Mathieu van der Poel: Taking on the Ride Africa Challenge for a Worthy Cause
Cycling champion Mathieu van der Poel has announced an exciting new challenge that will take him far beyond the competitive racing world. In November, he will become an ambassador for Ride Africa, a thrilling cycling event through the stunning landscapes of rural Kenya. The ride will not only test his physical limits but also help raise awareness and funds for Child.org, a charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and mothers in need.
Van der Poel is clear that this will be no ordinary cycling event. “Forget Strava segments, carbon road bikes, and coffee shops,” he says. “This will be an almighty challenge and will take me completely out of my cycling bubble and comfort zone.” Riders will be contending with sweltering heat, steep hills, off-road terrain, and the unpredictable presence of Africa’s wildlife. Despite these tough conditions, van der Poel is eager to dive into this experience, knowing it will push him in ways few events ever could.
The six-day adventure will cover a demanding 450 kilometers across Kenya’s breathtaking landscape, beginning at Lake Naivasha and ending in the rural community of Meru. In Meru, Child.org is funding critical pregnancy support projects, which aim to reduce the tragic mortality rate in the area. In 2019, 1 in 26 babies born in the region did not survive their first year. By participating in this ride, van der Poel aims to raise over £1,800 to support mothers and children in need, helping to ensure that every child, no matter where they are born, has the chance to thrive.
What makes Ride Africa unique is its accessibility to all riders—whether seasoned cyclists or beginners. Van der Poel emphasizes that with some training, anyone can participate in this life-changing experience. The ride is fully supported, with expert guidance from Kenyan cycling legend David Kinjah, the man who discovered and mentored Chris Froome. Riders will benefit from mechanical and medical support, high-quality mountain bikes, and well-organized food stations to keep them energized throughout the journey.
For van der Poel, this ride is more than just a physical challenge. He has always been passionate about sport, from his early days in swimming and rowing to his current love of cycling. He’s also a strong advocate for promoting women’s sports and encouraging more girls and women to cycle. “An epic adventure where I can ride a bike to help women and girls, and children growing up in some of the most difficult environments in the world? It was a no-brainer to join this ride,” he shares.
The Ride Africa experience will take riders through Kenya’s Hell’s Gate National Park, past vast plains, lakes teeming with wildlife, and the majestic base of Mount Kenya before reaching the finish line in Meru. Whether participants choose a fundraising or non-fundraising option, the event promises a world-class experience that combines adventure and a profound social impact.
As van der Poel prepares for this unforgettable ride, he invites others to join him on this mission to help children and mothers in need. For those who cannot participate, donations are welcome to help reach the £1,800 fundraising goal. “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” he says, emphasizing the collective power of this event to make a lasting difference.
