Unicyclist Ethan, 14, is a ‘wheel’ hero

At just 14 years old, Ethan Simpson completed the Cape Town Cycle Tour on a unicycle, making him possibly the youngest rider ever to accomplish such a feat, according to race representative David Clarke.

“We hardly ever get more than about three unicyclists, sometimes none. We just can’t be sure based on how it is saved in the results. But I don't remember ever having one that young,” says Mr Clarke.

Ethan is thrilled with his achievement. It feels amazing to finish the 109km race on a unicycle," he said.

This wasn't Ethan's first crack at the race, but it was his first attempt on a unicycle.

During the lockdown in 2020, Ethan stumbled upon an article about unicycles and decided to give it a try. What started as a hobby soon turned into a passion.

"I started riding the Cape Town Cycle Tour in 2022 with my father on a tandem, then in 2023, I rode it on a normal bike. During that time, I was already riding a unicycle, so I thought it would be an awesome challenge to ride it on a unicycle," he said.

Ethan's parents, Nicola and James Simpson, responded with encouragement when he expressed his desire to take on the daunting challenge.

"Once he showed his dedication, we were fully behind him and worked with him to ensure he put in the time on the road and had the necessary support," his mom said.

Ethan started training in December under the guidance of David Eave who has done the Cape Cycle Tour 36 times including six times on a unicycle.

"He taught me a lot about long-distance unicycling," Ethan said. "I started with small training rides of about 20km and gradually worked my way up to 80km.“

Ethan encountered several challenging sections during the race.

"When I reached Misty Cliffs, I wasn't in pain yet, but I had to battle mentally because all I could think about was the distance still ahead," he said.

"The real pain started to set in on Chapman's Peak. I attempted to ride up Suikerbossie feeling confident for a moment, but then my leg cramped up, and I had to walk. What kept me going was the incredible support from the spectators along the roadside, cheering us on. I knew I had to finish.“

And finish he did with a time of 7:36:45.

Not only did Ethan complete the race on a unicycle, but his ride also raised funds for an organisation close to his family's heart.

"A couple of years ago, when we lived in Dubai, my mom battled cancer. During her treatment, my parents were inspired to raise funds for a children's cancer foundation in Zimbabwe called KidzCan by running a marathon in Myanmar just three months after my mom completed her treatment,” he said.

When they moved to Cape Town, they sought out a similar foundation that helps children cope with cancer.

“We found CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa who does incredible work supporting kids with cancer, providing them with love and assistance through houses near hospitals during their treatment. The people who work there are truly kind-hearted,” he said,

Ethan's family started doing the ride three years ago as a tribute to a dear friend, Axel Marggraf, whom they lost in 2021.

"Axel had completed 20 Cape Town Cycle Tours, so we dedicate this ride to him and to support CHOC," said Ethan.

Ethan’s parents are very proud him.

“Simply riding a unicycle is an achievement in itself. Covering 109km on a unicycle is truly remarkable regardless of age. It's important to note that a unicycle only moves when you pedal, as there are no gears, so there's no coasting—you have to ride every metre of the way,” said his mom.

Through his efforts, Ethan was able to raise more than R56 000 for CHOC.

"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported me on this journey. A special thank you goes out to my parents and grandfather for their support during the training rides, and I'm especially grateful to Dale Robinson and David Eave. Dale accompanied me throughout the entire ride wearing a CHOC cow suit to ensure my safety, and David played a crucial role in teaching me how to ride long distances on a unicycle,” he said.

Lynette Muthuray, the regional manager of the provincial CHOC office, said the money Ethan raised would greatly help children diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders.

“This is an amazing achievement and requires intensive months of preparation, discipline, mental strength, and perseverance... The success of CHOC would not have been possible without selfless people such as Ethan. Well done to him.”

In addition to his cycling prowess, Ethan is also keen on kayaking, canoe polo and table tennis.

"I'm also an active member of the scouts, belonging to 2nd Fish Hoek, and I enjoy spending some time drumming."

Now that Ethan has conquered the Cycle Tour, he's already eyeing his next big challenge.

"I aim to embark on an epic adventure across South Africa on my unicycle, covering approximately 1600km from coast to coast.“