Cape Town welcomed three young cyclists from a Gauta BMX club in Limpopo as they completed their arduous journey across the country in a heartwarming display of community spirit, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Emotions ran high as local residents and dignitaries gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievement of the Gautam BMX team, who pedalled from Burgersfort to the Mother City, overcoming numerous challenges along the way.
The trio, made up of 24-year-old Maxwell Ndou, Gauta Mahlakoane and Karabo Mokoo, arrived at the Huguenot Tunnel beneath the picturesque Du Toitskloof Pass on a sunny Monday morning after a brief weekend respite in Laingsburg and Worcester, where Ndou sought medical assistance for a knee injury sustained during the ride.
Despite his challenges, Ndou’s determination shone through as he returned to the saddle, supported by an ice pack and the encouragement of his teammates on their way to Cape Town.
Both Mahlakoane and Mokoo, also feeling the toll after twelve long days on the road, took advantage of the weekend pause to receive physiotherapy and rest. Their journey had not only tested their physical limits but also served as a message of hope, inspiring others to push through adversity.
Upon their arrival in Cape Town, the cyclists were met by City of Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, who expressed pride in their accomplishment.
‘From Limpopo to Cape Town! We had a good warm gatsby ready for our boys; Gautam BMX has made our nation proud,’ Hill-Lewis stated enthusiastically.
Western Cape Cultural Affairs MEC Ricardo Mackenzie echoed this sentiment, commending the cyclists for their resilience.
‘Well done cycling across the country to share your message of hope. Honoured to receive you on behalf of the people of the Western Cape,’ he said, expressing gratitude for the support the cyclists received from both Cape Town and the wider South African community.
The spirit of collaboration was further exemplified by the presence of Limpopo’s MEC for the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Funani Jerry Maseko, along with the MEC for Health, Dieketseng Mashego.
‘It’s a proud moment for us; these young champions have truly represented our province on this incredible journey,’ Maseko remarked while welcoming the cyclists.
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