Riaan rides for CF awareness

I am honored to be riding in this tour not just for the thrill of experiencing the wonderful Cape Peninsula like this, but for a deeply important cause—raising awareness for people with cystic fibrosis (CF). For years, those with CF have faced unimaginable challenges, struggling with limited lung function that makes even the simplest activities exhausting. But today, thanks to groundbreaking medications, many of them finally have the chance to breathe easier, exercise, and live a more normal life. The problem? These life-changing treatments are incredibly expensive and not always accessible to those who need them most.

For me, exercising is more than just a healthy lifestyle —it’s when I feel most alive. The rush of air, the rhythm of the pedals, and the freedom of movement are things I cherish. But I know that for many with CF, this feeling has always been out of reach. That’s the main part of why I’m riding—to highlight the importance of access to these vital medications so that more people with CF can experience what it’s like to move, breathe, and live without such limits.

Every turn of my pedals is a reminder that no one should be held back from a full and active life due to the high cost of treatment. Through this race, I hope to bring attention to the urgent need for better access to these medications, so that those with CF can not only survive but truly thrive. Together, we can push for a future where everyone, regardless of their condition, has the chance to experience the joy of movement and the freedom of a healthy, active life.