How Le Tour de Spirit of the Great Heart Makes a Difference

Photo Credit: Supplied

What started as a 640km challenge through South Africa’s scenic landscapes became a mission of hope and healing, helping patients access life-changing cardiac rhythm treatment and spreading awareness of heart health nationwide.

Karoo, South Africa (23 October 2025) – If the Tour de France is about endurance, medals and fierce competition, then the Tour de Spirit of the Great Heart is about heart (quite literally). The six-day, 640km cycling challenge, which ended successfully on 30 September, was a test of stamina and a celebration of community.

Now in its fifth year, the tour continues to grow. Hosted by the Revived Pulse Foundation, the 2025 edition saw eleven cyclists and a five-person support crew push through dust, dirt roads, and long climbs. All to raise funds and awareness for patients in need of life-saving cardiac rhythm treatment.

Within just one month of completing the ride, the foundation has already been able to assist two patients, giving them a new chance at life. George van der Merwe, the Revived Pulse Ambassador, says while the event may be over, its heartbeat goes on.

“The tour may have ended, but the journey of hope continues. Every kilometre we cycle, every rand raised, helps restore someone’s ability to live, to walk, to laugh, to simply be.”

Founded in 2018 by Faan and Elmari Botha, the foundation was inspired by the belief that no one should lose their life because of financial barriers. Since then, the organisation has assisted over 30 patients and counting, providing cardiac rhythm management devices and psychological support.

This year’s tour once again highlighted that spirit of generosity. From Beaufort West to Somerset West, the cyclists were powered by sponsors and supporters and others whose backing helped bring Wi-Fi to the most remote parts of the Karoo. This helped with real-time updates and livestreams along the route.

But beyond the sponsorships and the sweat, it’s the stories that make this ride special. One of the cyclist, Leroux Cloete said it’s all about being able.

“For me, Le Tour is about celebrating ability. The ability to cycle for six days, to climb mountains. That’s what Faan and Elmari want to give patients back: the ability to live freely and fully.”

As awareness around heart health continues to grow, the Revived Pulse Foundation hopes more individuals and companies will come on board to help fund treatments and transform lives.