Ride for Hope cyclists tackle 1 400km tour for Cansa

A mission-focused team of sponsored cyclists will set off from Carletonville in February 2026, determined to complete the almost 1 400-kilometre Ride for Hope tour to Cape Town. All funds raised by the riders will support the Cancer Association of South Africa’s (Cansa) life-saving work.

The event, part of Cansa’s Active programme, aims not only to raise funds but also to increase awareness of cancer and spread hope.

After just two days’ rest from the gruelling nine-day endurance challenge, the cyclists will take on the 109km Cape Town Cycle Tour on 8 March.

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Of the group taking on the trip in February 2026, all but one have completed the tour several times and know exactly what to expect.

For tour leader and coordinator Navarre Kruger (51), risk manager, next year will be his seventh fundraising cycling tour for Cansa.

This includes four tours from Carletonville to Cape Town and two relays from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

“It’s hard work, there is no doubt, but it’s also exhilarating and rewarding because we are doing it for a very good cause,” he said.

All eight of the 2026 riders and three support members have been affected in one way or another by cancer.

Kruger has lost extended family members and a dear friend to the disease and is supporting another family member undergoing treatment.

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Pilates and fitness instructor Sharon Pautz (74), who will be cycling in next year’s tour with her son Brendon (53), customer experience specialist, lost her grandfather and her best childhood friend to cancer.

“If we can not only raise money but also inspire others to do something for the cause, we know it’s worth it,” she explained.

Pautz has completed the same six tours as Kruger, while this will be the second tour for her son.

“I have several close friends impacted by cancer,” he added. “These tours allow us to positively impact the lives of people living with cancer.”

It will also be the second tour for sales rep Jason Scott (42), who has lost family members to cancer.

“This extreme cycle trip is a way to remember those who have passed away and to spread hope among those who are still with us.”

When first-time participant Rina Erasmus (52) had her son born with a cleft palate, she gave up her full-time job as a purchaser to care for him through the 33 operations he had to endure.

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“I started exercising to manage stress and became a fitness instructor. Now I am enjoying keeping fit for a cause such as Cansa,” she said.

Anita Visser (46), financial manager, will be embarking on her second tour.

“Being part of the Ride for Hope is a privilege,” she said. “It’s not about the distance; it’s about the cause and the small part each of us can play in creating awareness about what can be done towards freeing the world of cancer.”

It’s also the second tour for Hennie Dempers (59), a retired safety officer who has seen many people fight cancer around him.

“My dad lost his life to bladder cancer and one of my work colleagues to stomach cancer. I also have three friends dealing with breast cancer and another with prostate cancer. I am cycling to show my solidarity with them and everyone else affected,” he shared.

“Cansa’s spokesperson, Lucy Balona, will be riding her third tour. “It’s not just about me representing Cansa on the tour,” she said.

“I lost my mom to cancer, and the list of people I know personally who are affected by cancer is long. These tours give me a chance to honour those I’ve lost and stand with survivors and patients.

“They also provide a unique opportunity to share the vital care and support programmes that Cansa offers, to ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.”

The tour’s support crew includes Karin Lotter, Marieta Dempers and Leanne de Klerk, all of whom have lost friends and family to cancer.

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Lotter (46), personal assistant and one of the three backup drivers, said she learned about cancer when she was only 13 and her aunt was diagnosed.

“Over the years, I have seen friends survive cancer, but this year I lost a colleague. I’ve learned how powerless you can feel in the face of it and how much love, presence and support matter,” she added.

Funds raised will go towards Cansa’s life-changing work, supporting those affected by cancer through education, care and essential services. These include Cansa’s Care Homes, which provide patients and their caregivers with accommodation, nutritious meals and transport during treatment.

To donate, go to Ride for Hope | Support the 2026 CANSA Cycle Tour on GivenGain.

Sponsors and partners are also coming on board, such as DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town Upper Eastside, providing accommodation to the riders and support crew. Cansa is also grateful to Merchants, who are sponsoring accommodation, kit and spares.

Those interested in partnering with Cansa through financial or in-kind sponsorship can contact the coordinator, Navarre Kruger, or Lucy Balona at lbalona@cansa.org.za

All members are self-funding accommodation and meals along the route.