EXPERIENCING THE DIMENSION DATA TREK
Being a sports journalist goes far beyond just reporting on events and the shady, corrupt or unethical aspects of the industry. It’s about delving into the intricacies of the sport, understanding the nuances of the technical aspects, the social dynamics of the community, and the history and culture that underpin it. It’s a multifaceted and complex field that requires a deep level of knowledge and expertise.
Last month, I embarked on an enlightening adventure to deepen my understanding of cycling. The Dimension Data route 73 MTB Challenge offered a glimpse into the world of competitive cycling, complete with its intense competition and complex routes. The experience was both educational and captivating, and my appreciation for the intricacies of cycling journalism grew exponentially.
I can’t even begin to describe how amazing it was to explore the Dimension Data route. Starting and finishing at Stay Well Gardens in the Kgatleng District, we set out on a journey of discovery. The route was marked, and we began by navigating through small terrain, ducking under bridges, and cruising past Bokaa Dam and Lenganeng Mini Dam. The hills were no joke, but the views were unreal. Along the way, we crossed paths with a few other cyclists who were also training along the route in Preparations for the big day.
I was fortunate enough to have some veteran cyclists from Cycle for Life cycling club accompanying me. They were kind enough to explain the course markings, water points, terrain, and the techniques and speeds needed to navigate the challenging sections. The views of the dams were breathtaking, and they told me that one of the goals of the race was to give cyclists an adventurous experience.
Exploring the route deepened my appreciation for cycling and broadened my understanding of the sport. This experience will undoubtedly serve me well as I seek to cover other sporting codes in the future. The knowledge I gained on this journey will make my reporting on any sport more effortless and engaging for the readers.
As a reporter who is eager to expand my knowledge, I attended the Dimension Data route 73 MTB Challenge race day to test the knowledge that i recently gained. Armed with newfound confidence, I arrived at the race with an acute awareness of what the cyclists were about to endure. Witnessing the race firsthand, I gained a profound appreciation for the magnitude of the challenge and the determination of the athletes. It was a testament to the importance of preparation and prior experience.
The big takeaway from all this is that a true sports reporter goes above and beyond to gain a comprehensive understanding of the sports they cover. It’s not just about covering the games, it’s about grasping the nuances of the sport, the experiences of the athletes, and the broader cultural context.