Back in November 1983 a group of 76 free-spirited motorcyclists, each bearing a child’s toy, met in Cape Town for the first ever Charity Toy Run. A similar group did the same, simultaneously, up in Johannesburg.
The Toy Run – bikers collecting toys for children up to the age of 18 in orphanages across the country – has grown into a massive event and this year an anticipated 50 000 participants are expected at around 25 locations throughout SA.
Please click on the following links for Toy Run info in other South African centres:
The only requirements for entry are:
- a valid biker’s license
- registered motorcycle
- crash helmet
- and of course a toy!
While many associate teddy bears and plush soft toys with the event, the organisers are keen to point out that toys and games for children of both sexes and all ages up to 18 are required.
Cape Town 2009 Charity Toy Run
Members of the public who cannot participate in the actual ride may meet up at the end venue (for example Maynardville in Cape Town) – and bring their toy or game along to add to the pile for distribution. There are also drop-off centres throughout the country for those who wish to make donations but who unable to get to the main event venue.
See the Cape Town 2009 Toy Run routes here - both Northern and Southern suburb routes end at Maynardville.
Cape Town 2009 Toy Run Road Closures
- New Ottery Road will be closed at the intersection of ld Strandfontein Road for the duration of the procession.
- Ottery Road will be closed at the intersection of Rosm Avenue for the duration of the procession.
- The left lane of Kromboom Parkway at the link onto Settlers' Way will be coned off during the procession.
- The left lane of Settlers' Way at the link onto Union venue Settlers' Way will be coned off during the procession.
- Riverstone Road will be closed at the intersection of Main Road for the duration of the procession.
- Church St from Brodie to Aliwal Rd closed to motor vehicles to allow for kerb side parking from 8:45am
Spectators are anticipated to line the streets to watch the appealingly incongruous site of leather-clad bikers, sitting astride colourfully festooned motorcycles and clutching their cuddly gifts, ride by.
For more information please go to the official website or email the organisers.
The Toy Run® now has a donation line!
PLEASE SMS the word "toy" to 39055 to support the Toy Run® - providing toys for underprivileged children. SMS charged at R15, SP deducts costs
This an official initiative being run by the Toy Run® trademark holders (the IMOC CT Charity Toy Run Trust) and any queries can be directed to info@toyrun.co.za
(Image by Danie van der Merwe. Creative Commons License)
