A South African mom is making a 1600km trek across the country on a 59-year-old tractor to support her daughter who has been chosen to take part in the 2023 Tug of War International Federation (TWIF) World Outdoor Championships.
Corné Els is travelling from Krugersdorp to Cape Town on a 1964 Massey Ferguson 35 Diesel Deluxe to raise funds for her 16-year-old daughter, Marconette, who has been chosen to represent South Africa in the TWIF World Outdoor Championships in Switzerland later this year. The goal is to raise R100 per kilometre or more.
The 50-year-old mom made her first stop in Vaalbank, between Magaliesberg and Koster, braving the elements and winding roads on her trusty tractor.
Els aims to reach Robertson on Saturday, 1 July. ‘ The tractor smokes a bit,’ she said during her stop on Monday. ‘But she’s not today’s tractor, so she’s allowed to smoke a little. It’s just white smoke anyway and we’re not worried about it.’
Marconette Els. Picture: Help Marconette Els Sponsor.Me
Landbouweekblad reports that the tractor maintains a speed of about 25kph.
When Els reached Hartbeesfontein, the local community was waiting for her. Even a group of tractor enthusiasts took on some of her journey with her on their own veteran tractors. They stopped at a Massey Ferguson dealer to check her tractor and to make sure she was ready for the next leg to Schweizer Reneke.
At least it wasn’t too cold on Monday, says Els, adding that the weather should remain pleasant for the next few days. However, she knows that the weather will start to turn the closer she gets to the Western Cape.
To help support Corné Els and her endeavour, visit the BackaBuddy page Tou Trekker Na Switzerland here. Alternatively, contact Els at 078 802 7911 or send an email to [email protected].
Shared by Cape Etc.
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Feature Image: Nieuwoudtville / Facebook
