Travis Johnston is cycling the Tour De France, right here in Joburg… and he is doing it all for Qhubeka!!!
Johanesburg, South Africa (12 July 2021) – On Saturday, 26 June 2021, Travis ‘Maverick’ Johnston, founder and coach of Mavericks Academy, began riding the Tour de France, at home in Johannesburg, on a virtual cycling platform called Zwift. Every day he rides the same distance as the professional riders do in France. And every day, he rides for a purpose: Qhubeka.
Qhubeka is a global charity that helps people in Africa move forward by providing them with bicycles. Since 2005, over 100,000 bicycles have been given out in exchange for work done in communities, the environment and academics. These bicycles have not only had a major impact on the youth: it dramatically reduces travel time to school, which means more kids arrive on time, so their attendance improves, and so does their academic performance. But Qhubeka’s work-to-earn programmes mean that adults and those Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEETs) can earn a bicycle too.
Travis has always been fueled by making a difference in the lives of others, and as a believer in education and sport so it’s no surprise that Qhubeka resonated with him on a personal level. He decided to take on a Guinness World Records attempt to raise funds and awareness for Qhubeka. As an ex-professional triathlete who boasts eight elite national titles, he has the ability to take on any physical challenge, especially if it means he can help those in need.
Fast forward to today: Travis has passed the halfway mark on his virtual Tour de France. Over 2,000km have ticked over on his bicycle, which sits on a stationary smart-trainer that syncs with Zwift (an incredibly accurate, gamified cycling application).
Word has spread not just throughout the cycling community in South Africa, but it has also reached the likes of a few cycling superstars who can empathise with the pain Travis must be feeling. Three-time World Champion Peter Sagan, 2018 Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas, and World Hour Record holder, Victor Campenaerts, had words of wisdom for Travis as he pedals onto the virtual finish line. Imagine Lionel Messi, Beyonce, or Dwyane ‘The Rock’ Johnson sent you a personal video message cheering you on for anyone who isn’t familiar with any of those names!!!
A whopping R200,000 has already been raised, and there’s hope that the donations keep on coming. A Qhubeka bicycle costs R3,850 to manufacture and be ready to ride!
Every surprise visit, message, DM, as well as food keeps Travis Johnston going and the pedals turning. If you too want to give a child the power of a bicycle, you can donate at www.givengain.com/e/ride-for-qhubeka.
Otherwise, follow Trav’s journey on Instagram by following @rideforqhubeka. #BicyclesChangeLives #RideforQhubeka
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