The energy inside Bishops Diocesan College was electric this past weekend. Hundreds of cyclists came together for the 24-Hour Cycle Challenge, raising more than R930 000 for the VUSA Rugby and Learning Academy in Langa.
Now in its fifth year, the event has grown into Cape Town’s biggest stationary cycling fundraiser. It brings together schools, corporates, families, and even DHL Stormers players.
From Saturday morning, 6 September, through to the early hours of Sunday 7 September, participants kept the wheels turning. This was in support of VUSA’s work with over 1 400 children.
The academy, founded more than 20 years ago by Bishops Prep teacher Brendan Fogarty, provides after-school education and tutoring. It also offers nutrition, structured sport, arts, and mentoring to children in Langa.
The aim is to create safe spaces for learners to grow and thrive.
“Every child deserves a safe space, a hot meal, and the chance to shine. Through English, Maths, Coding, sport, art, and music, VUSA helps children reach their potential. The Cycle Challenge makes this possible,” said Nikki Matthews, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of VUSA. “As a participant, I experienced first-hand the camaraderie and determination that fuelled the event.
“Parents cheered on their children. Corporate teams competed in friendly rivalry, and pupils showed grit as they pedalled into the night. The sense of gees never wavered, even as the hours stretched past midnight.”
Greg Brown, Head of Bishops Pre-Prep, said the ride captures the heart of the school.
“Riding alongside the community reflects the heart of Bishops and what we can achieve together,” he said.
One of the youngest riders, 11-year-old William Hatt, cycled for an astonishing five hours. “It was tough, but I knew I was helping other kids. That made me keep going,” he said proudly.
With Investec once again as title sponsor, joined by Checkers, Virgin Active, Technogym, and countless community donors via BackaBuddy, the event has raised more than R3 million in five years.
Jerome Passmore, Western Cape Regional Head for Investec Private Bank, said their involvement goes beyond just sponsorship.
“This is more than a fundraising event, it’s a chance to stand alongside VUSA in creating safe spaces, opening access to quality education, and giving young people in Langa the opportunities they deserve. Our belief in building enduring worth for communities is what makes this partnership so meaningful.”
Funds raised this year will support the expansion of VUSA’s literacy programme and upgrades to its feeding centre. They will also support the launch of a community-run deli aimed at creating both income and skills opportunities in Langa.
What began as a school initiative has grown into a citywide movement of support for township education and empowerment. With the wheels of the 24-Hour Cycle Challenge still spinning strong after five years, the event continues to change lives far beyond the Bishops campus.
