While many Matric graduates spend their holidays unwinding, 18-year-old Andru Van Zyl chose a far tougher challenge: cycling solo 2,500 kilometres from Polokwane to Cape Town to raise funds for children battling cancer.
The journey was inspired by a deeply personal moment. As head boy at Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies), Andru visited a close friend undergoing cancer treatment. Witnessing not only the suffering of young patients, but the emotional strain on their families, left a lasting impression.
Raised by a specialist medical doctor father and a physiotherapist mother, Andru grew up with a strong understanding of resilience and recovery. He decided to dedicate his Matric holiday to raising funds for CHOC – Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, an organisation that has supported families affected by childhood cancer for over 40 years.
Using only his father’s mountain bike and carrying all his essentials, Andru travelled back roads and long stretches of highway, often cycling alone for hours. Along the way, his determination and quiet leadership inspired widespread support from communities, cycling groups, guest houses, and hotels.
To date, Andru has raised over R400,000 toward his R500,000 goal, with sponsors including SA Oil Solutions, VanH, The Munga, and Fuel Lab. All funds raised go to CHOC Cows, a programme that provides monthly food parcels and nutritional support to families during childhood cancer treatment.
“As parents, we are incredibly proud of Andru—not only for the physical perseverance this journey demands, but for the emotional maturity and compassion it reflects. He has always shown remarkable talent, leadership, intellect, and empathy, and this journey is simply a milestone in a life guided by strong values. Our role is to support his vision, trusting that his message will leave a lasting legacy for the youth of South Africa. Compassion, after all, reveals who we truly are and helps us grow to our fullest potential.” Anerett and Smit Van Zyl.
Fresh from achieving six distinctions in Matric, Andru has received tentative acceptance to the University of Pretoria Medical School and plans to pursue a career in medicine.
He is expected to arrive in Cape Town on Thursday, 22 January at midday, with the public invited to welcome him at Mandela Glasses, Sea Point Promenade..
In a country hungry for positive stories, Andru Van Zyl’s journey stands as a powerful example of leadership in action—and proof that one young person can make a meaningful difference.
Issued by: Wordzmiths Public Relations
on behalf of:
Andru Van Zyl and CHOC
The post Never Stop: Andru Van Zyl’s Valiant Ride for Children with Cancer appeared first on The Home Of Great South African News.
While many Matric graduates spend their holidays unwinding, 18-year-old Andru Van Zyl chose a far tougher challenge: cycling solo 2,500 kilometres from Polokwane to Cape Town to raise funds for children battling cancer. The journey was inspired by a deeply personal moment. As head boy at Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies), Andru visited a close friend
The post Never Stop: Andru Van Zyl’s Valiant Ride for Children with Cancer appeared first on The Home Of Great South African News. Read More
