Visit jumpstartchallenge.org to view our awesome photo gallery of the JumpStart Challege 2023.
THE JUMPSTART CHALLENGE treated mountain bikers of all ages and abilities to magnificent rides and spectacular views at Holla Trails, in Sugar Rush Park, on Saturday 4 March.
The riders were all responding to the call to #BeAHero. Every entry in the JumpStart Challenge, which continues until 5 March, directly supports unemployed youth through JumpStart. A skills development programme of Mr Price Foundation, JumpStart empowers unemployed youth with new skills and opportunities for employment in the retail industry, helping them break the cycle of poverty and inequality.
The JumpStart Challenge offered three mountain bike routes at Holla Trails. Nhlanhla Mthembu was the rider to beat in the 95km route, crossing the finish line first in a time of 03:58:13, with Sihle Mlungu second (04:21:23), and Jn Larche third (04:35:25). The first female home was Jeanne Grace (05:17:27).
The 50km route was dominated by Jabulo Cele. He belted out a win in 02:23:04, while Davina Wertheimer was the first female home (03:15:51). Micha Talanda was first rider home in the 15km route, hitting a time of 00:43:16, closely followed by Cody Maidman in 00:43:17.
The GO!Durban Cycle Academy and Sugar Rats, a local team riding on their home track, brought 10 to 15 riders each and it was great to have youngsters taking part in the event.
Talanda, a grade 10 learner at Curro Salt Rock said, “It feels really special to ride with a purpose and to make a difference in someone’s life.”
The inaugural Glide & Ride Cup, a mini ‘grand prix’ for boys and girls on balance bikes, also lifted off on Saturday. The top three podium finishers were Keilan Masekela from Ashton International College in Ballito, Josie MacDonaghue from Reddam House Ballito, and Jack Van Schalkwyk from Reddam House Umhlanga.
More action tomorrow
The JumpStart Challenge runs from 27 February to 5 March, with options to take part virtually or physically. The physical run/walk events of the JumpStart Challenge will take place on Sunday 5 March, at Holla Trails.
The JumpStart Challenge has been well supported by community groups, including Drivetrain Academy and Manifest Yoga Studio, while enthusiastic teams from Miladys, Mr Price Sport and Mr Price Money also held virtual events.
The JumpStart Challenge was made possible with funding and support from Mr Price Foundation’s partners: Mr Price Sport, SPAR, Absa, as well as City Logistics, Fineline Technologies and CMH Nissa Ballito. A special thank you also goes to East Coast Radio for going the extra mile to promote the JumpStart Challenge.
Thank you one and all for making every step or cycle count!
#JumpStartChallengeZA #BeAHeroZA #MrPriceFoundation
Nhlanhla Mthembu was the rider to beat in the 95km route, finishing in 03:58:13. © Pierre Tostee / Mr Price Foundation
The JumpStart Challenge was well supported by GO!Durban Cycle Academy. © Pierre Tostee / Mr Price Foundation
Boys and girls had a great morning on the pump track, in the inaugural Glide & Ride Cup. © Pierre Tostee / Mr Price Foundation
Top finishers in the 15km Ride, (from left): Micha Talanda, Sophia Lombard, Sophie Bircher and Cody Maidman. © Pierre Tostee / Mr Price Foundation
Micha Talanda (right) was first rider home in the 15km route, followed closely by Cody Maidman (left).© Pierre Tostee / Mr Price Foundation
