ESG News South Africa

Liqui-Fruit Cape Epic teams ride miles for smiles

Four Liqui-Fruit teams of two riders will take on the challenging 800km 2014 Absa Cape Epic race to raise R500,000 for two victims of dog attacks as part of a collaboration between Liqui-Fruit and the Cipla Miles for Smiles Foundation.
Liqui-Fruit Cape Epic teams ride miles for smiles

The Cipla Miles for Smiles Foundation provides free corrective surgery to those born with cleft lips and cleft palates, and any other correctable facial deformity. David Grier, founder of the foundation explains, "Through my various fund-raising racing adventures, I am in awe of the beauty of the planet and its magnificence, but constantly in the back of my mind was the reminder of the paradox, how can this beauty of our planet also be the home of such pain and suffering experienced by our children?"

Ten years ago, Angus Makubela was attacked by a bullterrier, which led to the right hand side of his face and ear being badly damaged. He has undergone 29 operations and should only have another three more operations to go. A dog in Struisbaai attacked Ulrich van Pletzen on 31 December 2009 at the age of four. He has already undergone several operations but will require a further 30 more over the next few years.

With the help of team Liqui-Fruit, hopefully these boys will soon have their smiles back.

Liqui-Fruit is also the title sponsor of the Vineyard races that take place on the final day of the Absa Cape Epic at Lourensford Wine Estate. Known as the Liqui-Fruit Vineyard races, these events are open to the public and are far less extreme. Apart from a 26km and 51km Mountain Bike Race, there will also be a 6km and 16km trail run.

Let's do Biz