Iztok Kočevar from Maribor covered more than 2,000 kilometres for a childhood dream: On the way he braved storms, flooded roads and difficult climbs

A Slovenian cyclist has completed a 2,041-kilometer journey from Maribor to Sicily over 12 days, raising funds for children's dreams through his charitable cycling project. Iztok Kočevar concluded his second fundraising ride at the cathedral in Palermo, having traversed more than 18,854 meters in elevation along the way. His route was marked by challenges including thunderstorms, flooded roads, demanding climbs, and moments requiring adjustments due to changing conditions. The journey began on October 4 near the oldest market in Maribor, where approximately 15 cyclists accompanied Kočevar initially. Some rode with him for part of the trip, while others continued further into Italy. Four cyclists remained with him for 200 kilometers until Valbruna in Italy. The following day brought a longer stage, stretching 260 kilometers from Valbruna to Rovigo, partly along the former Alpe-Adria railway track. Local business owner Luka Rakuša and Kočevar's daughter Karin joined him on the third stage to Florence. Snapper Denis Janežič documented parts of the journey with a camera, accompanying Kočevar up to the fifth stage before he continued alone. From there, Kočevar traveled deeper into southern Italy, carrying all necessary supplies on his bicycle due to limited storage space. He had to carefully pack only essential items for the remainder of the trip. Weather conditions significantly impacted the planned stages. On the sixth and seventh days, heavy rain, thunderstorms, flooded road sections, and poor road surfaces forced several changes to the itinerary. Kočevar had to shorten two planned routes and occasionally stopped due to punctured tires. Italy presented additional challenges beyond weather. In Naples, he encountered familiar faces and enjoyed meals with local friends. Hosts, particularly innkeepers, supported him multiple times and were curious about why he chose to cycle from Slovenia to Sicily. After rainy days, sunny weather returned, allowing Kočevar to continue along the Italian coast toward the country's southernmost regions. A ferry took him to Sicily, where his daughter met him and accompanied him for the final three stages on the island. Sicily offered breathtaking views but also challenging ascents. In the last three stages, Kočevar conquered 6,000 meters in elevation, including the climb up Mount Etna, which he eagerly anticipated before the trip. After ascending the volcano, he continued towards the coastline and faced the final kilometers through lively and traffic-choked Palermo. After 12 days on his bike, Kočevar completed his journey in front of the imposing Palermo cathedral. His journey started with the desire to help children realize their dreams, just as he did last year when he cycled to Istanbul. The numbers, 12 days, 2,000 kilometers, are not what matter most. What matters are all the moments he experienced on the road, which have been numerous. It wasn't always easy. Sometimes because of the weather, other times because of demanding roads. But now, standing at the finish line, he feels satisfied, happy, and content that he embarked on this journey and successfully completed it. Because reaching the destination is never guaranteed.