ACDP’s Wayne Thring rides 109km to support Door of Hope’s mission

Wayne Thring, the deputy president of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) and member of parliament in the National Assembly, recently participated in the 109km Cape Town Cycle Tour to raise awareness and support for Door of Hope.

Door of Hope rescues abandoned infants, provides them with a place of safety and works to reunite them with family or place them in a loving home.

A lifelong passion for sports

Thring has dedicated his life to public service, community development and family values. As the ACDP deputy president and a member of the National Assembly since 2019, Thring’s journey reflects his commitment to this country and its citizens.

Growing up in Durban, Thring was always active, participating in soccer, swimming, athletics, and later, cycling.
However, the demands of parliamentary duties, with meetings often running until 20:00, led to a decline in his physical activity.

Thring saw the impact on his health and returned to cycling in 2022, competing in the 30km Amashova cycle race and the 60km race in 2023. In 2025, despite his busy schedule, he decided to participate in the Cape Town Cycle Tour.

Riding for a cause

Thring’s decision to ride for a cause was inspired by his desire to make his efforts meaningful.

“With the help of our national secretary general, Cherrel Jacobs, we identified the Door of Hope, and I immediately said ‘yes’,” highlighted Thring.

Their mission moved him, especially with the recent challenges posed by the Department of Social Development to shut down baby savers.

“There were many memorable moments on the ride, and the vibe was just fantastic, with residents coming out at different points to encourage us. The spectators along the route carried us with their enthusiasm and my commitment to support Door of Hope,” said Thring.

He aimed to finish the 109km race in five hours but finished in 04:48:00, a huge accomplishment given some of the challenges he faced building up to and during the race.

Overcoming challenges

Training for the Cape Town Cycle Town came with many challenges for Thring. A back injury in January set him back by two weeks, and time constraints made consistent training difficult. When in Cape Town, he would often train in the evenings before sunset.

The other challenges came on race day – he had mechanical issues with a damaged rear wheel spoke.

“I adapted by using a spare wheel on a backup bike, ensuring I could still participate,” said Thring.

“Mid-race, approaching Chapman’s Peak, fatigue and cramps set in, which tried to hinder my progress, but my resilience saw me through, reminding me that it’s mind over matter.”

A heart for children

His passion for supporting orphaned and vulnerable children aligns with his personal and political values. He emphasised the importance of family in a child‘s development, saying the first five to six years are crucial for cognitive and emotional development.

The Door of Hope’s mission to place children in healthy families resonates with him, especially given his pastoral background and over 40 years in church ministry.

“I believe every child deserves a second chance at life.”

The fundraising goal was R100 000, but donations will be left open until the end of the month to ensure the goal is surpassed.

“I am grateful. Every contribution is like a seed sown, promising a harvest.”

Wayne invites the community to join while he continues to support this cause, ensuring orphaned and abandoned children receive the love, care and opportunities they deserve.

He emphasised, “So, we say to the Department of Social Development, reconsider your stance because every child in SA needs an opportunity and a second chance at life. Door of Hope is giving them a second chance, and these children deserve it.”

Personal life

Thring’s political journey began in 1995 when he joined the ACDP. He was elected to parliament in 2019 and served in the last dispensation in the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.

This term, he was re-elected and served in Public Works and Infrastructure and the DTIC as an alternate.
Married to Leoanna, they have three children and four grandchildren. Thring cherishes his role as a husband, father and grandfather, drawing inspiration from his family to continue working in public service and community development.

Thring’s life is a testament to dedication, resilience and a commitment to bettering society. His journey from a sports-loving young man to a prominent political figure advocating for children’s welfare inspires the community to also serve with purpose.

To support Thring in his efforts to help the Door of Hope, go to Save our children they have a right to live.