Sibonokuhle Mboni [email protected]
ABOUT 200 cyclists are expected to take part in this year’s Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke which aims to raise funds and awareness for the Gifted Children Foundation, organisers have said.
Speaking at the kick-off at Zimplats in Selous event co-ordinator and spokesperson Moses Charedzera said the final headcount would be confirmed at the opening ceremony but registration pointed to around 200 riders.
“Our numbers are pointing to around 200 cyclists and quite a number will be joining us along the way,” he said.
Charedzera said the organisers had also mobilised schools with young cyclists set to join the convoy as it passes through each town and ride part of the route before the tour moves on to its final destination Zvishavane.
This year’s edition carries added significance with the launch of a book, The Great Dyke Book: Beyond the Rock written by Munyaradzi Hwengwere the chairperson of Minex. The book will be launched in Kwekwe this evening, with part of the proceeds going to the foundation.
“This year’s tour is very poignant because we have the first of its kind book,” said Charedzera.
Since its inception the foundation has supported learners through various stages of education from primary and secondary school to university adding up to 159 students.
Charedzera said organising an event of this scale was no easy task.
“It’s a big tour and part of the challenge is putting together the logistics,” he said.
He explained that the organisers had to ensure enough accommodation, transport for the crew and food so that the tour runs smoothly.
As the riders set off Charedzera summed up the mood of the day with a rallying call: “Today we cycle, we cycle and we cycle for the Gifted Children Foundation.”
The party will sleep in Kwekwe on Thursday evening and ride to Unki Mine via Gweru and Shurugwi town where they will stay overnight on Friday before embarking on the final leg on Saturday morning.
