From cycling lessons to FNB gift bags, the Anna Foundation’s learners from the Oak Vallet after-school enjoyed every moment of Mini Cycling Day, with gifts made possible by Wines2Whales’ donation to the Anna Foundation last year. Photo: Carla Briers
The Mini Cycling Day was hosted at Oak Valley, where the Anna Foundation runs one of its afterschool projects and where part of the FNB Wines2Whales cycling action will take place from 31 October to 9 November.
The day featured a short cycling clinic to boost coordination, followed by a timed race and a daring “no-hands” challenge that had everyone laughing and cheering. Team members were on standby to catch any toppling riders, but most powered through with impressive balance and enthusiasm.
After some spirited competition on the bikes, learners were awarded medals for Gees Champion (Lugail Hugo), Trail Buddy (Aiden Abrahams), All-Round Rider (Aiden Abrahams) and Pedal-Power Perseverance (Nathan Coetzee). Each child also received an FNB gift bag with a headlamp and quick-dry towel, made possible by Wines2Whales’ donation to the Anna Foundation last year.
“We cycled a lot, and I learned that cycling makes you fit. I really liked riding between the cones, and I felt so happy when I climbed on the bicycle,” said Lenita Galant (10), a learner from Anna Foundation’s Oak Valley afterschool who attended the cycling day.
Fa-eez Abrahams, the Anna Foundation’s Sports Project Manager, said that cycling sessions like these play an important role in the learners’ growth and development and it is a big part of the Anna Foundation’s sports component.
“The learners really enjoy our cycling sessions, and days like this give them a chance to build their cycling skills and confidence in a fun, supportive environment,” he said.
Pierre-Henri Olivier, Operations Manager at the Anna Foundation and a keen cyclist, said the event highlights the Foundation’s growing focus on cycling.
“Cycling builds confidence, discipline and teamwork, the same values we teach through our afterschool programmes. We are proud to be an official charity of the FNB Wines2Whales and to give our learners a chance to share in this incredible event,” he said.
At Anna Foundation, cycling sessions give learners a chance to stay active, build fitness, and develop coordination. Photo: Carla Briers
The Anna Foundation’s partnership with Wines2Whales began in 2019, built on a shared commitment to uplift rural children through education, sport and life skills. Each year, the Foundation supports the event through cheer zones and community activities. This year, the team will once again activate at Oak Valley to cheer on riders and connect with the cycling community.
The Anna Foundation runs 21 afterschool projects across the Western Cape, reaching more than 800 learners every day. Its programmes include the 3R’s initiative – Reading (Education), Running (Sports and Cycling), and Right-ing (Life Skills) – which helps learners develop academically, physically, and socially.
• The Anna Foundation is dependent on donations to keep its programmes running. To support their work or get involved, visit www.annafoundation.com or email info@annafoundation.com.