CAPE TOWN – A team of cyclists who pedalled and sweated for neglected animals has achieved a record-breaking milestone, raising an impressive R777,382 at this year’s Cape Town Cycle Tour on Sunday 8 March.
Comprising 102 members, they joined forces to raise funds for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA to assist with sterilisations and the purchase of pet food and blankets.
The amount raised by Team SPCA was an 11% increase from last year’s total of R700 640, with donations still coming in said Cape of Good Hope SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abraham.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA is the oldest animal-welfare organisation in South Africa, established in 1872 to prevent animal cruelty.
Based in Grassy Park, it operates as a registered non-profit organisation (NPO) providing 24-hour emergency services, veterinary care, adoption and education across the Cape Metropole.
“This year Team SPCA riders took on the 109 km route to help prepare 70 animals for adoption, giving them the care, comfort and support they need to find loving homes,” Abraham said.
One of those animals was a cat named Ivy who arrived at the SPCA after losing everything after her owner died.
“Despite the heartbreak she remained gentle, loving and hopeful,” she said. “After waiting patiently, Ivy finally found her forever home, the kind of happy ending every animal deserves.”
People’s Post spoke to some of the cyclists to shed light on the inspiration behind their mission.
Newlands cyclist Sasha-Lee Gallow said she joined the race after visiting the SPCA and witnessing firsthand the team’s dedication.
“Seeing the work being done and the animals being cared for made it so much easier and more meaningful to show people exactly where their donations were going. I absolutely loved the race. The atmosphere and support along the route were incredible, and it felt really special to be part of such a big event while riding for a cause that means so much to me.”
She also races with the Embark triathlon team and was thrilled to achieve a sub-4 finish while improving her time by 45 minutes compared to her 2022 mountain bike attempt.
Gallow has been cycling actively for the past year and a half. However, this was her first time doing the Cycle Tour on a road bike.
Fellow cyclist Charl Marais from Parklands was motivated by his own rescue experience.
“I have two rescued cats myself named Storm and Neptune. Just like them, I felt encouraged to help feed and shelter cats, dogs and other animals that need a happy safe loving home. The most exciting part was participating not just in the race but also being part of the SPCA team for my first ever cycle tour,” he said.
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