Standard Bank cycles for kids

Last year's cyclists raised R1.1 million and, this year, they hope to raise R1.4 million for charity. The cyclists comprise Standard Bank staff as well as selected clients. Each cyclist has to raise R20 000 before the event. That no one has ever struggled to raise the sum proves the level of commitment.

Training began on 15 July and, despite interruptions due to cold weather, the riders are ready to take to the road on 13 October, when they will tackle the first 170km from Heilbron in the Free State to Clarens. The following day, they will tackle a 145km stretch of road from Clarens, through the Golden Gate Nature Reserve, to Bergville, after which they will ride 175km to Pietermaritzburg.

New component

Andrew Somerville of Standard Bank, who has taken part in the event in the past and is part of this year's team, said: "The race is demanding, but the cyclists certainly do prepare well and know exactly what to expect. We have never seen a cyclist pull out of the race."

This year's event also has a new component. On Saturday, 15 October, the cyclist will take part in a double challenge, in which they will ride from Pietermaritzburg to Durban and back again the following day. The cyclists will finish their ride by participating in the Pick n Pay Amashovashova National Classic.