Two Cape Town first responders are trading firehoses and sirens for mountain bikes this October, taking on the grueling Wines2Whales challenge to raise funds for a children’s hospital close to their hearts.
Former law enforcement officer Regan Bagley and active firefighter Jermaine Carelse will ride the demanding three-day, 230km Wines2Whales event from 31 October to 2 November in support of St Joseph’s Intermediate Paediatric Care in Montana, Cape Town.
The 175-bed non-profit facility provides free transitional care to children suffering from chronic or life-threatening conditions like cerebral palsy, cancer, and neurological disorders. Patients are referred from regional hospitals and often spend weeks or months at St Joseph’s under the care of a dedicated medical and support team.
Bagley, deeply moved after visiting the hospital, said the experience lit a fire in him. ‘I’ve been all over South Africa doing safety and security, putting my life at risk. But when you look at the individuals that take care of these young patients and have to wipe off tears and motivate and create an atmosphere of positivity and healing every day. They are the real heroes and that inspires me. I salute them for that.’
Carelse, a father of two, echoed the sentiment. ‘When my legs burn, I’ll think of those kids and the nurses who give 200% every day. That strength comes from love.’
Both men admit the Wines2Whales route, featuring more than 4 500 metres of elevation across vineyards and rugged trails, is well outside their comfort zones. They’ve committed to a rigorous training plan, starting with the GravDuro 83km race in Elgin this June, which includes six brutal timed stages.
The physical effort, though, pales in comparison to the emotional impact of St Joseph’s. ‘We walked through the hospital, meeting the various therapists and support teams, seeing the little smiles and the tears,’ Bagley said. ‘We saw the sanctuary, where children are taken when they pass away and families spend the last moments with their little ones—it broke our hearts. As a father, it stays with you. You’re meant to protect your child. The dignity and love provided by St Joseph’s staff to these families is admirable.’
St Joseph’s also offers palliative care, supporting families through loss with compassion and dignity. Bagley and Carelse hope to inspire others to act.
‘If everyone lent a hand,’ said Carelse, ‘we could ease the burden on these parents and carers. Every child deserves to smile and play.’
To support Regan and Jermaine’s ride for St Joseph’s or to donate, visit St Joseph’s Intermediate Paediatric Care, Donation Page – Ref: Wines2Whales. Every rand raised goes directly to supporting some of the Western Cape’s most vulnerable young patients.
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Picture: Supplied
