MyPE

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Challenge Regensburg participation to benefit Smile Foundation

By

Luvuyo Bangazi
Luvuyo Bangazi and a couple of mates

5 South African athletes, 3 based in Nelson Mandela Bay, 1 in East London and the 5th in Jozie are putting the final touches to their preparation for a mission to Germany to race an Iron Distance event there. The five will participate at the Challenge Regensburg event which consists of a 3.8km ocean swim, 180.4 bike and 42.2 marathon. Challenge is a global Triathlon event franchise offering half iron and full iron distance. Although predominantly a force in Europe, there are now more than 40 Challenge events across the globe, unfortunately none on the African continent so far – http://en.challenge-regensburg.com

The athletes have been invited by the race organizers and will be looked after by them during their stay in Germany. With all of them no strangers to the Iron distance, the athletes decided to dedicate the race to Smile Foundation instead. A number of engagement are planned to raise awareness here in SA and in Germany. To kick things off, the athletes will host an outdoor cycle exhibition at the popular Grass Roof on Saturday from 11am.

“The purpose of the activation at Grass Roof this Saturday is to raise awareness and invite athletes from all walks of life to consider joining the Smile team. One does not only have to do Triathlon, you can be doing basically any sport and any distance anywhere in the world. All that is required from the athlete is passion and the drive to grow awareness and eventually attract support” says Luvuyo Bangazi, a regular Smile Foundation athlete.

All funds raised for Smile Foundation are spent only on providing care and medical services to young children from all over SA who need reconstructive surgery. All the beneficiaries come from families who would otherwise never be in a position to afford these services. The doctors and hospitals that participate are also incredibly generous and enabling.

“On Saturday the local athletes will bring out their race equipment and tackle one of the European bike courses live on screen through smart indoor trainers. Riding a smart trainer with a real bike is very close to riding the road surface as you get all the changes in elevation whilst stationery” added Bangazi. Anyone is welcome to pop by and find out more about this incredible journey.

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.