World record holder visits Benoni
Twice world record holder Dave Barr visited the East Rand Harley Motorcycle Club, on Thursday, May 22.
This was the 62-year-old American double-amputee’s first visit to the club.
Barr had both his legs amputated following a landmine explosion in 1981, while serving with the South African Defence Force in Angola.
He also served in the U S Marine Corps, in Israel and Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), in his military career.
The visit to the club came shortly after Barr completed a 6 500km motorcycle trip across South Africa.
The trip was a first for Barr in South Africa; he was raising funds for two charities – the Cheshire Homes and the QuadPara Association of South Africa.
He embarked on the trip on May 1, on his Harley Davidson 1200 Sportster.
En route, he visited many points, where he sold merchandise and gave talks, all in aid of charity.
Barr visited a few provinces en route and said he was pleased with the support he received along the way.
Since losing his legs, Barr has been striving to help other disabled people come to terms with their disabilities.
He said he plans to complete another trip across South Africa, with more sponsors and support – once again all in aid of charity.
East Rand Harley Motorcycle Club member Regan Demos said Barr is a ”phenomenal, incredible inspiration” to her.
”We share the passion with Dave as Harley lovers,” she added.
The American holds two Guinness World Records, for riding a Harley Davidson 83 000 miles around the world, which included a 13 000 mile Atlantic to Pacific crossing Northern Europe and Siberia, and a 45-day journey between the four geographical corners of Australia.
These records were attained with no leniency due to his disability.
