Thirty-six cyclists successfully completed the 11th Grandads Army Memorial Ride from East London to Cape Town, raising R800 000 for the Eyabantwana For The Children Trust.
The three cycling teams covered 1 057 km over four days in a relay format, with each team completing two 50-km sections daily before finishing as a unified group at Bikini Beach in Gordon’s Bay.
Despite several mechanical problems during the journey, including bus-tyre issues, turbo-boost pipe problems and a food-trailer tyre blowout, the support teams resolved all difficulties without major delays to the cycling schedule.
The cyclists overnighted at various guest houses and resorts, including stops in Cradock, Willowmore and two nights at Montagu Springs Resort, before completing its final legs to Hermanus.
Official escort for final stretch
After transporting their bicycles to Arabella Country Estate the teams rode together as a unified group to their destination. Western Cape Traffic and Fire Department vehicles provided an official escort along Clarence Drive for the final stretch of their journey.
The cyclists completed their fundraising ride in time to participate in the Cape Town Cycle Tour, marking a successful conclusion to their week-long charitable endeavour.
Six years of commitment
Jermaine Carelse, a Cape Town firefighter and media spokesperson for the City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Department, described his sixth participation in the ride as a privilege. “It is always an honour to be part of an organisation like the Eyabantwana Trust, which uses practical measures to improve children’s lives.”
The R800 000 raised will support the East London-based Eyabantwana For The Children Trust in its work improving children’s lives through enhanced medical equipment and surgical support.
He highlighted the camaraderie as one of the reasons participants return year after year, noting new people join annually to make a difference. “While I still have strength and energy I will be part of this fundraising effort.”
Dino Levendal, retired Cape Town firefighter, said: “I enjoyed the trip; it’s my eighth ride. I value the camaraderie, the teamwork, the evening get-togethers and the fun with the group. People on the ride have become friends and a family whose members look after one another. The group’s aim is to raise as much money as possible for children, equipment and hospital needs through the trust.
“I would love to do it next year if the Lord lets me and financially, I can afford to go. I’ll also try to get funds to get that going as well.”
Organisers expressed satisfaction with this year’s fundraising success and confirmed plans to repeat the memorial ride next year.
