CAPE TOWN - Goldy Fuchs, International Paralympic cyclist pleads for support in hopes to continue representing South Africa all the way to the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.
At the age of 5 months, Fuchs was involved in a car accident. This was a traumatic event in which he lost his father and sustained brain damage limiting the strength in his right arm, left leg and the vision of his left eye. As a result, this impaired his balance.
Classified as an asymmetrical quadriplegic, Fuchs participated in Para-cycling using a tricycle and has been competing internationally since 2010. A dream that started at the age of 12 after he discovered cycling. Fueled by his love for sport, Fuchs managed to receive Provincial Colours for cycling, swimming, and athletics.
During his time as a junior cyclist, Fuchs decided to take a risk and participated in the Senior T2 category. A risk that launched his career after securing first place in both the Time Trial and Road Race during the 2010 South African National Championships. Since then, Fuchs has participated in thirteen UCI Para-cycling Road World Cups, three Para-cycling Road World Championships, and one Paralympics.
“Competing Internationally gives me the chance to do what I love most. I see my cycling as a career and without competing internationally I would not be able to continue with cycling” said Fuchs.
Fuchs’ journey became much more challenging after his sponsor, Cycling South Africa, notified him that due to the lack of funds they would no longer be able to sponsor him. An obstacle that proved to be the very challenging. Goldy’s mother, Janine Fuchs said:
“In order for Goldy to keep on participating on International level, he will need to find a sponsor of approximately R120 000 per year. Goldy also needs a new tricycle frame to get on par with his competitors.”
Ms. Fuchs was determined on finding a new sponsor but after contacting as many businesses and private people as possible, she was not able to secure a sponsorship.
“We have three world cups and one World Championships per year. I need to participate in all three World Cups as well as the World Championships next year in order to secure a place and possibly be chosen for the 2020 Paralympics,” she said.
Currently preparing for this year’s World Championships, which will be held in Pietermaritzburg at the end of August, Fuchs stayed hopeful and optimistic when he said: “I have a ‘never give up’ attitude” and believed in upholding a positive attitude no matter what.
He pleads to the community for a helping hand and said: “I know I have the strength and ability to become World Champion and win medals at the Paralympics, but without financial support, my task will be too big” said Fuchs
*For more information or donations please contact Janine Fuchs at 082 4000 232 or email her at [email protected]