Leon Bester, Jan Jacobs and Jack Jacobs are paddling from Bothaville to Bloemhof to raise awareness about animal cruelty and support rescue organisations.
South Africa (05 August 2026) – What were once feeding troughs have been given an entirely new purpose, and that’s to carry three animal advocates down the Vaal River in support of animals in need.
Leon Bester, Jan Jacobs and Jack Jacobs set off on their canoe journey on 1 August, paddling from Bothaville towards Bloemhof to raise awareness about animal cruelty and generate much-needed support for animal rescue organisations along their route.
Their mission is driven by a shared commitment to helping animals, and their creative choice of transport has added a unique touch to the adventure.
The canoes they are using once served as feeding troughs, proving that with determination, teamwork and a little ingenuity, almost anything can be transformed into a vehicle for change.
Each day, the trio paddles along the Vaal River, taking on the physical demands of the journey one stretch at a time. At night, they set up their small tents along the riverbank before preparing for another day on the water.
Leon is no stranger to going the extra mile for animals. He has previously completed cross-country cycling adventures in support of SPCAs, raising both awareness and vital funds for animals in need.
This time, he has swapped two wheels for a paddle and joined forces with Jan and Jack for another meaningful challenge
The three men are now closing in on Bloemhof, with the final stretch of their journey in sight.
The Virginia SPCA praised the team for going above and beyond to support animal welfare and wished them safe travels as they continue towards the finish.
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