Voith supports cycling for sight

This year marks the coming of age of Voith Turbo’s 21-year involvement in the annual Dis-Chem Ride for Sight Cycle Challenge, which aims to raise awareness and generate funds for retinal degenerative diseases.

“We strongly believe that sustainable results can only be achieved through a long-term commitment to solid community projects, such as the Ride for Sight Cycle Challenge, which is already in its 26th year,” explains Graham Russell, managing director at Voith Turbo.

Managed entirely by volunteers, the cycle challenge attracts both young and old individuals. Participants include amateur as well as top professional cyclists and those representing big corporate companies. “It’s such a rewarding experience for us to be able to witness the year-on-year growth of this event,” continues Russell.

The funds raised by the cycling event go to Retina South Africa. Some of the proceeds are used to help fund genetic tests for underprivileged children, for their future inclusion in therapies.

Retina South Africa is a patient-led foundation dedicated to bringing cures and treatments for the most common retinal diseases including retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration and Usher syndrome, as well as other retina-related conditions that affect thousands of South Africans.

This year’s event was hosted by the Ekurhuleni municipality and took place at the Boksburg City Stadium. A thrilling 62 km challenge for boys and girls U14/16 as well as a 116 km adult super-classic race made for a tough, but fun-filled day for both cyclists and supporters.

“The Voith water table has become a familiar landmark at the event and a welcoming sight for thirsty cyclists,” says Russell. “The fact that the ‘Voithians’ always do it with a smile shows what a truly rewarding and enriching experience it is to be part of such a worthwhile cause,” he adds.