Riding the 29th Parallel - 1,800 Kilometres for the Kariega Foundation
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Author: Jason Thomas
The Eastern Cape will always hold a special place in my heart. It is where I was raised, where I developed my love for the bush and wildlife, and where I learned to appreciate the beauty of God’s natural creation. Those early experiences shaped who I am and inspired my desire to give back. Through this 1,800-kilometre cycling challenge, I hope to make a meaningful difference by raising funds for the Kariega Foundation and supporting its vital conservation and community work in the Eastern Cape.
Although my work has taken me far from home, the connection I feel to the Eastern Cape has never left me. I currently work as an engineer aboard yachts in the United States. During my upcoming holiday and time away from work, I want to do something meaningful: return home, challenge myself and use this opportunity to give back to a place and a cause that matter deeply to me.
A 1,800-Kilometre Challenge
Combining my love of exercise, adventure and, in particular, mountain biking, I will be cycling approximately 1,800 kilometres along the 29th parallel through South Africa.
This will be more than a personal endurance challenge. Every kilometre will be ridden in support of the Kariega Foundation and its important conservation and community initiatives in the heart of the Eastern Cape. The journey will undoubtedly test me both physically and mentally. However, knowing that every kilometre has the potential to contribute to something meaningful will motivate me through the difficult climbs, long days and challenging sections of the route.
Why I Am Riding
I am incredibly grateful for the upbringing I received and for the opportunities I have been given throughout my life. My parents worked exceptionally hard to provide my brother and me with a secure, happy and adventurous childhood. They encouraged us to explore, appreciate nature and make the most of every opportunity that came our way.
I recognise how fortunate I have been, and I do not take that privilege for granted. This ride is one way for me to express my gratitude and give something back. I want to use the opportunities I have received, together with something I genuinely love doing, to support the protection of the landscapes and wildlife that shaped so much of who I am today.
By raising funds for the Kariega Foundation, I also hope to support the organisation’s efforts to create meaningful and lasting change for both conservation and the communities surrounding Kariega.
R1 for Every Kilometre
I am inviting friends, family, businesses and supporters to join me by donating or pledging R1 for every kilometre I ride. Over the full 1,800-kilometre journey, a pledge of R1 per kilometre would amount to R1,800. Supporters are also welcome to contribute any amount they are comfortable with.
Every donation, no matter the size, will add purpose to this journey and help the Kariega Foundation continue its valuable work. By myself, there is only so much I can achieve. With the encouragement and support of others, however, this challenge can become something much bigger than one person riding a bicycle across South Africa.
Click Donate Now and give what feels right: R1 a kilometre or any amount. Please use 29par plus your name as the reference (e.g. 29Par Jane Smith), so I know who's riding with me.
Follow the Journey
I hope you will follow along and support me as I take on this next chapter of my life.
There will undoubtedly be difficult days, tired legs and unexpected obstacles. There will also be extraordinary landscapes, memorable encounters and many reasons to keep moving forward. Your messages, donations and encouragement will help carry me through each of the 1,800 kilometres. Together, we can turn every pedal stroke into meaningful support for the Kariega Foundation.
One journey.
One thousand eight hundred kilometres.
R1 at a time.
Thank you for being part of the ride.
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