Bikers bring the Christmas spirit to needy children

Over 1 000 bikers participated in the annual toy run this year.

November 27, 2023

Manna Maurice 1 minute read

The Pretoria Bikers Council (PBC) hosted its 18th annual toy run this past Sunday in Pretoria North.

The weather was not the only thing bringing the heat as thousands of bikers made their way to the Lavender Kontrei Market after gathering at Kolonnade Retail Park from 06:00 to 08:00.

Traffic was halted as thousands of roaring bike engines lined up the roads as far as the eye could see.

PBC chair Herme “Kierie” Visser said the council feels blessed to host the run this year as a way of giving back to the less fortunate.

“We cater for about 20 000 kids that might not have a Christmas. Just to put that smile on their faces, that’s the main thing,” Visser said.

The toy run is a national initiative hosted all over the country, attendees could donate toys, stationery, toiletries as well as cash to less fortunate youth the PBC works with.

The bikers enjoyed the offerings from the various food stalls, craft markets and beer tents that provided a unique glimpse into the biker culture for novices.

Visser said that 2023 was a good year for the council, hosting three major events this year. The winter bash held earlier in the year was the first time it recorded a profit and it looks forward to even bigger turnouts for the events next year.

“I want to thank each and every one who has and will contribute to this. This is brotherhood and if you think South Africans can come together when we win the World Cup, you should check out bikers as well,” Visser said.