We celebrated the official launch of our new cycling Pump Track at our Buffet Olives project on 22 September with friends and invited guests. The track was designed by Eckhardt Kühn (Adrenaline Activities Coordinator at Cascade Manor) and built under his expert supervision with a team of Anna Foundation children who were very ‘hands-on’, right from the very beginning!
Among guests present were a number of well-known faces in the biking world, including professional MTB-er Adriaan Louw, Junior SA Downhill Champ, Coenie Slabbert, and staff from the Absa Cape Epic for which we are one of the Official Charities.
After an opening welcome by Buffet Olives CEO, Richard Allen, Anna shared with guests details surrounding the “3 R’s + 1 = Riding” project and the purpose of the bikes, which have the ability to teach the children way more than just biking skills!
A red ribbon wrapped around six brand new BMX bikes was cut, while yellow balloons were released into the sky, in celebration of the exciting occasion. The children were itching to get onto the track (and so were many of the guests)!
The bicycles will be stationed at Buffet Olives and used as an incentive. No Read, No Ride! Only those who attend the after-school regularly, complete their work, and show the right attitude will be allowed to use the bikes, which will be managed under Eckhardt’s supervision. Eckhardt has a desire to share his bicycling skills and teach valuable life skills through coaching the Buffet Olives children. Sessions will take place on a Friday afternoon. More photos here
Thank you to Buffet Olives, Eckhardt Kühn, Cascade Manor, Dragon Sports and the Absa Cape Epic for your roles in our Bike Project. Thanks also to Thomas Talkner Photography and Catherine Kühn for the photos.
| What is a Pump Track? A small, looped track with high curved corners and smooth dirt mounds for pumping. The rider uses their upper and lower body to “pump” their way around the track, which enables them to keep speed without having to pedal. |