20 Sep 2022

The much anticipated Southern Epic Cycling Challenge was launched in Gaborone on September 19.

Formerly known as Kgosi Malope Cycling challenge, Southern Epic, the road race will be held in Kanye next month.

The last edition of the then Kgosi Malope Cycling was in 2020 and it now returns under the new name.

Absa Bank Botswana, High Commission of India, Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture as well as KBL are some of the partners of the cycling event.

Absa corporate banking director Lesley Bradley, said they were encouraged by the previous work done for community development.

“It is important to acknowledge that this challenge not only brought together cyclists, but also raised funds to support the development of an important historical site,” she said.

She said the organisers illustrated that it was possible and beneficial to leverage popular sporting events with raising awareness and much needed funds for impactful community programmes.

She therefore encouraged the organisers to diligently continue their journey of developing opportunities especially for the youth.

Bradley said as a bank, they recognise and appreciate the importance that sport plays in communities they operate in, and assured their support where possible.

“We remain committed to playing a meaningful role in communities in which we work in.

It is a responsibility that we take very seriously as we understand that the long-term sustainability of any community is dependent on the combined efforts of us all,” she said.

Furthermore, Bradley said through Southern Epic cycling challenge, opportunities would be made available for entrepreneurs in the area preparing to welcome the participants of the challenge.

She said the event will have an impactful economic boost to the local community.

Team Swift Cycling club comes in as technical partners, and technical director David Lebalelo noted that the race will be run as per the rules and regulations governing cycling races.

“We are here to provide the technical aspects of a race and ensure that they are adhered to as per Botswana Cycling Association (BCA) standards,” Lebalelo said.

He mentioned that the prize money for the race is P100 000, with the race categories of Elite, Under23, Vets, Juniors, Youth and Masters.

The race distances range from 120km, 60km as well as 30km which will be an open fun ride.

Southern Epic Cycling challenge logistics manager Utlwanang Gasennelwe said this event seeks to promote sport tourism in Southern district as well as help boost the economy of the district. 

He said they aim to instill the spirit of self-reliance and community service among the district residents.

He said in the past they helped in the renovation of the Royal cemetery - Mmalekwa graveside, but said this year they have added more for charity.  Therefore, he said all proceeds will go to charity.

Some of the donation from this race event, will go towards early childhood development in Southern district, and the identified village being Sekhutlhwane. Ends