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Innocent Kurira, Sports Reporter
THE Ngwana community of Bulilima East constituency is set to write its own piece of history when it hosts the first ever cycling tournament in the area on August 13.

Dubbed the Bulilima Cycling Tour, the inaugural event is set to start at Ngwana Primary School, 20 kilometres from Plumtree town.

The cyclists will compete in the 8,16km and 25km distances.

The race is open to all age groups and the cyclists are free to use any type of bicycle for the races, according to the organisers.

A number of cyclists have registered to take part in the two races and one of the surprise participants is the Minister of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu.

Ndlovu is also the Member of Parliament for Bulilima East Constituency. Another contestant is the famous cyclist Meli Ndlovu.

Fanisani Dube, the chairperson of the Event Co-ordinating team, said the cycling event is aimed at bringing together the people of Bulilima.

“Bulilima people like the rest of the people from South-West Zimbabwe were known for enjoying bicycle riding.

It was a means of transport, wellness, longevity and source of pride,” said Dube.

He said Minister Ndlovu and his team had, through the tournament, decided to turn back the hands of time.

“The fun-cycling event seeks to bring back nostalgic memories of yesteryears, the pride of Bukalanga.

It will serve as a reminder of how our forefathers moved with pride from point A to point B and at the same time keeping themselves fit.

No wonder they lived longer and healthy lives,” said Dube.

He said everyone was free to register for the cycling extravaganza.

“The event is open to all people, the young, the old, men and women.

It will also provide an interactive platform where some social ills such as drug abuse will be addressed.

The gathering is expected to come up with ways to educate the youths on the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse,” he said.

Dube said winners of the race will walk away with an assortment of prizes.

He said after the presentation of prizes which will be for the different categories such as the over 50s, ladies and the overall top three, participants will then enjoy braai and drinks.

“We expect the corporate world to come on board to make this tournament a success.

The tournament will also provide busineses in Bulilima and Mangwe districts a platform to advertise their products,” said Dube.

He said after the fun-filled fitness day that is expected to attract people from all age groups, there will be an after party street bash at the same venue and in the evening DJs will takeover at the area’s favourite joint, Chicken King.

Ngwana is well-known for a fierce battle which was fought between freedom fighters and settler regime soldiers during the liberation struggle.— @innocentskizoe