Marvellous med student Sarah Camp has completed her 1,000km strong cycle, giving marathon racers a run for their money. But, her cycle had a different reward in mind; one that has now secured much-needed funds for students struggling with debt.
South Africa (06 November 2023) — In case you missed it, there’s a new champion cycler on the block whose biggest reward has not been a medal or podium placement. Marvellous medical student Sarah Camp and her bicycle trekked over 1000kms in 10 days from Stellenbosch to Hillcrest, KZN — an effort that could make even the most dedicated marathon racer sweat several times over — all for her fellow Stellenbosch University students struggling with student debt.
Sarah recently completed her personal cycling championship and has raised almost R30 000 in the process (R26 120 at the time of this article’s writing), with every cent set to relieve the immense stress resting on other students’ shoulders via the #Action4Inclusion initiative.
The professor who inspired the med student’s miles, Professor Thuli Madonsela, was one of the first from the University to praise her efforts.
“It was heartwarming when we received news of Sarah’s intention to undertake a cycling pilgrimage in support of our Pilgrimage of Hope, which is an extension of our #Action4Inclusion crowdfunding initiative. I was moved deeply by her generosity of spirt,” Prof Madonsela said.
The Professor furthered that the future doctor’s trek follows in the various footsteps and cycling trails of other heroes like medical professor Prof Karin Baatjes and Vice-Chancellor Prof Wim de Villiers, another doctor.
These professors have both played their part in alleviating student struggles, with Prof de Villiers moving in almost every way possible (from cycling to hiking) to raise funds toward student debt and hunger relief and Prof Baatjes walking her way to R100,000 raised for disadvantaged students.
In total, Sarah completed 1170kms and three provinces, and her longest day was when she traversed 156kms.
When the adventure (and blisters) finally met their end on Saturday, the marvellous med student shared: “It feels surreal to be back home. I can’t believe that I don’t have to climb on a bicycle again tomorrow!”
“We have a beautiful country, and I have feel blessed to have been lucky enough to have seen it by bicycle, and to have made the journey for #Action4Inclusion. I hope that the trip has helped raise awareness and funds for student debt relief, so that more deserving young South Africans can access the education they deserve.”—Sarah Camp.
There are still a few days left to help the goal reach its target of R30,000 and you can find Sarah’s campaign here.
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