempts to spin for the full 24 hours, with an impressive success rate of 86%, resulting in 18 successful completions. Two dedicated spinners have earned Delta Force status.”
D4D is a registered NPO dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of underprivileged children since 2005. Its mission revolves around using sports to raise funds for children’s charities and individual children in need.
The funds raised at the event will be distributed to 10 carefully selected beneficiaries, including Esther van Zyl, Tzadokah Foster Home, Sylvia Frank, Patch Helderberg, Gabriella Centre, Little Angels, Heartlands Baby Sanctuary, Hagar’s Choice, Kingdom Kids, and Kin Culture.
“The incredible energy and enthusiasm generated by our spinners serve as a vital source of motivation for THE500 cyclists. Join us in the excitement, and together, let’s make a substantial difference. While you may feel tired during the event, the sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that follows is truly indescribable; we guarantee it,” Pieterse said.
“So come and be a part of our cause and go the extra mile for these organisations that need our support now more than ever. Helping children in need is our true passion, and together with the events held in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2021 we have successfully raised a grand total of R3 million to date. It’s proof that positive change is possible.”
V If you or your company want to get involved in any way – organising, sponsoring, marketing and so on – contact Tacia Roux on distance4difference@gmail.com or 082 415 5595.
V For more information on D4D’s THE500 event, visit www.d4dsa.co.za, www.facebook.com/D4DSA or https://www.instagram.com/distance4difference/.
