Make a difference and become a Muscle Rider
FOURWAYS – If you love cycling and want to make a difference in the lives of those affected by muscular dystrophy, the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation Gauteng would love you to become a Muscle Rider in the upcoming 94.7 Cycle Challenge.
Photo: Supplied
On 17 November, thousands of cyclists will take to the streets of Johannesburg as part of the annual 94.7 Cycle Challenge.
The day is not just for sports enthusiasts but is also an opportunity for you to make a difference in the lives of those affected by muscular dystrophy.
The Muscular Dystrophy Foundation (MDF) Gauteng would like to invite members of the public to become Muscle Riders. Muscle Riders are cyclists who take on the 94.7km long route during the cycle challenge to raise money for the foundation, and anyone from amateurs to professional cyclists are welcome to join the team as long as they have their own bicycle and are fit enough to attempt the course.
“The Muscle Riders are a group of cyclists who care for those affected with muscular dystrophy and want to help make a difference in their lives,” explained Robert Scott, acting general manager for the Gauteng foundation. “This is the 8th year that Muscle Riders will be taking on the challenge.”
Scott hopes that at least 200 cyclists will ride on behalf of the organisation, and explained that riders are asked to raise at least R1 000 in donations for the foundation in the lead-up to the race. All donations raised will be used by the foundation to finance specialist equipment, such as motorised wheelchairs, to sufferers of the condition. Last year, over R300 000 was raised by volunteer riders, which went a long way toward the organisation being able to provide services to its members.
During last year’s race, the Muscle Riders also gave Mikaeel Laher, a child with muscular dystrophy, a memorable experience when they cycled with him in a specially-constructed chariot so he could experience the race too.
“Muscle Riders will receive a special team shirt during an appreciation function on the day before the race. We also collect all cyclists race packs for them.”
To become a Muscle Rider, you must register on the 94.7 Cycle Challenge website. Once you have paid for your entry, email Scott your ID number so he can add them to the MDF charity group.
Visit www.cyclechallenge.co.za for more details on how to register.
Scott concluded that he hopes cyclists join the Muscle Riders to make a real difference in someone else’s life, particularly a child affected by muscular dystrophy.
“A simple meet with one of these children is enough to know why you are doing it. To see the joy in a child’s eyes, who is unable to walk and can’t play with their friends at all, when they receive a motorised wheelchair is enough to make you want to do it.”
Details: Robert Scott can be contacted on mdfgauteng@mdsa.org.za or 011 472 9824.
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