Great Dyke Race praised for promoting sports tourism

NEDBANK Tour de Great Dyke organisers have been praised for bringing the start of the event to
Mashonaland West.

Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs Minister Mirriam Chombo, said events such as the 328km three-legged tour attract tourists to the province, helping businesses generate income.

“Events like this attract tourists, generate income for local businesses and create job opportunities.
The influx of visitors will benefit our hospitality sector, from hotels to restaurants to local artisans and
vendors.

“By showcasing the best of what Mashonaland West has to offer, we are not only promoting tourism
but also stimulating our economy,” said Chombo.

She said she is happy that locals too are involved in the tour which started at Zimplats, Selous Plant
and ends tomorrow in Zvishavane.

“I am particularly pleased to see the involvement of local communities in this event. The engagement
of our youth, women and various community groups demonstrates our collective effort to harness the
potential of sport as a tool for development.

“I encourage all participants to interact with the communities along the route, to learn about their
cultures and to forge connections that transcend provincial borders,” said the minister.

Munyaradzi Hwengwere, who came up with the idea in 2014 after the death of his mother who cared
for the community, said the event was in her honour.

The first event was held in 2016 and this year is the seventh hosting.

“It is unfortunate the event was born out of an unfortunate incident, but now supports 100s of kids
from primary school children up to secondary. Others up to university,” said Hwengwere.

The race started at Selous with individual cyclists and some from mining houses. It is not a competition tour but one promoting camaraderie among participants with promotion of
wellness key.

It also seeks to promote business opportunities and celebrate the Great Dyke, a mineral rich 550km
belt.

Cyclists, sponsors and partners went through Chegutu and Kadoma where there were stopovers for marketing purposes with fanfare provided by kids who came to learn more about the Great Dyke.

This morning cyclists will take off heading to Gweru and proceed to Shurugwi where they will sleep
over before completing the tour at Zvishavane’s Island Road at midday tomorrow.

Source