MALOPE CYCLING CHALLENGE RIDES ON KANYE TERRAIN
The 2019 edition of the Kgosi Malope II cycling challenge organised by Tsosa Motse (NGO) and the technical partner, Cycle 4 Life will be held in Kanye this weekend. It is the most exciting and yet toughest road race in Botswana, positioned to be a preparatory race for Cape Argus, international road cycling challenge which attracts more than 40,000 cycling enthusiasts to Cape Town South Africa. This is solely due to the Kanye village terrain which is similar to that of Cape Town with natural valleys and winding roads. According to a statement from the organisers, the event consists of 110km, 60km, 30km & 5km fun ride with price money ranging from P750 to P3500. The main objective of this race is to raise funds for community development projects and other initiatives that promote patriotism, self - reliance, independence, promotion of culture & preservation of history among communities. One of these projects, Mmalekwa Cemetery, a historical royal site in Kanye, has managed to raise P200,000.00 over the past 2 years. They have also managed to fund the formation of a new community cycling club, which is officially registered with the registrar of societies as well as donating P4,000.00 to the technical partners, Cycle4life to be passed on to a local disadvantaged beneficiary. This cycling race is supported by Debswana Jwaneng Mine as the main sponsor since its inauguration. Others like Ktu express, Naftec, UCB timing, Kanye Adventist Hospital are also sponsors for the 2019 event. The aim is to promote cycling, not only as sport for the elite but for everyone as a health & wellness, recreational and tourism activity. Despite challenge such as limited sponsorship, non-participation of the local authority, local casual’s low skill level etc, the idea is to position Kgosi Malope II cycling challenge as the epitome of road cycling across Africa & internationally by 2025. “We are expecting more than 200 cyclists. It immensely benefits local businesses such as hospitality, food & beverages, equipment hire etc as well as jobs for the youth. The value and business spinoffs are endless,” read the statement.