411
Three Limpopo friends cycle 1,700km to Cape Town to inspire youth and promote healthy living
Three young men from Limpopo are cycling more than 1,700km from Burgersfort to Cape Town — not for fame or money, but to promote healthy lifestyles and inspire their peers to dream big.
Gauta Mahlakoane (22), Karabo Mokoo (21), and Maxwell Ndou (24) started their journey on 2 April with no funding or support. Their goal was simple: to challenge themselves and show others the joy of cycling.
Their journey has since gone viral on social media, thanks to Mahlakoane’s updates on TikTok. What began as a personal adventure has now drawn nationwide attention and support.
View this post on Instagram
From scepticism to support
The trio were initially mocked when they shared their cycling plans online. “We were told it was impossible,” said Mahlakoane. “That motivated us even more. We wanted to prove that with determination, anything is possible — and to encourage young men to find joy in something positive like cycling.”
None of the three are professional cyclists. Before this trip, their longest ride was under 200km. For the Cape Town journey, they aimed to cover 150km per day, carrying only basic essentials.
In the early stages of their trip, they slept at police stations and petrol stations to stay safe. Challenges included tough weather conditions, being stopped by police for cycling on a freeway, and the physical strain of riding long distances daily.
Help along the way
Despite their modest start, help started to arrive. Musician DJ Karri offered support, and Matenji Boutique Hotel provided food, water, cycling gear, and accommodation as they passed through Gauteng.
Mmetla Makeke from the hotel group said he was inspired by their determination. “We saw that they were travelling with no proper gear, no sponsorships, and no medical support. We stepped in to help.”
Private medical team Princemed EMS also joined their journey, providing medical backup. Matenji Boutique has arranged accommodation for the cyclists in Cape Town, along with fun activities to help them unwind after the long ride.
Once in Cape Town, they will fly to Gauteng before being driven back to Limpopo.
@letago39 representing limpopo bikes 🚲🇿🇦🔥❤️
Big dreams for the future
After their return, the trio plans to start a bike club in their community to promote a healthy lifestyle and provide young men with a positive alternative to drugs and crime. A crowdfunding campaign has already been launched to support this initiative.
Limpopo MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Funani Jerry Maseko, praised their efforts: “Your passion, perseverance and spirit of unity are commendable. Let this ride be a message to all young people — your background does not define your ambitions. Dream big, and ride on.”
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Sourced:Times Live
Picture: Instagram
