Albert Milton Cycle Challenge Returns
CYCLING The next edition of the Albert Milton Charity Cycle Challenge is scheduled to take place from August 14th to 15th. The cycle route will start from Gaborone, pass through Kang Village, and finish in Ghanzi, covering an epic 620 km. The race, dubbed AM 620, is in honor of the late former Debswana Mining Company General Manager, Albert Milton, an avid road cyclist who started the Morupule Cycling Club. Milton would have turned 62 this year, hence the 620 km distance.
In an interview with BG Sport this week, one of the race organizers and trustees of the recently launched Albert Milton Foundation, Gaone Mogae, said preparations for the epic cycle race are ongoing following the previous years' 570 km and 600 km races, commemorating Milton’s respective birthdays. “Preparations are going ahead as planned, and we have numerous sponsors onboard, including Naledi Mining, Komatsu, and Bomaid. We have a dedicated team currently training to complete all 620 km, while some cyclists are not expected to finish the entire race. When sponsors give us money, we have to ensure that we conclude the event. So far, we have cyclists from different clubs, including Tsela Riders, who will be competing in the race.
We encourage both women and young people to participate,” she said. Mogae added that they plan to have 20 dedicated cyclists in the race, while some corporate riders are expected to ride shorter distances. “Thus far, there are riders training together, while others are training alongside them through the Strider cycling app. This will be our third installment of the event, having started in 2020 with the Majwe AM 570 Challenge. Back then, we did not have a foundation, yet we managed to raise P2.4 million, while the 2022 Komatsu AM 600 raised P1.8 million,” she said. Mogae noted that all the money goes to charitable projects, funding various equipment, from scanners for local schools to breast cancer screening machines.
Speaking during the launch of the Albert Milton Foundation in Gaborone this past week, the First Lady of Botswana, Neo Masisi, said the establishment of this foundation marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards nation-building and community development. “Today, we gather to celebrate the vision and generosity of the Milton family. Their enduring commitment to philanthropy has left an indelible mark on countless lives, and their dedication to giving back has not gone unnoticed.
It is through their efforts that we see the true spirit of Botho – the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity,” Masisi said. She continued: “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the board members of the Albert Milton Foundation – Gaone Mogae, Nigel Dixon-Warren, and Albertinah Milton. Taking on the responsibility of guiding such an important institution is no small feat, and I commend you for your dedication and leadership. I wish you all the success as you embark on this noble journey to continue the legacy of a remarkable man.” Masisi emphasized that Albert Milton was a sterling nation-builder and a true philanthropist. His commitment to community upliftment and development was evident in all he did.
Among his many endeavors, he founded the Morupule Cycling Club, not only for the well-being of the employees but, most importantly, to raise funds for charity. “His passion for cycling saw him take on challenges such as the 400 km Gaborone to Mahalapye Lotsane ride, which raised significant funds for those in need. While in Jwaneng, he also started the Jwaneng Cycling Club, further demonstrating his dedication to promoting health and philanthropy through sports.” Masisi continued: “Albert Milton's untimely passing was a great loss to our nation, but his legacy continues to inspire us. As the Managing Director of Debswana, he led with integrity and a heart full of compassion. Today, we honor his memory and celebrate the values he stood for.” Masisi went on to say she had the distinct honor of participating as a guest cyclist in both of these activities. 'These events not only raised substantial funds for worthy causes but also highlighted the importance of involving young people in sports.”
Speaking during the same occasion, Albertina Milton, the widow of the late Albert Milton, said the First Lady has been instrumental in their journey. “The AM Cycling Challenges have been a significant part of this effort, beginning with the AM 570, a tribute to Albert's age at 57 years, and our shared commitment to community service. This challenge, which started with the support of Majwe Mining and later saw incredible success with Komatsu, raised substantial funds for various community needs. Thanks to you, this is something that we can all be proud of,” she said.
This year, Milton said they are preparing for the AM 620 Cycling Challenge, and she exuded excitement and gratitude for the support from corporate partners and the enthusiastic participation of cyclists, with the youngest being 20 years of age. “The challenge is not just about the kilometers we cover but the lives we touch and the communities we uplift. This year's ride, with the First Lady as its chief cyclist, promises to be a milestone event as we push beyond 620 kilometers, a relentless drive to do more and give more.”