As the Discovery 947 Cycle Challenge draws near, we spoke to the Vision Mission Ride Captain, Khaya Hlophe-Kunene.

Khaya “Ride Captain” Hlophe-Kunene shares his vision for the Vision Mission team

As the Discovery 947 Cycle Challenge draws near, we spoke to the Vision Mission Ride Captain, Khaya Hlophe-Kunene. 

1. Khaya, congratulations on being selected as Vision Mission’s Ride Captain for Discovery 947 Cycle Challenge. What does being selected mean for you?

I am afforded the privilege to lead a group of change agents in a battle with ourselves, the weather and 94,7km sitting on a stool in an attempt to complete one of Africa’s most gruelling cycling races. The icing on the cake is that we are not only doing it for ourselves nor the team but for the many visually impaired children in South Africa. There is no greater feeling than crossing the finish line with your team for a cause greater than you.

2. As someone who also suffers from a vision disability, what is the message you would like to share?

I would like to quote one of the most iconic visually impaired people in the world, Stevie Wonder, “Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes does not mean he lacks vision.” When your vision for a greater tomorrow is big enough, the odds do not matter! Go after your dreams! 

3. What would you like to achieve by entering this race?

As a team, we would like to raise funds for 150 children to be able to chase their dreams.

4. How are you ensuring that you and your team are prepared for the race?

We have team training sessions on Saturdays and Sundays in conditions similar to the race. We also have individual training sessions during the week to work on our conditioning. To ensure the team morale is high and we are committed to the cause, we make it a point to have a beer or two after the weekend sessions.

5. What does Vision Mission mean to you?

Whether you are visionally impaired, have a disability or not, let this not define you but instead motivate you to reach for the stars. There are no limits to what we can do when we believe.

Vision Mission rallies future leaders, advances understanding the importance of eyesight and champions the fight for a more equitable world for people with disabilities.