Pedalling for Dagbreek

Yolanda Nel
The Dagbreek School in the capital dreams of building six new classrooms and to generate the necessary funds, plans on hosting an exciting cycling race in July.
The event - which consists of three stages, namely 30 km, 60 km and 100 km from Karibib to Wilhelmstal and back - is organised in collaboration with the Top Gear Cycling Club.
“Although we invite every cyclist to take part, this day is also intended for children,” said Freddy Thys, one of the organisers. “There will also be a shorter route so the children can enjoy the day together while they wait for the cyclists to return.”
According to principal Paul du Plessis, the government advertised eight new positions at the school. “All eight positions have been approved and we are grateful for that, but now we need new classrooms.”
The positions include teachers in art and recycling, agriculture, car washing, cooking, hairdressing, brick making, a position for people who are working with autistic children, as well as a department head for students at the entrance level.
Du Plessis said that Eddy Martins and Thys ran into each other and came up with the idea of not only raising money for Dagbreek but also raising awareness for children with disabilities. “We are retired, but we feel a need to do something for the community again,” says Thys.
Du Plessis said there are very few schools for children with disabilities in Namibia. “We do what we can and are proud of a variety we provide, but we need more schools. The need in this country is much greater than people realise.”
If you would like further information or to register for the event, please contact the team on 081 841 5444 or 085 224 4844.