“We aimed for a 100 cyclists, and with only 6 short of reaching our goal, we are more than ecstatic with the support we got,” says Judy Joubert, Volunteer/Charity Team Leader: Stepping Stone Hospice Telkom 947 Cycle Challenge team. “Since taking part in our very first Cycle Challenge in 2014 with 44 cyclists riding for us back then, our cycling team has consistently elevated Stepping Stone Hospice to new heights with their sheer dedication, commitment to our cause and unbelievable support and generosity of sponsorship,” says Judy.

Out of the 116 charities that took part in 2017, Stepping Stone Hospice falls second only to CHOC in the amount of funds raised, year on year, and after last year’s challenge they can now add the coveted Blue Jersey, awarded to Jeff Hudson as the cyclist who raised the most funds for a charity, to their list of accolades.

Each year, thousands of cyclists register to compete in this iconic Joburg event, the only cycling event in the world that has placed such significance on making a difference and to “ride for a purpose.” Under the “Ride for a Purpose” banner, no less than R15.2 million was raised in 2017 for charities throughout South Africa.

Support for the hospice’s team came from as far as Dubai with Steven Miller who decided to join the team and raise much needed funds. Steven is the brother of one of our volunteers, Beverley van Zyl and has been living in the United Arab Emirates for the past 8 years.

Loyal supporters of Stepping Stone Hospice, Plastic Ideas together with Grayston Travel have joined forces and entered a team of 15 mountain bikers who will compete and raise not only funds, but also awareness of the work Stepping Stone Hospice does in its community.

And then of course we have our seven children, who will ride in the Kiddies Race on Saturday 10th November, all in aid of Stepping Stone Hospice. Needless to say that we are immensely proud of this group of youngsters!

All funds raised by our cyclists will go towards the renovation of a 450sqm Park Home that will be added on to our existing In-Patient Unit, allowing for an additional 12 rooms, including an adolescent wing.

If you wish to sponsor our cycling team, kindly contact Marietjie Tame on marietjie@steppingstonehospice who will assist with sponsorship details.

Caption: Steven Miller, training hard on the Al Qudra Desert Track to get ready for the upcoming Telkom 947 Cycle Challenge as part of the Stepping Stone Hospice