The Spargs 1000 Cycle Race wasn’t just about speed and competition; it was a powerful demonstration of community spirit and compassion. The successful event was a vehicle for hope, raising over R70,000 to help fund vital surgical equipment for children in need.
East London, South Africa (06 February 2025) – Cycling enthusiasts, families, and top competitors came out in their numbers to hit the road at the highly anticipated Spargs 1000 Cycle Race this past Sunday, 2 February.
This electrifying event not only tested endurance but also championed a worthy cause to raise funds for critical surgical equipment for the East London Department of Paediatric Surgery.
With the addition of the 100km distance, this new category quickly became a favourite, attracting over 100 competitors.
The event successfully raised more than R70,000 for the Eyabantwana For The Children Trust, which will contribute toward the purchase of a Flexible Gastroscope worth R830,000—a vital piece of medical equipment the trust has mobilised to acquire this month.
Race Highlights
The race kicked off at 7 am with cyclists setting off from the Thomas River turnoff and racing along the N6 towards Spargs Beacon Bay.
The atmosphere was electric, and the well-managed route ensured a safe yet thrilling race for all participants.
In the flagship 100km event, James Swart (Action Cycles) powered to victory, winning a nail-biting sprint finish against his teammate Chris Brown, who took second place. Brad Gouveris rounded out the podium in third.
Swart’s impressive time of 2:07:00 set a high bar for future competitors. Callum Reed claimed the top spot in the 75km race, with Riley Vander Walt and Hayden Salzwedel close behind.
The 38km race proved to be a fast and furious affair, with the winner crossing the line in a blistering 49:07, followed by RJ Green and Summer Gaylard. The 20km event, popular with U13 riders and families, also saw a thrilling sprint to the finish, with Kian Botes, Alex Eachus, and Skyler Holmes all finishing in a commendable 26:00.
An Unforgettable Finish
The finish line at transformed into a vibrant cycling hub, offering competitors a secure bicycle park, refreshments and the opportunity to unwind before the prize-giving ceremony.
During the ceremony an additional donation was made by the event’s main sponsors to the Eyabantwana Trust, further solidifying the event’s impact in supporting pediatric surgical care in East London.
A Community Effort
With the support of dedicated volunteers, traffic officials, and paramedics, the event proved that when a community comes together, incredible things can happen, both on the road and in the hearts of those it serves.
Sources: Supplied
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:
Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.
by 