Bathu Sneakers Gifts Gauta BMX Boys After Their Journey
Bathu Welcomes BMX Heroes in Style
South African sneaker brand Bathu showed heart and heritage this week as it honored the incredible journey of the Gauta BMX boys by gifting them each two pairs of sneakers.
“The #GautaBMX boys pulled up to our Canal Walk store and we had the honour of gifting them 2 pairs each. 😁 Your grit, spirit, and passion are what ‘Walk Your Journey’ is all about. Thank you for inspiring us, one pedal at a time,”
Bathu shared in a heartfelt social media post.
Meet the Gauta BMX Boys
The trio of young cyclists—Gauta Mahlakoane (22), Karabo Mokoo (21), and Maxwell Ndou (24)—are members of the Gauta BMX club based in Burgersfort, Limpopo. Their name now resonates across the country following their extraordinary mission: cycling approximately 1,700 kilometers from Limpopo to Cape Town to inspire youth, advocate for healthy living, and bring attention to the social ills plaguing their community, such as drug abuse and gangsterism.
The Ride of a Lifetime
The journey began on April 2, 2025, and stretched over 13 intense days. Battling harsh weather, limited resources, and even injuries—like Maxwell Ndou’s temporary knee setback—the cyclists pressed forward with determination. Their resilience caught the attention of local communities, celebrities like DJ Karri, and a growing base of supporters who offered food, accommodation, and even protection in dangerous areas.
A Hero’s Welcome in the Mother City
The team rolled into Cape Town on Monday, April 14, 2025, greeted by a jubilant crowd, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, and other dignitaries. President Cyril Ramaphosa himself commended the young men for their courage and positive influence, while the Limpopo Provincial Government announced plans for an official welcome and a tour of iconic Cape Town landmarks.
Bathu: A Brand That Walks With Purpose
The encounter between the Gauta BMX boys and Bathu was more than a brand gesture—it was a meeting of missions. Founded by Theo Baloyi in 2015, Bathu was created to tell a proudly African story through sneakers. From humble beginnings selling 100 pairs to friends and family, Bathu now boasts over 30 stores and more than 300 employees nationwide. Its philosophy, “Walk Your Journey,” aligns perfectly with the spirit of the Gauta BMX riders.
Empowering Youth, One Step at a Time
Bathu has long been a champion of youth empowerment and social change. Its initiatives, including the “Bathu for Batho” program which aims to donate one million pairs of shoes to underprivileged learners, mirror the grassroots motivation behind the Gauta BMX club’s mission.
A Shared Story of Grit and Growth
As the Gauta BMX boys continue to inspire a nation with their story, their collaboration with Bathu adds another layer of meaning to their message. It’s a reminder that when passion meets purpose, remarkable journeys unfold—whether it’s on foot, on wheels, or in a pair of locally made sneakers.