Season’s greetings to you all

It would be a shame to end of 2010 with one last blog. It’s been a mammoth year for all of us in South Africa, a bit more partying than usual thanks to the world cup, and now the end of 2010 is just a week away.

Ticking the checklist
It’s also been a big year for team SiyaShova. From what started out as an idea of having adventure turned out into become a full blown project. Countless hours spent on ticking things of the checklist, which among others included: formalising relations with our charity, the Hear Us Foundation; building and launching of the SiyaShova website; launch of social networking campaign via Twitter and Facebook; approaching potential sponsors (which is still going on); researching the route; researching parts for and building of our bikes; physical training; a couple surgeries (ok this one’s just for me – I had some previous injuries that have now been sorted out)... to name but a few. There’s still plenty more to do and with JT’s arrival in South Africa a lot more will be done. It’s been difficult to say the least, in terms of juggling work and planning a 12500km cycle across Africa. But we know that it will be worth it, not just for us, but also for all those we (and this includes you) will help.

Where we stand
At this point in time, I believe Imraan’s bike is ready for collection. It must be said in this regard that our bike builder, Francois du Toit, has been extremely slow. You live, you learn. We’re also fervently chasing potential sponsors – big and small. Thus far I’ve been sponsored a set of panniers from my friends the Ersson’s in Sweden – the panniers are in the post and should pick them up any day now. But sponsorship from companies is still proving elusive – we’ll keep trying though! Work-wise: JT has finished off with his stint in the Cayman Islands, he’ll be back in SA any day now and then 100% focused on the trip; Imraan and I will both resign at the end of February. Donations for Hear US: 2010 has seen our first donation come through via the website. Thus far we’ve had few more. We’re expecting things to really pick up once we get going in March and really do look forward to your support.

We’re looking for a journalist to partner with the project next year. This person will need to assist us with the media aspect of things – especially when we’re on the road and don’t have time. So if any of you know are one, or know of one would be keen to get involved, do let us know.

And that’s for now, and for 2010!

Happy holidays and stay safe!!!!

Ria