adminAnswer Sithole
THE Chokocha cycling challenge, an initiative by the residents of Chimanimani district ward 19 to raise funds for the construction of Changazi fall irrigation scheme took place on January 1.
The community is working on projects which include electrification of the area, road maintenance and supporting orphans and vulnerable members of the society.
Chokacha cycling challenge was an initiative that was set to mobilize funds from the community since the Changazi water project is now at a critical stage of construction.
Those members of the society who were able to participate in the challenge but not willing were requested to donate money or materials and then nominate two people of their choice take participate in the challenge.
This was a collaboration of Chikwakwa Development Association, Village development Association and ward 19 development committee.
Twenty cyclists had registered to participate in the challenge but only four managed to take part.
Simba Dhedheya, Upenyu Mhondera, David Simango and Cleopus Mutakura rode the 146 km form Mutare to Chikwakwa in wet weather.
Each bicycle was fitted with a speedometer and the maximum speed reached during the race was 53.3km/ hour.
Dhedheya cycled much of the distance form Mutare to Muuyu alone at an average speed of 16.4 km/hour where the other three cyclists joined him to Chikwakwa
The challenge was completed in 10 hours 15 minutes (6am to 4.15pm).
Chokocha challenge t- shirts were on sale for $15 each and this this was in a way of raising funds.
Dhedheya shared his racing experience and he said; “I have always enjoyed challenges but this Chokocha challenge was special because it was for transformation of my village.
“I cycled in great weather conditions though it rained a bit. The challenge was tough since I was riding alone in a busy road where you do not need to try to be ahead of a competitor. When the race started it seemed so easy but the rains made it very difficult to cope. The odds were against me but I pulled through.
“I was hoping that this would attract many cyclists to participate in such any event but a few turned out.
“The social networks we were using to mobilise people had been flooded with people who were willing to participate in the challenge but I believe it was the weather that seemed not to be friendly for such a sporting event. We used Facebook and whatsapp platforms to reach to wide range of people.
“Special thanks go to UBC church, my family and other members of the community for their support to Chokocha challenge and for the up keep of our well being during the race.”
Online Reporter