Several riders from the Pedal Project are excited to take on the Fedhealth MTB Challenge at Blaauwklippen Wine Estate in Stellenbosch on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September.
The Pedal Project was founded in late 2020 to help children in under-resourced communities around Cape Town experience a community focused on exposing them to a safe, inclusive environment. By combining the challenging, physical nature of mountain biking with a specialised programme run by qualified and experienced mentors, the group aims to equip children between ages 10 and 13 with tools and support to overcome mental and societal issues so prevalent in today’s times.
“Pedal Project’s programme uses positive youth development and experience to influence our participant’s social and emotional learning positively,” explained its executive director, Jaco van der Linde.
“We currently have 49 children in our programme. They are all from Khayelitsha and their ages range from between 10 and 13. Through our Trail Therapy (mountain biking, mentorship and mindfulness) we equipped the children to face their daily mountains or challenges that they may encounter at home and/or at school.”
He further said the Fedhealth MTB Challenge is close to where the children usually ride, so it’s familiar territory. “It’s also another opportunity to expose the children to the fantastic realm of mountain biking. It will allow them to gain more experience and confidence in their capabilities.
“Before joining our programme, the majority of our children had never ridden a mountain bike on trails. The Fedhealth MTB Challenge will give the children the opportunity to apply what they have learnt so far in a slightly competitive environment.
“It is, however, all about having fun, accepting new opportunities, seeing new people, and connecting with other children on the day.”
“Yem”, a 12-year-old Pedal Project member who has entered the Fedhealth MTB Challenge Kids Events, said: “I am very happy to go to the race. I feel so special to be able to ride the bicycle. It is a happy place for me when I ride, and I feel blessed to be able to ride a bike despite all the challenges that I face.”
Another 12-year-old Pedal Project member, “Moose” is just as excited to enter the Fedhealth MTB Challenge Kids Events. “I am very excited to enter my first race. I am grateful for the opportunity. I feel blessed to be able to ride a bicycle in these beautiful areas.”
For more information, or to enter the 2022 Fedhealth MTB Challenge, visit www.stillwatersports.com.
