Westville’s Bert Trichardt is turning endurance into impact, one kilometre at a time.
At first glance, it’s an unusual sight. A cyclist taking on extreme endurance rides is impressive enough. Doing it in a cow suit certainly draws attention.
For Bert Trichardt that attention is exactly the point. Behind the novelty is a powerful purpose, one driven by personal loss, resilience, and a determination to make a meaningful difference.
Bert is currently undertaking a series of demanding cycling challenges to raise R250 000 for the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, supporting children and families affected by cancer. He has already completed the Munga Grit Xhariep, covering 462km in 31 hours, and has his sights set on further events, including the Go2Sea – seven days of riding through the heart of South Africa, the Munga Grit North West, and potentially the Munga 1000km later this year.
“I thought I needed to do something hard that matters,” he says. “Riding for a purpose changes everything.”
Bert’s connection to the cause runs deep. He has lost loved ones to cancer, including his first wife Carolyn in 2020, and continues to see friends and their families face the disease.
“Cancer isn’t something I’ve read about. It’s something I’ve lived through,” he says.
That perspective drives him through the most difficult moments on the bike. When exhaustion sets in and sleep deprivation takes hold, he shifts his focus.
“What I’m experiencing is temporary. It’s nothing compared to what these children and their families are going through.”
Bert rides as part of The Cows, a volunteer group that raises funds for CHOC. The cow suit, while eye-catching, carries meaning. It represents doing something uncomfortable for a greater good, and it opens the door to conversation.
“When people ask why, that’s where the impact starts,” he explains.
Reactions along the route range from amusement to admiration, but each interaction helps spread awareness.
Endurance cycling at this level is as much mental as it is physical. Beyond the strain of long distances, heat and fatigue, Bert says the real challenge is staying focused when everything tells you to stop.
“You reach a point where your body is finished and your mind tries to convince you to quit.”
His approach is simple. Keep moving.
“You stop thinking long term and focus on the next water point.” It is a mindset built on discipline rather than motivation, he says. “Motivation fades, discipline stays,” reflects Bert.
Despite the scale of his challenges, Bert remains grounded. He describes himself as a normal person who works hard, values family, and refuses to slow down with age.
His daily routine starts early, with training rides, gym sessions and managing his businesses, fuelled, he admits, by plenty of coffee.
At the centre of it all is his support system. His wife Julie, his children, and his wider circle play a vital role in helping him stay focused.
“My family are incredibly supportive,” he says. “Julie understands why I do this and encourages me when I need it most.”
Bert’s initiative extends beyond cycling. Through his Vida e Caffès at Shell Blair Atholl and Cotswold Square, R1 from every coffee sold is donated to CHOC throughout the campaign. It is a simple yet effective way for the community to get involved and contribute to the cause.
Beyond donations, he encourages people to raise awareness, support fundraising efforts and find their own way to make a difference.
“Fundraising isn’t easy, but it’s worth it,” he says.
For Bert, success is about more than reaching his fundraising target. It is about creating impact, raising awareness and inspiring others to act.
“If someone feels inspired, don’t just think about it, commit,” he says. “Tell people, then follow through.”
His message is clear: extraordinary things are not reserved for extraordinary people.
“It’s not about talent, it’s about showing up.”
Details: To support Bert’s journey, you can help him reach his goal of raising R250,000 for CHOC, by scanning the QR code below to donate via GivenGain.
Bert’s advice for making a difference:
Start small You don’t need to take on extreme challenges. Helping someone in a small way still matters.
Don’t wait to feel ready Commit first, then figure it out as you go.
Rely on discipline Motivation comes and goes, consistency is what drives results.
Use what you have Time, energy and skills can be just as valuable as money.
Stay the course Progress can feel slow, but it is still progress.
Believe in your ability You are capable of more than you think, but only if you start.
