Eager cyclists will aim to raise funds for charity as the Grandads Army Memorial Ride takes to the road from East London to Cape Town on March 3.
In it’s fifth year, the annual event will see 35 cyclists ride in relay teams for a distance of 1,160km over five consecutive days.
Eyabantwana Children’s Trust director Dr Colin Lazarus said the Grandads have helped raise R1m million over four years.
“We have a steep fundraising hill to climb, but we are confident that East Londoners and the many people along the way who were so supportive in 2018, last year will again rally behind this great cause,” Lazarus said.
Frere and Cecilia Makiwane Hospital’s paediatric patients benefited from much-needed surgical equipment bought from funds raised in 2018.
These are the main referral centres for children in need of complex surgeries.
The trust was established by Lazarus, also a Grandad’s Army cyclist, to support work undertaken by the hospitals.
Army, navy and air force teams each cycle 100km to Cape Town via the Cradock, Willowmore, Swellendam, Gaansbaai and Gordon’s Bay route.
They will then tackle 110km on March 10 by taking on the annual Cape Town Cycle Tour.
Caltex Eastern Cape Marketer (CECM), the official fuel sponsor of the support teams, commended the Eyabantwana Trust for their dedication in raising awareness and funds to assist burn victims in the Eastern Cape.
“The money raised has become a beacon of hope for so many burn victims in the province. These youngsters are the future leaders in our country and as business we should ensure that they are given the chance to make this happen,” said CECM CEO Clive Berlyn.
To donate to the cause, contact Trystan Viaene via e-mail at trystan@hypepr.co.za.
For more information, visit their website www.eyabantwana.co.za or the Grandads Army Facebook page.
