‘Grandad’s Army’ ride boosts home’s coffers
The annual Grandads Army took to the road for their 1,160km cycle to Cape Town on March 3 in a bid to raise funds for the Eyabantwana Children's Trust.
The memorial ride is in honour of Rob Burton, Mike McComb, Arthur Salzwedel and Michele Wienand, all members of the “army” who sadly passed away following accidents on the road.
The first leg of the journey saw the teams stop over in Cradock before moving onto Willowmore.
The “King of the Mountain” segment is a 9km climb with a 450m elevation which requires a fair bit of stamina and motivation.
Reclaiming the title from Waye Salzwedel, Sean Rice reached the top of Huisrivier in 31:41:00.
On March 5, tragedy struck for the team as one of their own, Michele Weinand, passed away in an accident. The “army” continued the cycle at the request of Weinand's family and held a memorial service for him in Agulhas.
The cycle was completed on March 7 at Gordon's Bay.
The “army” also took part in 109km Cape Town Cycle Tour in aid of Eyabantwana Childen's Trust.
“We are incredibly proud of each the cyclists that took on this year's challenge and more impressed with the funds raised thus far for the organisation.
“Thank you to each cyclist, sponsor and donor for your continuous support and dedication towards the Eyabantwana Trust and all it stands for,” event organiser Trystan Viaene said.
Eyabantwana helps the Eastern Cape paediatric surgical services of the Frere and Cecilia Makiwane Hospitals specifically with regards to supplying surgical equipment and maintenance to the paediatric burn units of these hospitals.
Gandads Army has raised R260,000 thus far for the non-profit organisation.
For those wanting to assist the cause, may contact Viaene at trystan@hyperpr.co.za