Ladies hit the road for confidence and cause

Video

GEORGE NEWS AND VIDEO - The sound of engines and laughter filled the air on Sunday 21 September as women from across the region gathered for the Ladies Ride & Treasure Hunt, an event sponsored by Honda Wing George.

The ride saw these women taking to the open road on their motorcycles, while those unable to ride joined in with their cars. The main mission was for them to build confidence and embrace their worth.

At the helm of the event was Maria Florio, the owner of Honda Wing George.

The Johannesburg-based Gerda du Toit (46), a brand ambassador for Honda SA, explained the goal. “We want more women on motorcycles. It’s about giving them self-confidence and helping them understand that they are beautiful and good enough just as they are. They don’t need to prove themselves to anyone.”

Participants of all levels met at Honda Wing George before setting off. The groups were marshalled by Johann van Tonder and his club, Coded MCC, who also guided the riders through various technical aspects.

Gerda du Toit and Shado Alston at Honda Wings George.

The riders made their first stop in Herold’s Bay, with both medium and intermediate groups gaining hands-on experience. “My bike enables me and gives me confidence,” said Du Toit. “I know my Africa Twin will take me anywhere.”

For Du Toit, who lost both her legs to diabetes, the event carries deeper meaning. She rides with prostheses obtained through fundraising and now leads the Riding for a Limb project, which has already helped more than 80 people receive prosthetic limbs. “I see myself as a tool to reach others,” she explained. “When someone loses a leg, it’s devastating. But I want them to see it’s not the end of the world.”

According to Du Toit, she is the only female bilateral amputee in the world still riding motorcycles. “Give yourself a purpose, and if you have one, live it out,” she says.

Gerda du Toit and her beloved Honda Africa Twin.

Beyond the ride itself, the event served as a reminder of the importance of self-care. “Women are always expected to just keep going no matter what. We don’t allow ourselves time to rest or clear our minds. This ride was about taking that time and doing it together,” says Du Toit.

Trix Osterloh and Gerda du Toit at Herold's Bay.