Otse MTB challenge this weekendthis weekend

The Otse Expedition Trails mountain bike challenge hosted by Daniel and George Cycles is expected to test local off- road riders in some of the rough and rugged terrains of Otse this weekend. The event was postponed back in July following the imposed lockdown. The race that includes both the 35km and 50 km stages will take riders across Otse village along the challenging terrain of the majestic Lentswe la Baratani hill. Addressing a press this week, one of the organizers, Daniel Mophuting of D and G Cycles, said the event scheduled for this Sunday at Baratani Lodge aims to amplify tourism awareness in Otse village and surrounding areas.

“This race will also give us an opportunity to put on display the hidden potential of tourism in the Southern part of the country. We hope to stimulate economic activity in the Otse area as they will provide an opportunity for some of the residents to sell face masks.”

Although Cycling is a noncontact sport, only 50 riders will be allowed to participate with spectators not allowed to attend the competition. This is done to adhere to Covid- 19 regulations which are imposed by government.

“We have a limited number of only 50 riders and this will be a strictly racing event where competitors will be expected to go home immediately after the race as per government social distancing rules.”

The MTB challenge will also provide awareness for non- motorized transport and showcase the advantage of cycling instead of using motor vehicles for short distance journeys during the Covid- 19 pandemic. According to Mophuting, the event will be the first of its kind in the village. “Next year we hope to organize a bigger event where we will include an element of overnight camping in what might be a two - day event.”

Moreover, the off- road mountain bike is more suited to the environment of Botswana as the terrain accommodates the races. Nonetheless, the main challenge is that local drivers in road races are not yet keen on sharing roads with cyclists. The race organizer said the 35km trial is more suited to beginners while the 50km event is targets the more advanced or professional riders.

Some of the race sponsors include Motor Holding Botswana, Baratani Lodge, Happy Soul Advertising travel and tourism, D& G Cycles, Orbit Tracking Geo Satellite and KGM Consultants.