There is a shift happening in cycling circles with the bicycle starting to regain its place as an important mode of transport.
On Thursday 18 August, the Bicycling Empowerment Network (BEN), held a stakeholders’ networking event at the Western Province Cricket Club in Rondebosch.
Megan Pringle from the organisation says guests were treated to hilarious anecdotes from BEN patron and entertainer David Kramer about how the bicycle became part of his well-known persona over the years.
“The evening was also used (to celebrate) BEN’s recent first place win at the Eco-Logic Awards in the Transport Category. This prestigious award is held annually, recognising and honouring environmental excellence.
Guest speaker Gordon Laing, a well-known cycling advocate and transport expert, spoke of some of the strategic initiatives developing in cycling in the Western Cape and globally as well as how cycling champions such as BEN are highlighting the need for a sustainable form of transport.
“We are looking for people who can help us with bicycling repairs and maintenance as well as unpacking and sorting of donated bicycles,” Pringle says.
“There is also a need for help with fund-raising, marketing, admin and events. We welcome donations of bicycles and equipment as well as helmets, reflective safety equipment, clothing and shoes. To improve awareness of cycling we also encourage people to host their own events or raise awareness of the work that we do.”
People can become a “Friend of BEN” through a monthly donation of R100 or once-off of R1000. “If people join us as a friend they will be receiving a Velotex BEN cycling shirt,” she says.
