Three cyclists. One thousand kilometres. And a simple goal. Antony Wannell, Blessing Kambikiri and Anrico Quiens are currently on an awesome tour to put school shoes on children’s feet and dignity back into their classrooms.
Eastern Cape, South Africa (19 February 2026) – For many families, school essentials for their children are simply out of reach. Without proper attire, children often face stigma, discomfort, or even barriers to consistent attendance.
In a powerful show of heart, grit and community spirit, three Eastern Cape cyclists are taking on a 1,000km challenge to raise funds for school children who simply cannot afford uniforms and shoes.
Founder of Amariders, Antony Wannell, together with Blessing Kambikiri and Anrico Quiens, has committed to cycling long distances across the province to support vulnerable learners identified by their local schools.
The initiative was born from Amariders’ ongoing work introducing cycling to school children in the region. Through this programme, several learners at St Mary’s R.C, George Dickerson Primary School and Grahamstown Primary School have been identified as being unable to afford basic school uniforms and shoes.
Instead of looking the other way, Amariders decided to combine their passion for cycling with a tangible solution.
The Journey So Far
The challenge officially began this week on 15 February, with the riders setting off from Hogsback to Katberg, where they stayed at Katberg Mountain Resort, 46km ridden and 905m of elevation.
On 16 February, they rode from Katberg to Tarkastad, staying at generously sponsored accommodation at Blanco Guest Farm just outside town, an 80km ride, and 1595m of elevation. The following day, 17 February, the route took them to Bedford, with accommodation at Glen Rock Lodge, 84km of riding and 922m of elevation. On 18 February, the team reached Adelaide, having ridden 75km and 641m in elevation.
Today, they are riding from Adelaide to Makhanda, where accommodation has been generously provided by 30 on Oatlands.
On Friday, 20 February, they head from Makhanda to Bathurst, staying at the iconic Pig and Whistle Inn. Saturday, 21 February, sees the riders cycling from Bathurst to Kenton-on-Sea for a well-earned two-day rest before tackling the next leg of the journey.
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By the end of the first seven days, the team will have covered approximately 500km, climbing more than 7,500 metres in elevation. The exact route for the remaining 500km is currently being finalised, with Anrico continuing toward his full 1,000km goal by the end of February, while Antony and Blessing each complete 500km.
More Than a Ride
This is not a race. It is not a publicity stunt. It is a kilometre-by-kilometre commitment to dignity in education.
Amariders is based in Kenton-on-Sea and Makhanda and focuses on community upliftment, youth development and creating access to opportunity through cycling. Through close relationships with local schools, the team saw firsthand the quiet struggles learners face when they do not have proper uniforms or shoes.
By turning pedals into purpose, these cyclists are transforming endurance into impact.
How SA Can Get Involved
The team is inviting the public to support the ride by pledging just R1 per kilometre ridden. Supporters can choose which cyclist to back, and pledges are honoured once distances are completed and verified via Strava.
You can pledge R1 per kilometre here or donate directly here. You can also follow the journey on Facebook and Instagram.
Sources: Supplied
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