Riding for a noble cause
GREENSHIELDS Park resident Carmen Froneman is combining her love for animals with her new-found passion for cycling by riding in the Panda Peloton at next year's Cape Argus Cycle Tour to raise funds for the World Wildlife Fund South Africa.
The Panda Peloton is a sponsored group of cyclists riding for nature with the funds going towards wildlife projects all over South Africa.
Froneman, 22, succeeded in raising R500 by December 14 so that she could qualify to ride for the Panda Peloton. Her goal now is to raise R1500 by the end of January.
The amateur cyclist only began cycling six months ago but was soon hooked on the sport.
"I first got a mountain bike, but then I entered a road race so I decided to buy a road bike," Froneman said.
She took part in several short distance races before making it her goal to race the 110km Argus event.
Race management then e-mailed her and asked if she was interested in riding in the Panda Peloton.
"I have a passion for animals and nature and I needed some kind of motivation to finish the race," said Froneman, who is very involved with Save-a-Pet.
At the beginning of November she registered her profile on GivenGain, a non-profit organisation that provides a platform to gain sponsorship for various causes.
She managed to raise R750 in her first week after spreading the word to her friends and family.
"Cycling is fun but to say you have raised money for a good cause is better."
Froneman has been training twice a week, balancing it between her work as a counsellor and playing soccer for Mustangs.
She has also entered several races to prepare and is eyeing The Herald Cycle Tour in February.
"I'm looking forward to cycling in Cape Town and experiencing the sights."
If you would like to sponsor Carmen, please visit carmen.froneman.givengain.org