Calgary cyclist, seven others to pedal across the African savannah next month

David Custer, a triathlete from Calgary, will be among a squad of eight riders biking through the African savannah in February, raising money for a purpose very dear—and deeply needed—in that part of the world.

The ride is part of “Wheels for Wells,” a cycling fundraising event started in 2011.

Custer and seven other cyclists from Winnipeg, Ontario, Montreal and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania will ride 350 km, taking them across Tanzania with the aim of supporting the construction of critical wells in Africa, part of the fundraiser’s overall purpose of providing clean drinking water for those without. So far, the group has already raised $26,000 for the African project, the Calgary Sun reported, the proceeds supporting the efforts of World Vision in the region.

As Custer told reporters, the response he and his fellow riders have received from Canadian and Albertan communities has been remarkable—especially considering the times.

“I was surprised when I joined in,” Custer told the Sun, “especially with tough economic times in Canada and jobs being scarce. It’s been amazing to see people’s generosity and willingness to help other people.”

The wells the fundraising ride is helping to build cost around $24,000, but beyond their construction, Custer said, he wants to see a broader awareness take hold among other Canadians about the infrastructure difficulties experienced in Africa. Building that knowledge, he told reporters, is as important as building the wells themselves.

“I’m standing outside right now,” he said, “and I’m looking at water running down the street that people in Africa spend hours and hours searching for. They have to send their kids to go and get it, and then their kids can’t go to school.” As for the ride itself, Custer says he can’t wait to cycle through the beautiful, wildlife-rich landscape of Africa, an opportunity few other cyclists can claim.

“I’ m stoked,” he said.