THE CHALLENGE...

Towards the end of 2007, Kentz South Africa was approached to sponsor Conor Devine, a young man from Naas, Ireland in order to help him realise his dream of cycling 11,900 km (7,438 miles) down and across the world's most exotic and alluring continent, Africa. Conor completed the Cairo to Cape Town Cycle Challenge in order to raise funds and awareness for his charity, "AIDS Awareness in Africa". On 10th January 2008, in the gentle mist of the African dawn, a group of intrepid and strong-willed men and women began a journey of both body and soul as they pedalled their way through an epic physical and mental adventure unlike any other, with untold rewards and scenes of unsurpassed splendour combined, and an incomparable feeling of accomplishment at the end.

Conor chose to complete the race with the Tour D'Afrique Foundation, as he obviously was unable to traverse the continent on his own without back-up support etc. A portion of the race registration fee is donated to buying new bicycles for healthcare professionals in Africa. This will allow healthcare professionals to visit up to 5 times as many patients. All too frequently patients diagnosed with AIDS may be located in isolated areas, find it difficult to travel, or may be afraid of the stigma associated with being seen visiting a doctor.

Conor's journey of Tour d'Afrique.

THE ROUTE...
Started at the Pyramids outside Cairo (Egypt), passed through Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and then finally onto Cape Town, South Africa after 4 months in the saddle.

The most amazing achievement was that, out of a field of some 80 cyclists from Canada, America, Australia, Austria, Great Britain, Ireland, Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Switzerland, France, Denmark, Germany, New Zealand and South Africa, Conor was one of only 18 cyclists that actually rode the entire route! Even though he was really ill in Malawi and advised against continuing, Conor refused to throw in the towel.

(L to R) Dr. Noel Kelly, Pat Cass,Sonja (Conor's girlfriend, flagbearer, Conor Devine, Sean Lucey and Eoin Hurley.

THE FINISH...

Amidst tears, hugs and kisses and a euphoric atmosphere, the cyclists rode triumphantly across the finish line at the V & A Waterfront on 10th May - on a typical rainy, cold and windy Cape-Town day. Conor was met by a Kentz "welcoming team" consisting of Eoin Hurley, Sean Lucey, Pat Cass and Noel Kelly - who happened to be holidaying in Cape Town. Conor's girlfriend, Sonja, and an uncle of his were also present.

The cyclists proceeded to the Amphitheatre for an official welcome and to receive their medals, and after that a glass of bubbly and some snacks at Market Square. In spite of the bad weather the atmosphere was festive. A welcome dinner, video show of the journey and prize-giving was held in the evening at Hamilton's Rugby Football Club in Greenpoint. Needless to say, in true Kentz fashion, the party continued into the small hours...

Visit Conor's blog for an entertaining insight into his journey -

http://www.festivalpig.com/Kentz-Cycle-Challenge.html

Congratulations, Conor, from all at Kentz on a wonderful achievement!

Conor receiving his medal