Curtain comes down on Umfurudzi bike race

THE exciting mountain bike challenge, which attracts hundreds of cyclists from across the country, concludes today at Umfurudzi Park in Shamva.

Over 200 cyclists are battling for the title in the event that began last Friday in Mashonaland Central.

On Day One, Friday, the cyclists covered 25 km and yesterday they rode a distance of 54 km. Today, the cyclists will ride the final 30 km to determine the winner.

Some of Zimbabwe’s top bikers, including Allan Winterton, are among the participants, with winners set to get a chance to represent the country at the upcoming regional competitions.

Acting manager for Umfurudzi Park, Mukululi Ndlovu said the event was growing big and expects more cyclists next year. “We are happy with the turnout which was an improvement from last year. It’s becoming one of the most exciting mountain biking competition in the country, “said Ndlovu.

“We are now in our fourth year and this is good for sports tourism as we expect more regional participants next year.”

Apart from the Umfurudzi Park mountain bike challenge, the Zimbabwe National Park and Wildlife Management Authority also hosts the Greater Mapungubwe cycling event where cyclists ride across Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa. “We host these cycling events in our parks to promote sports tourism as well as raising wildlife conservation awareness,” said Tinashe Farawo, Zimparks public relations manager.