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30/11/2011

Cyclists gear up for two-day charity cycle from Johannesburg to Durban

 

Cyclists Gear

Last year, a fearless vision to dream beyond the impossible was realised when more than 20 cyclists completed an incredible journey from Johannesburg to Durban to raise funds and awareness for the Red Cap Foundation.

When most people consider travelling from Joburg to Durban, it usually involves going by car or plane, but for this group of intrepid cyclists, pedaling the distance was all for a worthy cause.

What started out as little more than a pipedream became a reality as the audacious challenge - dubbed the Double Triple Charity Challenge (DTCC) - saw a group of riders, many of whom were from the Mr Price cycle club, complete a distance of over 600km in just two days.

This year, December 3-4, not only will a group of riders set out once again on this journey, but this time there will be an additional few cyclists joining in on the challenge and looking to contribute to raising even more funds for the Red Cap Foundation.

The Foundation was established in 2006 and carries out Social Investment initiatives for the Mr Price Group by educating and empowering the future generations to be inspired, healthy and engaged citizens who take responsibility for building a positive society.

Last year, the DTCC raised R26 000 and sights have now been set on increasing that figure this time around.

Another incredible element of the DTCC is that despite the riders having to cycle for more than 10 hours virtually non-stop over two days back-to-back, the camaraderie and team-work ensure it is also a "fun" experience.

Mr Price sports marketing manager Graham Daniel, who was also one of the cyclists to complete the ride, said it was important to dream big because you can never be sure of what's possible unless you try.

"When doing the challenge for the first time, the reality was that we weren't sure if it was going to be possible over just two days. This was about going out to try something that didn't seem possible, and ultimately achieving it. For us it was about challenging ourselves beyond the norm and getting out of our comfort zone. Hopefully it's something that might inspire others to attempt to achieve something they didn't believe was doable."

In addition to inspiring tomorrow's heroes, funds raised will primarily be used to enhance one of the Red Cap Foundation's exciting initiatives, 'JumpStart'.

It is through the JumpStart programme that RedCap Foundation addresses the national challenge of youth unemployment. Matriculants from low income communities are invited to experience the 'world of work' for one week at Mr Price Group stores, Distribution Centre and Financial Services pision. Each delegate receives a certificate for the work experience and practical skills gained in the business.

To keep up to date on the plans and progress of the Double Triple Charity Challenge itself, keep an eye on the Mr Price Heroes website www.mrpriceheroes.co.za.

After all, it's a case of cycling to give unemployed youth a "JumpStart" in their careers - a worthy cause indeed.