“We start every day with a prayer because we are on the highway and exposed to traffic-related dangers,” said Simon Says, a motivational speaker for The Bigg Pull. “We are well protected by security companies and the police. When fatigue sets in, it’s not just about physical strength; you have to dig deep emotionally and spiritually and draw strength from the teammates around you.” 

The organisers also involved charities when the event was first held 23 years ago. This year, they decided that each of the 20 selected participants, comprising men and women, would represent a charity.

“Each power team member represents a charity. When we started discussing this with the different team members, one of them said they wanted to pull for Girls and Boys Town. It really came from the heart.”

“Today, one of our charities, Irene Homes, has travelled all the way from Pretoria to join us on the road, and their representative is pulling for them. We are aiming to raise R30m for them,” said Wayne Price, producer and founder of The Bigg Pull.

He said the participants cover between 45km and 50km every day for 40 consecutive days as they pass through Bloemfontein. While they are physically trained for the challenge, he said the biggest test is mental strength, unity, and team spirit, as participants must motivate one another to keep going.

The Bigg Pull. Photo: Sibongile Selomane

The challenge also gives participants a better understanding of the hardships faced by the people and animals supported by the charities they represent. Experiencing these realities has been humbling for the team and has encouraged them to take action by raising funds rather than simply creating awareness.

“We are not just pulling and raising funds. We want to make a difference rather than simply feel sorry for those in need,” said Price. The aim of the challenge is to raise funds for the charities; financial support is essential for organisations to continue their work and improve the lives of those they assist.

“We are encouraging the public to follow our journey through the livestream and social media platforms. We have already had more than two million views, and we want people to continue following and supporting the charities.”

He said the event is about bringing hope and turning public support into meaningful change, rather than simply expressing good intentions.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa dg

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