Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe [email protected]
MORE than 100 cycling enthusiasts drawn from across the country are set to ignite the 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) when they take part in the much-anticipated 100 Miler Classic race on April 19.
The race, a collaboration between the ZITF Company and the Flying Eagles Cycling Club, is billed as a dynamic curtain raiser that blends endurance, passion and community engagement, while offering participants and spectators an early taste of the energy surrounding this year’s premier trade showcase.
Cyclists will traverse the route from Gweru to Bulawayo, transforming the journey into a celebration of sport, discipline and connection, while showcasing the country’s scenic landscape to both local and international audiences.
The flagship 100-mile race will begin at 6:30am from Fairmile Hotel in Gweru, while the 50-mile and 25-mile races will start from Insiza and Mbembesi respectively.
All competitors are expected to converge at Khumalo Hockey Stadium in Bulawayo, with the cut-off time set for 1300 hours, organisers said.
In a statement, ZITF Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager, Mr Thandolwenkosi Nkomo, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative.
“We are excited to be raising the ZITF 2026 curtain with a cycling extravaganza that embodies the spirit of excellence, connections and energy that transcends ZITF 2026,” said Mr Nkomo.
He added, “This event is an opportunity for sports fans, exhibitors, locals and international visitors to kick off the show with a challenge that allows them to compete in a cordial atmosphere while enjoying the beauty of the Zimbabwean landscape.”
Beyond the competition, the event underscores the growing importance of sport as a complementary feature to major economic and exhibition platforms such as ZITF.
It offers cyclists a competitive yet inclusive stage to test their endurance, while also creating an engaging platform for sports fans, exhibitors, locals and international visitors to interact ahead of the main exhibition.
The race is expected to enhance the overall ZITF experience by drawing diverse participants into Bulawayo ahead of the exhibition, boosting early activity in the city while promoting wellness, tourism and social cohesion.
Flying Eagles Race Coordinator, Anton Bhana, said preparations were at an advanced stage, with strong interest recorded across the race categories.
“We have over 150 cyclists registered across the various categories from all over the country.
“As we prepare the race packs, you can feel the excitement and anticipation growing within the cycling community.
“The Flying Eagles team is working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure this will be the most memorable 100 Miler yet.
“What we are building is special. It’s about pushing your limits and achieving your goals.
“From novice to elite, watching every cyclist cross the finish line is the most rewarding part of the race. We can’t wait,” he said.
The 100 Miler Classic carries a rich legacy dating back to the 1960s, when it attracted international competitors from as far afield as Portugal and South Africa, cementing its status as one of Zimbabwe’s enduring endurance races.
The benchmark for the men remains in the hands of Keith Stacey, who clocked a remarkable 3 hours and 33 minutes , a time that, despite the uncertainty surrounding its exact date, continues to stand as the gold standard for aspiring cyclists.
