WATCH: Great Dyke race praised for sports tourism

NEDBANK Tour de Great Dyke organisers have been praised for bringing the start of the event to Mashonaland West. Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution Marian Chombo, said events like the 328km three-legged tour attract tourists to the province, helping businesses generate income.

“Events like this attract tourists, generate income for local businesses and create job opportunities. The influx of visitors will benefit our hospitality sector, from hotels to restaurants to local artisans and vendors.

“By showcasing the best of what Mashonaland West has to offer, we are not only promoting tourism but also stimulating our economy,” said Chombo.

She was happy that locals were also involved in the tour which started at Zimplats, Selous Plant and ends tomorrow in Zvishavane.

“I am particularly pleased to see the involvement of local communities in this event. The engagement of our youth, women and various community groups demonstrates our collective effort to harness the potential of sport as a tool for development. I encourage all participants to interact with the communities along the route, to learn about their cultures and to forge connections that transcend provincial borders,” said the minister.

Munyaradzi Hwengwere who came up with the idea in 2014 after the death of his mother who cared for the community, said the event was in her honour.

The first event was held in 2016 and this year is the seventh hosting.

“It is unfortunate the event was born out of an unfortunate incident, but now supports hundreds of kids from primary school children up to secondary. Others up to university,” said Hwengwere.

The race started at Selous with individual cyclists and some from mining houses. It is not a competition tour but one promoting camaraderie among participants with promotion of wellness key.

It also seeks to promote business opportunities and celebrate the Great Dyke, a mineral rich 550km belt. Cyclists, sponsors and partners went through Chegutu and Kadoma where there were stopovers for marketing purposes with fanfare provided by kids who came to learn more about the Great Dyke.

This morning cyclists will take off heading to Gweru and proceed to Shurugwi where they will sleep over before completing the tour at Zvishavane’s Island Road at midday tomorrow.