SPORT REPORTER
CHEGUTU-Exide Batteries, a leading battery and solar accessories company has donated a 2kv solar system to 83-year-old Wilson Dube who has been cycling for 57 years as a thank you gesture for supporting the Nedbank Great Dyke Tour since its inception in 2016.
The donation was handed over by the Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution Marian Chombo and the company’s operations manager Pamela Magura on Thursday.
Dube was the key highlight of this year’s 7th Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke where 108 cyclists participated in the 328km stretch from Selous in Mashonaland West province to Zvishavane in the Midlands Province.
The event supports the charitable needs of the Gifted Children Foundation, which pays for tuition fees for underprivileged children in the Great Dyke region and beyond.
“I want to thank Exide Batteries for this big gesture which encourages other cyclists to keep cycling.
“I started cycling in 1966 until last year when I was involved in an accident. I am delighted that this event has been revived and has been successful since its inception in 2016,” he said.
Magura said the company will always support the Great Dyke Tour.
“We will always support this cause and we have honoured Dube for his resilience and determination since this cycling programme was introduced in 2016. We want to thank him,” she said.
Young Felix Phiri (12 ) was also part of the cycling team .
He said he was inspired and trained by his father and Dube’s cycling antics.
“My dream is to go international and compete at the highest level,” said the youngest participant.
Nedbank human resources Manager Enerst Chisi reiterated their commitment to supporting the initiative which promotes physical wellness.
“As Nedbank, we should ensure that we give back to our communities through pro-active social corporate responsibility. We will continue to sponsor this positive cause given that proceeds are supporting the needy and vulnerable,” he said.
Chombo expressed gratitude to the private sector and cyclists for promoting a positive community cause.
“The Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke is more than just a sporting event, it represents an opportunity for unity and collaboration. It highlights our province’s stunning landscapes, from the majestic Great Dyke mountains to the vibrant communities that call this region home. Cycling through our beautiful terrain offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty and cultural richness of Mashonaland West Province.
“I am particularly encouraged to know that part of the proceeds from the tour are channeled to the Gifted Children Foundation, which supports brilliant but underprivileged students. That’s why you will see learners lined up along the road, cheering the cyclists. Moreover, this event promotes healthy living and an active lifestyle, encouraging our youth to engage in physical activities.”
The Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke was launched in 2016 to promote wellness, love for the environment and raise awareness of investment opportunities in the Great Dyke Geological Complex.
To date, the foundation has supported over 100 children, with some of them progressing to tertiary education institutions.
The tour will end in Zvishavane on Saturday.
The tour is sponsored by Nedbank and mining companies like Unki, Mimosa, Zimplats and supply companies like Exide Batteries, Nyaradzo Group, Simbisa Brands, Pote Holdings, Dendairy Cimas among others.
