“Pedals of Purpose:Three Limpopo Boys Cycle 1,700km to Cape Town”

The Gauta BMX Cyclists: Karabo Mokoo (21), Gauta Mahlakoane (22) and Maxwell Ndou (24).

Three young men from Limpopo, Karabo Mokoo (21), Gauta Mahlakoane (22) and Maxwell Ndou (24), have completed an incredible 1,700km cycling journey from Burgersfort to Cape Town.

Their bold challenge aimed to raise awareness about critical social issues, particularly gender-based violence and youth empowerment, while also promoting a healthier lifestyle.

The cyclists journey demonstrates the power of community engagement through sports and serves as a beacon of hope for young people. By promoting positive change and supporting their community, these young cyclists have become role models for others.

The trio cycled over 1,700km from Burgersfort in Limpopo to Cape Town, braving unpredictable weather, aching legs, and encounters with law enforcement.

They received support from unexpected places, including the Matenji Boutique Hotel, which provided food, fresh clothes, and medical assistance. The Western Cape Government's Cultural Affairs & Sport Department and Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis also welcomed them.

Western MEC of Cultural Affairs and Sports, Ricardo Mackenzie, not only joined them on his bicycle for the last stretch but also managed a lot of the programme’s proceedings when they arrived at City Hall around 2pm on Monday.

"Many people have prayed for you to arrive safely here in the Western Cape, and we're pleased to welcome you here this afternoon. It is an incredible achievement and millions of South Africans are proud of you," Mackenzie said.

The cyclists hope to establish a bike club in their community to encourage young people to engage in sports and steer clear of substance abuse and crime.

Their determination and resilience have inspired many South Africans, who followed their journey on social media platforms like TikTok.

Limpopo Health MEC, Dieketseng Mashego and Sport, Arts and Culture MEC Jerry Maseko, were among officials from the Limpopo provincial government who came to support their local heroes.

The ANCYL in Limpopo through their Provincial Chairperson Faith Seopela has congratulated the trio known as Gauta BMX for pushing beyond against all odds in fighting for their noble humility course of contributing positively to society. She also thanked all different stakeholders who supported them during their journey to ensure that they reach their milestone.

The Bolsheviks Party of South Africa in Limpopo added their voice to the chorus of supporting and congratulating the three young champions who emerged triumphantly to reach their journey to Cape Town.

General Secretary of The Bolsheviks Party, Seun Mogotji said their determination and resilience is true testimony that nothing is impossible. “Their achievement will continue to inspire the masses. They did this for a good course, and they did not only inspire the children and the youth from Limpopo but their entire country. Their noble initiative of fighting GDV, drugs and other atrocities has touched the hearts of many South Africans. We congratulate them without any reservation. May they continue to become gentle giants in our society.”