An adventurous group of 36 cyclists recently completed a demanding 1,057km fundraising ride across SA, raising an impressive R800,000 for the Eyabantwana for the Children Trust.
Divided into three teams, the Grandads Army Memorial Ride participants packed their gear into support trailers and set off on a relay-style challenge that saw each team cycle two 50km sections per day.
Together, they covered a combined 100km daily over four days, pushing through long distances and changing landscapes as they made their way towards the Western Cape. Their journey culminated in Cape Town, where they arrived in time to take part in the iconic Cape Town Cycle Tour.
Along the route, cyclists and their support crews travelled through picturesque Karoo towns, stopping overnight at accommodation establishments including Victoria Manor and Tuishuise in Cradock, as well as guest houses in Willowmore and the Montagu Springs Resort.
From Montagu, the teams continued towards Hermanus before travelling to Arabella Country Estate, where they offloaded their bicycles and rode together as one team to Bikini Beach.
Along the scenic Clarence Drive, the riders were escorted by officials from the Western Cape provincial traffic and fire departments.
The journey was not without its challenges. Support crews had to deal with tyre problems on one bus, turbo pipe issues on another vehicle and even a tyre blowout on the food trailer. Fortunately, all the setbacks were resolved quickly, allowing the teams to continue their journey with minimal delay.
Riders praised the warm hospitality of the communities they encountered along the way.
Beyond the physical challenge, participants said the ride also offered an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Karoo.
But the greatest reward was knowing their efforts made a meaningful difference.
By the end of their journey, the group had raised R800,000 for the trust in East London — a milestone organisers hope to surpass next year.
Among the riders was charity cyclist Guillaume Cillie, who described the experience as inspiring and unforgettable.
Ride organiser Bronwyn Claridge said the 2026 edition was a remarkable success, strengthening bonds between participants while advancing the organisation’s charitable mission.
“This year’s ride has forged unbreakable bonds among this incredible group of men and women, all united for an incredibly beautiful and very worthwhile cause.
“The 2026 Grandads Army Memorial Ride heroes cycled for surgeries for precious little souls.”
