Peet is Cycling from PE To CPT To Keep Ubuko Moving Forward
Good Things Guy | 17.02.2026 20:41
After losing his arm in a hijacking, Peet Neethling is turning his survival into a mission. He’s embarking on an incredible coastal ride to change how disability is seen and to champion Ubuko Mpotulo – a teen whose resilience is as inspiring as the journey itself.
Eastern Cape, South Africa (17 February 2026) – Upon first introduction, Peet Neethling prides himself as a husband, dad of three, proud grandfather of 11 grandkids, and a businessman who also happens to be an in-shoulder amputee. In this exclusive feature, we celebrate his athletic heroism, which will ensure a young man is fitted with a new prosthetic he needs to keep moving forward.
Peet has always enjoyed supporting a worthy cause on the open road from his bike, having ridden with the Grandads Army for years, where he helped raise funds for the Eyabantwana for the Children’s Trust.
In April 2023, his life took an unexpected turn when he was hijacked and shot and lost my right arm above the shoulder.
“I needed to find purpose for my life,” he tells us.
Cycling gave Peet his life back, and he decided to pedal from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town to raise awareness for people living with limb differences from 26 February to 5 March. Over time, however, the purpose of his cycle tour has also grown into something more.
“My spirit was committed, but unfortunately, the support was not forthcoming. That’s when I learned about Ubuko Mpotulo, and it gave me a real reason to do this tour to raise funds for him.”
Ubuko is a bursary student at Selborne College. When he was two years old, he contracted meningococcal meningitis, a fast-acting disease that cost him both his legs and seven of his fingers.
Three years ago, the school community rallied to raise funds for Ubuko to be fitted with a mechanical hand. A team of friends and athletes, together with Selbourne College educator and co-founder of EduSport Jono Kruger, ran from Gqeberha to East London over six days to champion the cause.
Ubuko is now 17 years old and needs to be fitted with a new prosthetic due to growth. This is where Peet has stepped in, undertaking his inspirational cycle to help raise funds to keep Ubuko moving forward.
“When I met Ubuko through Jono, I was immediately touched by the humbleness of this youngster, and my heart just went out to him. Knowing that I’m going to be able to contribute in a small way to help make his life better. He’s an incredible youngster, and I definitely will ride for him again in the future,” a determined Peet shares.
Peet upholds a simple yet powerful mantra: “Where your challenges start is where your dream begins”. He’s participated in numerous cycling events, including one from Zimbabwe to East London, but this one is deeply personal and will be a true honour to a deserving youngster.
To support his heartfelt mission for Ubuko as well as change how disability is seen, donate here.
