The Sea-Battical Para Cycle Tour kicked off with a burst of enthusiasm and determination as we embarked on our journey from Mossel Bay to Riversdal. After a restful night generously provided by Jeanetta from Garden Route Self Catering and a scrumptious breakfast, we were ready to hit the road.
Our day began with a warm welcome from the Mayor of Mossel Bay, Dirk Kotze, the acting Traffic Chief, Antoinette Snyders, Victor Dube, Aladdin Smith and the management of Heiderand Shell Spar Express, Mano Kikinos and Pieter Nel. It was heartening to see such support from the local community and leaders, reaffirming our belief in the importance of our mission.
Media attention was in abundance, and we gladly took the opportunity to share our goals and aspirations with Mayor Dirk Kotze and the local press. Their interest and coverage would help us raise awareness for our cause and make a significant impact.
Setting off, we faced the challenge of a moderate to strong headwind. It was a reminder of the obstacles we would encounter on this journey, but our determination remained unwavering. We were joined by Fred van Zyl, Dan Prins, and Pieter Koekemoer, another disabled cyclist from Mossel Bay, whose camaraderie and spirit bolstered our resolve.
However, not long into our journey, we experienced our first setback – a flat tire on Vussi’s tricycle. Thanks to the support from Cycle Addicts and their supplied spares, we were quickly back on the road. This incident served as a testament to the importance of preparedness and teamwork on such an adventure.
Another challenge we encountered was the roller bar I had fitted earlier in the week to Vussi’s tricycle. It proved to be a formidable obstacle on the climbs. Fortunately, Vussi’s brother Thami came to the rescue, erecting crossbars to make pushing through the growing headwind more manageable. Pieter Marais, our other assistant and driver, also stepped in to help with the push. However, he faced a setback as well – a plug dislodgement 12 kilometers before Riversdal.
Despite this unexpected hurdle, Pieter raced to the nearest cycle shop to get it fixed, leaving me to tackle the 8-11% gradients to the finish line. Our determination only grew stronger as we approached Riversdal.
Our efforts were met with a spectacular welcome at the 4 star De Doornkraal Vinotel in Riversdal.
A massive welcoming party
of the staff of De Doornkraal Vinotel and community members. The reception was a powerful reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place – to connect with communities, inspire change, and make a positive impact.
As we reflected on our eventful first day, we were filled with gratitude for the support we had received and the challenges we had overcome. Day 1 was just the beginning, and we were eager to face whatever lay ahead on this remarkable journey of resilience, determination, and community spirit. Keep checking back here later this week for part 2 of the cycle journey to Hermanus…