Photography: Cape Town's miracle mayor Helen Zille

Published: www.reporter.co.za


After four months of cycling across Africa, riders of the 2007 Tour d'Afrique Bicycle Race/Expedition crossed the official finish line at the V&A Waterfront on Saturday, 12th May. Crazy maniacs from across the world cycle from Cairo to Cape Town (12500 km's). And to make themselves feel better about this completely self-indulgent trip of a lifetime - they donate bicycles to HIV workers along the route to help provide the workers provide better health care to the desperately ill in their villages. Worldwide, 70% of adults and 80% of children living with HIV/Aids are in Africa, so these bikes play a vital role. During the expedition I managed to cycle 140km's in one day through Botswana - dodging elephants. What a trip.
Check out the website for this cycling event: http://www.tourdafrique.com/


One thing I truly appreciate is someone who gives me love through the lens. Cape Town Mayor Helen Zille is one such person. At the arrival ceremony for the Tour d'Afrique she not only made a passionate speech about the importance of finding less harmful transportation alternatives, but she just blossomed in front of the camera.
Cycling in on a tandem with the gifappeltjie in front, she brandished our flag high and proud. She posed and strutted and hugged everybody giving us angles and options. She received a branded T-shirt and immediately pulled it over her own shirt. Great sport, fabulous energy and passionate being. We love her work!