Three young men from Burgersfort have taken on a challenge that’s inspiring the nation. Gauta Mahlakoane (22), Karabo Mokoo (21), and Maxwell Ndou (24) are cycling over 1700KM to Cape Town and not on high-end road bikes, but on makeshift BMX bicycles. This ambitious journey has captured the attention of not only South Africans but brands too.
This journey is about more than reaching a destination. It’s about showing what determination, teamwork, and community support can achieve. Their goal is to raise funds for their community bike club aimed at steering young men away from the perils of drugs and gangsterism. Along the way brands, businesses and individuals have stepped in to back their dream.
A Community-Powered Journey and brands fuelling the mission.
It all started with a call for support and DJ Karri, along with Karri Nation, quickly responded by opening a contribution account. This action laid the foundation for other generous supporters to come on board.
The Matenji Boutique Hotel Group provided essentials like clothes, food, water and even new tyres as the boys left Gauteng. Their generosity helped the cyclists start their journey with confidence and care.
Medical assistance was crucial and Princemed EMS ensured the boys were looked after with full support while on the road.
From government to grassroots, everyone is rallying behind this mission. Limpopo MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Funani Jerry Maseko praised the cyclists for their “passion, perseverance and spirit of unity,” giving the journey a stamp of provincial pride.
Cape Town hotelier Mmetla Makeke went the extra mile by arranging accommodation, leisure activities and return flights for the cyclists after they reach the Mother City.
Tech giant Huawei, through Vino Snap and Karri Nation donated a new smartphone so the boys could document their journey and share updates in real-time.
National radio station Jacaranda FM made a donation of around R20,000 and hinted at a surprise from a big-name brand still to be announced — sparking even more buzz around the story.
Red Bull also pledged its support, giving the boys a symbolic and energising boost as they closed in on their final stretch.
The latest major contribution came from entrepreneur Morgan Mohlala. While the exact amount hasn’t been confirmed it’s estimated at R30,000. This donation will cover food and drinks to keep the boys fuelled during their last kilometres to Cape Town.
The movement continues to grow with generous contributions from across the country. Tubatse Business entrepreneurs stepped in with a R30,000 donation, while Takealot pledged 20 brand-new bicycles to support the boys and their vision. “This is more than just a BMX team—it’s a family, a purpose and a powerful reminder of how far passion and community can take us,” said Takealot on a social media post.
The Mysol Foundation donated outfits from Adidas for the boys. Mayor Aaron Rabohloko Mokgetle of Lephalale also threw his weight behind the mission, reinforcing the journey’s local significance. The Sekhukhune Off-Road Club helped secure a much-needed new smartphone for real-time updates and Raleigh South Africa offered bicycle servicing to keep the boys on the move.
KFC is reportedly preparing a warm welcome for the boys’ arrival in Cape Town, cooking up something special to mark the occasion. Mr. Xolani Ndhlovu from DafriGroup PLC has donated a remarkable R200,000 to help sustain and expand the initiative.
Unity on the Road.
This journey proves how powerful a shared goal can be. It’s not just a ride, it’s a movement. That movement continues to grow thanks to a live crowdfunding page where people across South Africa are still donating to help the boys cross the finish line.
As the team reaches the Western Cape, they remind us all that courage, passion and community can turn dreams into reality.
Let’s keep supporting and celebrating the Burgersfort boys as they are showing South Africa what true determination looks like.
Stay tuned for more updates on Patonbrands
