Cycling buddies take on another epic ride
The Drie Ou Ballies will be pedalling for charity again this year.
Friends and fellow cyclists Eddie Steyn and Chaz Freislich have resolved to take on a mammoth task for a good cause.
Together the pair will embark on a perilous journey of nearly 800km on their bicycles, departing from Uncle Jim’s Pub & Grill in Constantia Kloof on May 3, and ending at Port Edward on May 14, all in the name of charity.
According to Eddie, who took part in the Drie Ou Ballies ride from Princess Crossing Shopping Centre to the premises of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League in Cape Town last year, this year’s ride, themed Paws, Kids & Pedals, is yet another bucket list item for him.
“Last year’s ride was epic, but I’m sure this year’s will be even better,” he says. “I have a new riding partner who is as passionate as I am, not only about what we’re doing, but about why we’re doing it.”
Eddie and Chaz met by chance after last year’s Ride Joburg cycle challenge.
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Eddie, a pensioner who has undergone three back operations and a hip replacement, no less, adds that this year, their charitable ambitions are even bigger.
“I’ve always supported the Animal Anti-Cruelty League, and Chaz has been a longstanding supporter of St Lawrence Children’s Haven in Discovery,” he says. “Thus, we decided to include them both as beneficiaries of this year’s proceeds.”
The initiative was formally launched at a swanky event held at Blueberry Hill Hotel on March 14, where the official route was announced and the beneficiaries were named.
“We can’t wait,” says Eddie.
Chaz, a manager at Uncle Jim’s, is equally excited.
“I’ve always been very involved with charitable causes, taking on a challenge every year in aid of charity,” he says. “When this opportunity came my way, I didn’t think twice. How often does one get to take on a challenge as profound as this?”
Chaz took the bull by the horns and, between himself and his wife Tanita, launched a Facebook page and started drumming up support in the form of sponsorships.
“We are overwhelmed by the kind-hearted responses and generous donations that have come in thus far,” he says. “Every bit helps.”
For more on the Paws, Kids & Pedals ride, visit their Facebook page or scan the QR code to donate.
