Iron Mac Imparts Important Message To South African Cyclists
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IRON Mac, better known as Carte Blanche presenter MacFarlane Moleli (Mac), embodies the saying ‘a promise made is a promise kept’. The promise he made was to complete the IRONMAN Championships in 2023, and he made this promise to a good friend André Piehl. But when André was tragically killed, by an alleged drunk driver, while cycling in January 2022, Mac pushed his promise to a whole new level.
“I was not only more determined than ever to complete IRONMAN after Andre’s passing but I was also determined to increase cycling safety awareness,” says Mac, who successfully completed IRONMAN on 5 March 2023.
This determination is exactly what prompted Mac to launch the ‘Promise to André’ campaign. The campaign combines sharing his journey towards IRONMAN 2023 with the promotion of cyclist safety. Mac’s preparation for IRONMAN included his recent participation in the Auto & General Cross Triathlon.
“This triathlon was a critical part of my training regime, teeing me up for IRONMAN,” says Mac. “It was also an opportunity to share my message with hundreds of like-minded athletes, all of whom understand and appreciate commitment to a goal, and the importance of cyclist safety.”
While word of mouth is extremely powerful, partnerships, sponsorships and investments are critical to amplify and sustain such Mac’s campaign. With his natural charm, charisma and winning smile, he had no trouble finding numerous willing supporters. Among them is Auto & General, who contributed towards ‘A Promise to André Fundraising Dinner’, an annual initiative to raise funds for the Pedal Power Association (PPA), which advocates for cyclist safety.
Auto & General shares the following safety tips for motorists and cyclists, from the Pedal Power Association:
Tips for motorists:
- Taking a left turn – indicate early and check behind you, to your left, for cyclists going straight, who you could potentially cut off when you turn.
- Never underestimate a cyclist’s speed – cyclists travel at up to 30km/hour, and this speed increases on a downhill. Look out as they approach from the opposite direction and don’t try to turn quickly in front of them.
- Only pass cyclists when it is safe – rather hoot to alert them that you’d like to pass. Once they are aware of your presence, you can safely overtake them.
- Allow cyclists at least 1 metre of space when passing – and increase this space in wet weather. Remember that cyclists may have to swerve unexpectedly to avoid obstacles you may not see, like glass or manholes.
- Check before you open your door – make sure there are no cyclists approaching before opening your car doors.
- Do not park or stop in cycle lanes – this is not only illegal, but it also puts cyclists in danger.
- Remember the basics – obey the rules of the road.
- Don’t drink and drive – this speaks for itself.
Tips for cyclists:
- Remain highly visible – wear bright clothing so that drivers can always see you. If you have to ride after dark or before sunrise, always wear reflective gear and turn on your lights for increased visibility.
- Signal to drivers when turning –if possible, also try and make eye contact to ensure they have seen you. Avoid taking drivers by surprise by driving in a straight, predictable line.
- Critical bike checks – alwayscheck your tyre pressure and brakes before you head out, to prevent a malfunction that could put you at risk.
- When possible, cycle in groups –this will help minimise the muggings and bike jackings that are reported daily. Connect with other cyclists on WhatsApp and join Pedal Power’s group training rides on Saturdays.
- Avoid cycling in the early morning – fatal hit-and-run crashes often happen between 4am and 7am. Also, avoid riding into the rising or setting sun, as you may not be visible to motorists.
- Don’t use your cell phone while cycling – this is both illegal and unsafe. Rather stop in a safe area if you need to use your phone.
- Report crashes and muggings to the SAPS and the Pedal Power Association. You can also WhatsApp the Pedal Power hotline on 081 043 9890.
- If cycling alone, avoid hotspots – cyclists riding alone are easy targets for criminals.
- Never cycle with earphones –this is illegal, and it reduces your awareness of what is happening around you.
- Don’t make assumptions – slow down and be extra cautious when approaching intersections, don’t assume drivers will stop at robots or stop streets.
- Cycle in single file – and always obey the rules of the road.
