Johannesburg, 14 Sep 2011
A close friend passed away from cancer in July 2010; he was in his early 20s. At his memorial, in August, I discovered we shared a love for cycling and we had both followed the Tour de France closely last year. Unfortunately, while I was starting to become more and more interested in the sport, he had to watch the race from hospital.
When I found out he had committed to cycle the Argus this year, my desire to participate in the same tour became determination. I started to plan for the Argus more seriously.
I began cycling last year; I would wake up before dawn to go race around the suburbs on my dad's old bike, in my baggies and t-shirt. I was trying to get fit, but had no idea of how to go about it.
Despite my lack of long-distance or duration training, I entered the 94.7 cycle challenge. I finished the race, but realised what I had done in preparation was clearly worlds apart from what I was meant to have done.
In February of 2011, I was invited to ride with a group of cyclists in memory of my dear late friend, Justin Bessler. In doing so, we were privileged in that we were able to use the race as platform to raise funds to support CHOC, a childhood cancer foundation.
I would now love to do the same in the Pro Deo Tour, in which cyclists ride from Johannesburg to Margate to raise funds. The Pro Deo Care Group is a charity that aims to assist cancer patients and the elderly in several ways. It offers home nursing and monthly clinics for the elderly, assist patients undergoing chemotherapy and supply equipment, such as wheelchairs, on loan when medical aids do not cover these patients. It relies on funding from events like the charity cycle tour and donations.
This tour is yet another way through which I can use my passion as a tool to raise money for those with cancer. With donations to the Pro Deo charity, you as an individual or company can contribute to this worthwhile cause.
To receive more information or to make a donation to this invaluable cause, please call Matt on 082 833 2292.
Article by: Matt M'Crystal
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