MOUNT Edgecombe resident Gordon Reid has reflected on his latest mammoth journey of cycling for greater good by covering 981km to raise funds for the Butterfly Palliative Home.

The home, based in Northern KZN, is a children’s hospice that provides end-of-life care to young children with severe disabilities and life-limiting conditions.

In February, Reid cycled more than 800km over eight days from Clarens to Cape Town as part of the Trans Karoo Spirit Ride, and followed that up by riding the Cape Cycle Tour.

In the past 12 years the 52-year-old has run, hiked, pedaled, paddled, walked and completed several triathlons covering more than 9000km for various charities.

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Setting out to raise a total of R40 000, Lucky Gordo, as he is known to friends and family, said the journey was life-changing.

“The experience was incredibly special and honestly quite emotional and life-changing. South Africa is outrageously beautiful, but it’s her people that really stop you in your tracks. We rode through the Free State, Eastern and Western Cape and were met with generosity at every turn.

“Riding from Clarens to Cape Town over several days was tough, but rolling into the city and lining up for my first Cape Town Cycle Tour made it all come together. The scenery, the crowds, the gees, unforgettable. Finishing the journey on 981km for Butterfly Home gave the ride real meaning. It wasn’t just about another endurance goal, it was about purpose,” he enthused.

Reid said the goal of raising the funds was to help the Butterfly Palliative Home to buy a vehicle.

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“That was the real victory. Knowing those kilometres turned directly into something practical and life-changing made every long, sore day in the saddle completely worth it. I believe small actions, done consistently, can create real impact. I’m fortunate to be healthy enough to take on these challenges, and with that comes a responsibility to give back where I can.

“Giving back adds meaning to the suffering, turns personal goals into shared wins, and hopefully shows my kids and others that success isn’t just about yourself. And if I’m honest, it’s always a lot easier to dig deep when the cause is bigger than you,” he said.

Next up for Reid is the Run for Rangers event, a 100km trail run over two days in Babanango Game Reserve.

He has also committed to running the Rhino Peak Challenge and Kudu Canter.

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