A local cycling development project aimed at making cycling accessible to all by introducing the youth to bicycle skills in a safe and inclusive environment needs more bicycles – especially for younger children.
In November last year former cycling champion and administrator William Newman of Highbury launched Aspire Cycling under the auspices of local civic organisation Highbury Foundation to inspire the next generation of cyclists.
Since its launch Aspire Cycling has held weekly cycling-skills sessions on Sunday afternoons for children on the multi-purpose court in Excelsior Street Park in Highbury.
Before the project started the provincial government’s Mobility Department through its partners, the Pedal Power Association (PPA) and Bicycle Empowerment Network (BEN), granted the project five bicycles.
Children can also come with their own bicycles and helmets – if they have them.
Appeal
Right from the start it became clear the project would need more bicycles. Newman said an average of 20 children from Highbury and surrounding communities – Sarepta, Riverside Gardens and Kalkfontein – attend each session.
Those who do not have a bicycle must take turns on the available bicycles, which are suitable for children 13 years and older.
“Many younger children cannot participate due to the bicycles being too big for them,” Newman said.
“The organisation is facing challenges such as a shortage of bicycles for younger children aged 6 to 10 years and frequent punctures due to the poorly maintained park where the sessions are held. We’ve depleted our supply of puncture kits and tubes.”
Any assistance to sustain the project will be appreciated. They appeal to cycling shops and families to consider donating smaller bicycles in good condition, repair kits, and tubes.
Contact William Newman at 083 321 3695 or cycling@newmaxprojects.co.za if you can assist.
