One Ride, One Purpose
A group of cyclists from diverse backgrounds put their bodies on the line to raise R1 million for the MRP Foundation.
A COMMON goal of breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality, inspired and united a group of cyclists from diverse backgrounds to ride an incredible 606 km in just two days in the eighth edition of Ride for MRP Foundation.
South African Rugby legends, John Smit and Jeremy Thomson, along with Chairman of the Mr Price Group Nigel Payne, and sports personalities like Mbongeni Ngcobo and Mhlengi Gwala, all put their bodies on the line to help raise R1 million for the MRP Foundation’s programmes in skills development and education.
With over 24 hours of cycling time, the tight-knit peloton relied on camaraderie to fight mind and body fatigue as well as soaring temperatures of 40 degrees celsius to complete the strenuous ride with purpose.
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Day one saw the passionate cyclists depart Nigel, Johannesburg before daybreak to tackle 346 km with them powering through 261 km on day two. Upon approaching Durban, the tired but determined peloton was escorted by the Metro police through the CBD, to the finish line at the Mr Price Group Support Centre, atop the Durban Station.
It was the first time former Springbok Captain John Smit cycled such a distance but he managed to finish the endurance ride strong.
“The heat and pace were a challenge but it was amazing to see how everyone worked together. This ride resonated with me as it just doesn’t make sense – it’s crazy to think you’re going to ride on a bike for two days from Johannesburg to Durban.
“MRP Foundation realised there’s a need to make a difference without waiting for others, and the people that have come along on this journey all have that same purpose,” Smit said.
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The ride also attracted other athletes, like SA triathlete, Mhlengi Gwala, who was inspired by the idea of a cycle challenge, just as much as he had a heart for seeing South Africa’s youth empowered.
“It was a tough first day as it was extremely hot and we were at high altitudes. But it was the highlight of my ride, as we rode through three provinces in a single day. It was a good experience and I’m looking forward to doing it again,” said Gwala.
Just like the strong sense of teamwork evident in the peloton, the ride represents the power of teamwork in achieving a larger common goal, a concept Karen Wells, MRP Foundation Manager, believes is true of South Africa.
“At the heart of doing good, is the power of partnerships and working as a team with one purpose in mind. We’re only able to build a stronger country if we join hands and work together. By reaching our goal of R1 million, we can unlock the potential of many young South Africans,” said Wells.
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