Three determined cyclists, Gauta Mahlakoane, 22, Karabo Mokoo, 21, and Maxwell Ndou, 24, have completed an ambitious journey, cycling 1 741 km from Burgersfort in Limpopo to the vibrant city of Cape Town.
Over a span of 14 exhilarating days, these young men pedalled not only to test their physical endurance but also to raise awareness of critical social issues affecting South African communities, particularly gender-based violence (GBV) and youth empowerment.
Their journey was more than just a test of stamina; it was a powerful mission to uplift their community through sport.
As they travelled through major South African cities such as Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, and Worcester, they garnered support and donations, all while passionately advocating for a community bike club aimed at steering young men away from the dark paths of drugs and gangsterism.
@djkarri__ They’ve made it 🥹🙏 #karrination #djkarri #SAMA28 #videoviral ♬ Usile - Dj Karri & Spova Da Gang & SmallDrum & Rex
Their journey is documented on the social media platform TikTok, where the young athletes garnered followers and supporters as they travelled.
Welcomed into Cape Town by supporters and the Western Cape Government’s Cultural Affairs & Sport Department, the trio received recognition for their inspiring achievement.
The department took to X (formerly Twitter) to celebrate the cyclists’ accomplishment, stating, “The #GautaBMX boys completed their inspiring 1,741 km cycle from Burgersfort to Cape Town, raising awareness of GBV and youth empowerment. We are proud to celebrate this achievement. Let’s support their mission to pedal positive change. #ForYou!”
During their 14-day odyssey, the cyclists faced numerous challenges, notably when Ndou sustained a knee injury, prompting a necessary stop in Laingsburg, a quaint Karoo town.
The #GautaBMX boys completed their inspiring 1,741 km cycle from Burgersfort to Cape Town, raising awareness for GBV and youth empowerment. We are proud to celebrate this achievement. Let’s support their mission to pedal positive change #ForYou! 🥳🚴♂️🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/3iq1rjRtgb
— Western Cape Government Cultural Affairs & Sport (@WCGovCas) April 14, 2025
A qualified physician assessed his condition and advised the team to rest, highlighting the importance of health and well-being over adherence to an ambitious schedule.
While their initial plan was to arrive in Cape Town on Sunday, April 13, the cyclists arrived in the Mother City on Monday, April 14.
Their resilience shone through in their ability to adapt while maintaining their commitment to fundraising and awareness-raising.
The Gauta BMX cyclists serve as a testament to the transformative power of community engagement through sport.
Their journey stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with determination, support, and a relentless spirit, it is indeed possible to overcome obstacles and inspire meaningful change in the world around us.