R1 million raised in 24-hour NGO spinathon

By Kirsty Hatt from KH Communications on behalf of VUSA Rugby & Learning Academy.

Robbie Fleck, Bishops OD and Ex-Stormers Coach, Joins Grant Lottering in VUSA’s Final Hour, Fist Pumping for Fundraising Triumph! Photo credit: Shirley Emms

A round-the-clock 24 hour spinathon effort by over 400 pupils and members of the Bishops Diocesan College school community has raised over R1 million for the VUSA Rugby & Learning Academy in Langa. This was the third annual VUSA Cycle Challenge, sponsored by Investec.

VUSA is dedicated to uplifting three registered ECD Centres and five primary schools in Langa with numeracy and literacy programmes, as well as an afterschool programme that provides nutritious meals and a safe haven. A grassroots rugby programme not only teaches the sport but also offers a healthy pastime for these youngsters.

Ultra-endurance cyclist Grant Lottering inspired all present with a solo ride of the full 24-hour challenge. Lottering said the VUSA NGO was close to his heart as it supported primary school children by offering academic guidance, sport, recreation and essential nourishment. “The event tested my physical limits but I knew that every kilometre I covered offered a brighter future for the children of Langa through donations received.”

“Grant’s story of his comeback after a near fatal crash while cycling in Italy 10 years ago has made him an inspiration to many, and we were extremely fortunate to have him lead the way,” said Brendan Fogarty, VUSA Executive Director. Despite being told he would never be able to cycle again, Lottering went on to cycle distances and terrain most would consider impossible, raising millions for charities in the process.

“Grant’s unwavering determination and resilience to complete all 24 hours of the challenged imbued all of those present with the fortitude to achieve their own goals.”

Makabongwe Kahla, VUSA’s Programme Manager and one of the participants of the VUSA 24-hour cyclethon, said the event had become a highlight on the NGO’s calendar.

Tony Reeler, Principal of Bishops Diocesan College, said events such as the VUSA Cycle Challenge reminded the learners about the importance of giving back. “Each act of  kindness sets in motion a powerful cycle of empowerment within our supportive Bishops community. The reciprocal benefits enrich not only those we reach, but also our own Bishops pupils, fostering a sense of pride in their remarkable achievements”.

ABOUT VUSA:

VUSA is a registered NPO started more than 20 years ago by Bishops Prep teacher, Brendan Fogarty, to address the lack of sport at disadvantaged schools. It began as a part-time rugby programme but as greater needs have been identified, the programme has developed. The root cause of the challenges that some of our youth face such as poor mental and physical health, addiction, homelessness, crime and family breakdown are often attributed to deficiencies in early childhood, leading to inactive citizens and perpetuating the poverty cycle. The VUSA programme offers children in the Langa community a safe space which provides access to sports, academic support in Maths and English, recreational outings, a hot daily meal and access to our caring staff (who are employed from the Langa community) who provide the children mentorship support and a safe space to learn play and grow. Former Springbok and Sharks player Sikhumbuzo Notshe was a participant of the Vusa programme.