Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere in Zvishavane, Zimpapers Sports Hub
HAILING from Bulawayo, 56-year-old Robert Sinclair was the major highlight of the eighth edition of the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, which ended in Zvishavane on Saturday.
Energetic and full of charm, Sinclair became the first white participant in the annual event, which began last Thursday with a first leg from Selous to Kwekwe. The cyclists then took on the Kwekwe, Unki Mine stretch before completing the final lap to Zvishavane.
“I’m from Bulawayo. Cycling is my passion, and I’ve been doing this since 1993,” said Sinclair with a wide smile. “I’m not thinking of quitting yet. I’m still around till I don’t know when, and I really enjoy doing this. I’m also grateful to the organisers of the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke. This is a very noble idea.”
A proud former Northlea High and Hugh Beadle Primary School pupil, Sinclair was part of the Ralph Mthupha Bulawayo team that took part in this year’s edition. He trains around Queens Park and says his love for cycling was inspired by the late triathlete Mark Marabini.
“Partially, Mark Marabini was my inspiration before I decided to go full-time into cycling. It’s unfortunate that the corporate world in Bulawayo hasn’t been forthcoming in supporting triathlon or cycling. Unlike in Harare, where sponsors show up in numbers, we’re still hoping for the best,” said Sinclair, who also has a playful command of both isiNdebele and Shona.
Besides Sinclair, this year’s edition also drew several young and female riders. Nine women participated, led by 36-year-old Portia Chitendere, who has only missed one edition since the event’s inception.
“I’ve only missed this event once. I was one of the first female cyclists to take part, and I’m glad more women are now showing interest. It’s really encouraging, and I’m so grateful to have inspired my son, who’s here today because we need numbers,” said Chitendere.
Her 17-year-old son, Tinashe Temera, impressed by completing the entire Selous to Zvishavane route and finishing second in the juniors’ 20km boys race, behind Nyasha Murindini, with Prince Tichareva in third.
Other promising youngsters included 13-year-old Beloved Mandivinga of Zengeza Four Primary and 17-year-old Progress Guze from Muguta Secondary in Harare.
Previous editions have featured veterans like 83-year-old Sekuru Wilson Dube, who had cycled for 57 years and once covered the full Selous-Zvishavane stretch.
The corporate world once again pledged its continued support for the wellness-driven initiative.
Nedbank’s senior brand and marketing manager, Joel Gombera, said the bank remains committed to the cause.
“As a long-standing partner in Zimbabwe’s development journey, Nedbank is honoured to support this iconic event, which showcases athletic excellence and highlights the Great Dyke corridor. Our presence here reflects our commitment to sustainable partnerships with industry, government, and the people,” he said.
Zimplats general manager for the processing division, Louis Mabiza, said their involvement aligns with the company’s focus on well-being.
“For us at Zimplats, this partnership is a natural fit. Wellness speaks to our focus on safety, health, and employee well-being,” he said.
Other partners include Cell Insurance, Cycling Zimbabwe, Odyssey Lodge, the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, and Nyaradzo Group.
The Tour de Great Dyke is the brainchild of Minex chairperson Munyaradzi Hwengwere, and proceeds go toward supporting The Gifted Children Foundation, which pays school fees and provides educational assistance. So far, more than 100 children have benefited, with several now enrolled in tertiary institutions.
