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Writer's pictureManiapure Foundation

Meters for Lives

Two Venezuelan cyclists are biking across Morocco to raise funds for the Maniapure Foundation in the southern part of the Orinoco River.


Two intrepid Venezuelan cyclists, Alfredo Lasry and Daniel Mamopulakos (El Polako), are preparing to make their mark on the world of ultra-cycling while also contributing to a noble cause. These passionate athletes will participate in the BikingMan Morocco in September 2024, an endurance cycling event that will take them pedaling thousands of kilometers through the challenging Moroccan mountains.


An extreme challenge for a noble cause

Beyond the personal adventure, Lasry and Mamopulakos have decided to turn their participation into an opportunity to help others. For every meter of ascent during the race, which totals 20,000 meters, the cyclists pledge to raise one dollar. These funds will be donated to the Maniapure Foundation: a non-profit, non-governmental organization founded in 2000 to increase and improve quality medical care, bringing doctors, through an agreement with the Central University of Venezuela, to the more than 30,000 Creole and indigenous people of the Panare, Jivi, Pemón, and other ethnic groups, distributed throughout the state of Bolívar in Venezuela. Additionally, the foundation supports formal education, develops job training programs, and strengthens regional identity and the cultural values ​​of the region.


"It's not just about reaching the finish line," says Alfredo Lasry. "We want to show that sports can be a tool to generate a positive impact on our society. By combining our passion for cycling with our solidarity, we hope to inspire others to join this cause."

For his part, Daniel Mamopulakos, known as "El Polako," highlights the importance of challenging personal limits to achieve greater goals. "Ultra-cycling is a discipline that forces you to overcome your fears and find your inner strength. At the same time, it allows us to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of our planet."



EcoRiders: A growing community

Lasry and Mamopulakos are not alone in this adventure. They are both part of EcoRiders, a Venezuelan cycling movement that emerged during the pandemic as a way to maintain physical activity and a community spirit. Today, EcoRiders has more than 10 members who share a passion for ultra-cycling and the pursuit of new challenges.

BikingMan: A world-class endurance test

BikingMan is a renowned ultra-cycling competition held on different continents. Participants must be completely self-sufficient and face extreme weather conditions and difficult terrain. The Morocco edition promises to be one of the most challenging events to date, with steep climbs and long days of pedaling. THE ROUTE IS SECRET and the map is given to the competitors the night before the start of the race.


How to support the cause

To support Alfredo Lasry and Daniel Mamopulakos in their mission, you can donate from $3 and contribute to the number of meters you want through https://www.maniapurefoundation.org/metrosxvida. Your dollar is a great contribution, no matter how small it may seem, this small gesture will help the Maniapure Foundation continue its important work for indigenous people in remote areas.



Join us on this exciting journey!

The social networks of Maniapure (@fpmaniapure), Alfredo Lasry (@alfredo_lasry) and Daniel Mamopulakos (@polaksystem) will offer regular updates on their preparation for BikingMan Morocco and the progress of the fundraising campaign.

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