The world’s largest individually timed cycle tour raises a large amount of funds in entry fees and sponsorships. This year the Cape Town Cycle Tour (CTCT) is expected to raise a charitable surplus in excess of R10 million. The funds do not profit only a single person or committee though: they are poured into community initiatives that make a lasting impact.
The two organisations that form the CTCT Trust; Rotary Club of Claremont and Pedal Power Association, each receive half of the surplus funds raised through the race. Between July 2016 and June 2017, the Rotary Club of Claremont distributed a grand total of R5 400 700 to an array of community projects.
The Rotary Club of Claremont’s Injongo Early Childhood Development project received more than R 2 million during this period. It is matched Rand for Rand by the Lewis group to provide holistic and sustainable improvements at early learning centres in Philippi, one of Cape Town’s poorest communities. Some of the CTCT funds are also channelled to other Rotary clubs to provide targeted support in their communities.
“We are committed to uplifting communities and have been intentional about supporting projects located in areas along the race route, where cyclists receive incredible support from residents on race day,” says Liz Rose, President of the Rotary Club of Claremont.
“We partnered with Songezo Jim’s Cycling Academy in Masiphumelele last year, which received 15 new bicycles for aspiring young cyclists from the community. We also provided financial support to the Muizenberg Community Safe House which helps victims affected by domestic violence,” says Rose.
Other beneficiaries included Red Cross Children’s Hospital, Groote Schuur Hospital and Mitchell’s Plain Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, Marsh Memorial Homes, Ikamva Youth Development, the Sleeping Bag Project, Tsiba Training Programme and the Wheelchair Project, to name only a few.
“Every year Rotarians from all over the Western Cape volunteer, working incredibly hard behind the scenes to ensure the race goes well. By organising this iconic race, we are able to channel significant amounts into worthy projects that uplift communities, change lives and make a sustainable difference. We hope that as cyclists cross the finish line on Sunday, 11 March, they will not only celebrate their own personal sporting achievement, but also the effect that their entry has had in helping better the lives of others,” concludes Rose.
To become a member of Rotary Club of Claremont and be part of the massive difference that they make in the community, email [email protected]. For more information on Rotary Club of Claremont and the various community projects and initiatives they are involved with, please visit https://www.facebook.com/RotaryClubofClaremont/.
