adminLovemore Dube in BULAWAYO
THE Zimbabwe national cycling champion will be crowned tomorrow after the Bulawayo leg of the series which begins today.
Cyclists from all over the country are expected to converge on Southwold Shopping Centre, the starting point of the event at 6.30am.
Michael Stuhardt, the spokesperson of Flying Eagles the organisers of the Bulawayo leg, confirmed that only licensed cyclists are eligible to participate in the different categories.
“This is a national event designated by the International Cycling Union (UCI), only licensed cyclists will take part in the different categories. Of note will be our local riders whom we expect to make an impact,” said Stuhardt.
He said on the veterans’ category they were looking forward to James Freeland, in the elite end Lawrence Khumalo, in the women’s Shirley Kaschula and Tracy Lee Harris are expected to be among the flag bearers for Bulawayo.
Nkulumo Dube, one of the rising stars in the land, will be expected to keep his good form intact with wins but from the capital he should be wary of the competition from Bright Chipongo.
Today’s event, which starts at Southwold, will be a 70km ride for the juniors and women and 120km for the elite men.
“On Sunday cyclists will engage in a time trial in which we expect fierce competition. Our cyclists have worked hard so far in the year and have been looking forward to this event.
“As organisers we are hopeful of putting up a good show and that credible performances will be witnessed during the course of the weekend and competition,” said Stuhardt.
The time trial event will start at the entrance of the Tshabalala Sanctuary and cyclists will battle it out in one minute intervals.
Two distances 40km for juniors and 50km for the elite and veteran cyclists have been set for the time trial.
Stuhardt expressed gratitude for being awarded an opportunity to play host to a prestigious event such as this one.
Prize-giving will be at Busters Sports Club at midday.
Online Reporter