Team Change of Heart: Two heart transplant recipients conquer the KAP sani2c Trail

THE KAP sani2c Trail delivered one of the most powerful stories in the event’s two-decade legacy, as Team Change of Heart completed the 265 km stage race with high spirits – and hearts full of meaning. At the centre of this achievement was 20-year-old Pedro Basson, now the youngest known heart transplant recipient in South Africa to complete a multi-day mountain bike race.

But Basson wasn’t riding alone. Alongside him was 56-year-old Billy Macleod, who completed his second sani2c since receiving a donor heart, making this the first known team of two heart transplant recipients to conquer one of the country’s toughest stage races – a feat that has captured national attention and delivered a powerful message of second chances.

Basson and Macleod, riding as part of Team Change of Heart, were joined by Steph Bester, CEO of AllLife, team captain, and Basson’s mentor as well as experienced cyclist, Guy Dudley. Together, they rode in support of Hero777, a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness for organ and tissue donation.

“I came into this race hoping to inspire someone,” Basson said, “but I leave inspired by every person who supported us – my teammates, my family, and most of all, my donor. This ride was for them.”

Basson’s journey, from transplant recipient to history-maker, reached a high point on Day 2, when he was the first team member to summit the infamous Iconic climb, a challenging ascent that has become a rite of passage in the sani2c legend.

Bester, now a seasoned sani2c veteran having completed his seventh edition, helped the team navigate the terrain – and the emotional weight of their mission.

“This wasn’t just a ride, it was a statement,” said Bester. “Pedro and Billy showed South Africa that life after transplant is not only possible – it can be powerful, adventurous, and full. I couldn’t be prouder to ride with them.”

The race was not without its challenges. Day 1 began with a major mechanical failure on Macleod’s bike but a fellow participant who had to withdraw due to injury – offered his own bike to Macleod so he could continue.

“Without Gareth’s generosity, I wouldn’t have made it,” said Macleod. “That one act of kindness helped me cross the finish line and reach my ultimate goal. It meant the world.” 

Behind the scenes, the team was supported by Liesl Viljoen and Janet Legemaate, founder of Hero777.

 “This race was never about just finishing,” said Legemaate. “It was about showing the country what organ donation makes possible. Two heart transplant recipients, finishing sani2c, smiling and strong – it’s a dream realised.” 

A Call to Action

With over 4,000 South Africans currently awaiting life-saving transplants, Team Change of Heart’s message is clear: organ donation changes lives – and transforms futures.

“We hope Pedro and Billy’s story inspires others to register, speak to their families, and make the choice to give life,” Steph said. “There’s another Pedro and another Billy out there waiting for hope – and you could be that hope.”

To register as an organ donor or learn more, visit www.odf.org.za

SUNDAY TRIBUNE