Jason Bell and 10 dedicated cyclists travelled 2000km from Cape Town to Durban in memory of eight-year-old Connor Bell and his mother, who were killed in a car accident on the Athlone Bridge in Durban on 26 March 2011.
The Coast2Coast Charity Cycle finished at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday afternoon, with the 11 participants arriving tired but exhilarated by their achievements. “Memories of this journey will stay with us forever,” said Philip Adamson, GM of The Three Cities Royal Hotel, who took part in the challenge. “The experience exceeded expectations in the awareness we’ve raised of drink driving and of the Connor Bell Sports Trust.”
See below for photos from the Coast2Coast Charity Cycle…
All money raised will go to the Connor Bell Sports Trust, which aims to support the training of sport coaches in underprivileged areas – a concept young Connor would appreciate, as a dedicated sports fan and Sharks supporter.
The Coast2Coast began at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town on 2 August, with 11 participants, including Connor’s family and friends, some Royal Hotel staff members and supportive SA Rugby Legends, cycling the 2100km journey in an effort to raise R1 million for the trust.
The gruelling route incorporated George, Jeffrey’s Bay, PE, Bloemfontein, the majestic Drakensberg and PMB, and served a massive challenge to the 11 riders, who had never done any serious cycling before the event.
“We’re stronger and fitter (with the help of Voltaren injections),” says Jason Bell. “It was a great test, breaking mental and physical capabilities. You grow through that.”
On the final stretch to Durban, the group were joined by paracyclists and stopped off on Athlone Bridge to lay a wreath in memory of Connor, his mum Gill Bell and 19-year-old Carmen Hunter, who also died in the tragic accident.
Show your support
The team have done the hard work, now it’s your turn to help. Make a difference today by donating to The Connor Bell Sports Trust. Every Rand raised will help to grow the game that Connor loved so much, and give other kids a chance to play to their passions.
SMS Connor to 39239 to donate R15
Or you can donate via EFT with the details below:
Account: The Connor Bell Sports Trust
Bank: Standard Bank of South Africa Limited
Account number: 330 695 827
Branch: Musgrave Road
Branch code: 042626
Please ensure you use C2C as a reference.
Visit coast2coastcycle.co.za for more information.
2 Comments
Great pics. Heart-warming story. Thanks a lot Hayley.
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