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WITH a week to go before the start of the 2024 Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, Mimosa Cycling Club of Zvishavane, have declared themselves ready.
They are expected to provide the biggest contingent of cyclists.
The three-day event which starts on November 7-9 is held to promote wellness, business opportunities and raise funds for underprivileged but academic talented children.
Moses Charedzera a spokesperson for the organisers, said the annual event will see cyclists go through 328km different terrains.
“The event will start at Selous to Zvishavane, through Zimbabwe’s Great Dyke region, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant mining communities,” said Charedzera.
Mimosa Cycling Club captain Edson Mahaye revealed that some members of the team will join
the main group at the starting point in Selous, while some of the cyclists will participate in the
Mimosa lap which begins from Unki Mine, ensuring broad participation across the different laps
of the tour.
“We are looking forward to having a great time on the road, just like last year. The tour gives us
the chance to explore several towns and cities within the Great Dyke while enjoying breathtaking
views along the way,” he said.
Mahaye said the event has health benefits.
He encouraged communities to embrace the sport.
The Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, launched by YAFM of Zvishavane in 2016, has grown in popularity over the years, attracting cyclists from different sectors, including mining companies like Mimosa, Unki and Zimplats.
Taking part have been greats like Nkulumo Dube a former five-time national champion.
Another feature about the race is the promotion of community spirit by giving back to
charitable institutions.
Meanwhile, the Gifted Children Foundation, a beneficiary of proceeds from the upcoming
Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, has celebrated remarkable academic achievements among the
students it supports.
Speaking on the progress, Emily Hwengwere, the foundation’s co-ordinator highlighted the
organisation’s impact in helping students excel at primary, secondary and tertiary levels.
“So far, we have supported around 105 students returning to school, both at primary and
secondary levels. Among them, several have successfully completed A-levels, O-levels, and even
university degrees,” said Hwengwere.
She praised one of their success stories, a radiographer who earned a degree from the University
of Zimbabwe and later pursued a master’s in radiography.
Hwengwere acknowledged the achievements of another beneficiary who recently
completed a business management degree at Midlands State University.
“The collaboration of these organisations is crucial in ensuring students not only complete their
studies but also thrive in their chosen fields,” she said.
This year’s event is expected to attract over 300 cyclists.
Wilson Dube, 83 will be absent for the first time in seven years after suffering an injury at Siboza last year during the 2023 event.
Online Reporter