Suzuki sponsors ride for blind motorcyclist
Doing a hot lap at the Red Star Raceway near Delmas, in Gauteng, can be exhilarating, but even more so if you do it as a blind person.
On Saturday, 7 July 2018, Jacob Kruger will do just that on a Suzuki SV650 in order to raise funds for Action 4 the Blind and Disabled – an NGO focused on training blind and deaf people – and the South African Guide Dogs Association for the Blind.
Kruger will be riding solo alongside Ian Howard, friend, mentor, brother-in-law, who will flank him on another Suzuki and guide him on the tight Red Star circuit through a wireless intercom system in their helmets. Kruger is planning to do at least two laps but may do more if time allows.
Kruger’s daring ride forms part of a family fun day at the Red Star Raceway. The day, which is open to all for just R20, will include Suzuki motorcycle test rides on the track for R50, rides with members of the Suzuki Swift club, live music, food and kids’ entertainment. All proceeds from the day will go towards the two charities that Kruger has selected.
Kruger is an avid motorcycle enthusiast who lost his eyesight in an accident approximately 12 years ago. He damaged his optic nerves in the accident, when a distracted motorist drove in front of him at speed leaving him blind and unable to ride a motorcycle.
“I hope that the event on Saturday will not only raise significant funds for my two chosen charities, but that it will also raise awareness of motorcyclists on the road and the need to be vigilant,” says Kruger. He will have an opportunity to speak to all the visitors after his ride and he will also hand out the raffle prizes at the end of the day.
Kruger is a computer programmer who consults to Action 4 and other charities on technical issues. He often speaks on issues of motorcycle safety and remains an avid motorcycling fan.
Clint Lake, dealer area manager at Suzuki SA: “We are very proud to be part of this family fun day and to help fund the event and the two charitable organisations. Jacob epitomises the daring spirit of our Suzuki team and we love his passion for motorcycles.”
Kruger’s daring ride will start at 14:00 on the Saturday, but the gates will open early, and Suzuki fans, families and motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to attend this good cause.
