The first Xtreme for Kids tour in 2013 had three participants, no sponsorship, little back up support and relied on the good will of Samaritans on the way and the support of the South African Police Services. Upon seeing the impact of the visits in these rural areas, Matla A Bana, developed several school programs to accompany the tour.
Actors like Ivan Zimmerman and Llandi Pelser (Republic of Zoid) joined on the stage. The kids met our child protections heroes - Captain Bully Buster, Moompi and Smiley educating them on bullying, the dangers of keeping secrets, recognizing tricksters and their tricks and protecting themselves against them. To date thousands of children have heard these important messages.
To the cyclists who have participated this tour has been a life changing experience. Challenging not only their cycling skills, but also their outlook on life and the suffering of others. During the six years of its existence, more than 45 cyclists have participated in the tour. To date only four cyclists have managed to complete the full tour – Dirk Lourens (our tour leader – 6 successful tours), Allan Klette (business consultant – two successful tours), Andre Van Rooyen (SAPS Cycling team – 1 successful tour) and Marco Calitz (Professional – 1 successful tour).
Since its humble beginnings, the Xtreme for Kids Cycle Tour has made its mark as one of the most difficult, but also life changing cycling events in South Africa. This tour is not about cycling only – it is about overcoming extreme conditions, team spirit, experiencing true South African hospitality and about touching and changing lives.
