By Zanele Makola
Three cyclists known as the Gauta BMX from Burgersford, Limpopo, arrived in Cape Town on Monday after completing a 1700-kilometre cycle journey they started on the 2nd of April to gather funds and sponsorship for their bike club.
Marabou Mokomo from Riba in Sekhukhune District, age 21, Mahlakwane Gauta from GA Mathabatha-Makgoba Capricorn District, age 22, and Ndo Maxwell from Vhembe, age 24, are the BMX cyclists who are driven by passion, tenacity and a spirit of unity.
Their campaign also aims to raise awareness about Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and other social issues affecting South African communities . As they travelled across the country, they promoted awareness and collected donations. Many South Africans were impressed by their voyage and followed along on social media.
Morgan Mohlala, a Limpopo-based businessman donated to Gauta BMX, as well as brands including Huawei South Africa, Red bull and Jacaranda.
Award-winning producer DJ Karri, who has been with the young men for the whole journey, stated that while it was difficult for him even though he was following by car, it was much more difficult for the young men on bikes.
“This is very special for these boys. I joined the boys on Monday and when I got there, I could see that they were about to give up but I told them, ‘don’t give up’. I also told them I would use my social media, we would get sponsors and… We have arrived! I had to emphasise the importance of finishing what they have started, it did not look possible but they made it possible,” he explained.
For nearly a week, the trio endured heat, darkness, rain, wind and even injuries while traveling to Cape Town. According to reports, the determined young men had to sleep at police stations and petrol stations for safety. With only 320 kilometres remaining, Maxwell was forced to withdraw from the race and seek medical assistance after suffering from a knee injury. His cycle buddies had to wait for him to recover before continuing on to their destination together.
In order to accommodate Maxwell, while his knee was being treated, the trio agreed to shorten the distance and continued only 30 kilometres away from Cape Town, which DJ Karri announced on his X page.
The cyclists were greeted by the City of Cape Town and Red bull, their sponsors throughout the trip. Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sports, joined the boys on his bicycle for their last stretch and managed much of the programme’s proceedings upon their arrival at City Hall on Monday just after 2pm.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis congratulated the young men on their achievement of making it so far. He went on to say that they had been following their journey and the money raised, as well as the cause for the fundraising. “We want to welcome you with all our hearts,” he continued.
“It was not easy to reach Cape Town, it was a hectic journey but through the support and love from South Africans, we have managed to reach our destination safely. I have been through a lot but we are here for the first time in Cape Town, even with my mother besides me,” Maxwell stated excitedly.
Deiketseng Mashego, Limpopo’s MEC for Health, was one of the few provincial government officials who came out to support their local heroes. “We are sent by the Premier of our province, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, just to say to our heroes we love and support them. We are very much proud of you,” she explained.
“These young cyclists are not only challenging themselves physically, buy they are also carrying the dreams of a generation. Their journey is a reminder to our youth that nothing is impossible if you believe, prepare and persevere,” said the MEC for Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in Limpopo, Jerry Maseko.
Communities across the country were encouraged by MEC Maseko to cheer on the trio as they travelled to the Mother City. “Let this serve as a reminder to all young people that your ambition is not defined by your background. Dream big, rife on,” he concluded.
