The South African live events industry joined hands with #WeMakeEvents, and participated in #TheSurvivalTour, which saw 24 cyclists participate in a 60km route visiting Constitution Hill, Teatro at Montecasino, Sandton Convention Centre, Nelson Mandela Square, Joburg Theatre, Market Theatre, Mary Fitzgerald Square and the TicketPro Dome on 24 October in Johannesburg. The tour aimed to raise awareness of the plight of millions of people in the events industry who have not been able to work due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Everyone loved #TheSurvivalTour South Africa,” said Chris Pugh, who led the pack. “There were a few complaints about the hills and heat, but there was great spirit amongst all the riders. It was so popular that I’ve had requests to do it again, and we hope to add a new route with more venues in the near future.”
Many industry players cut their teeth at some of the venues on the journey, and there was a tangible feeling of loss amongst the riders, seeing the once busy spaces now standing empty. “A venue like the Sandton Convention Centre is where I learnt the trade and started my career in my younger days,” said Chris. “We all felt a sense of nostalgia and sadness, seeing the devastation Covid-19 has left behind.”
On behalf of South Africa, an enormous thank you to #WeMakeEvents for giving us the opportunity to support a world-wide cause, and a BIG shout out to the South African riders for all the photos you took along the way and for being part of #TheSurvivalTour.
