17 Oct 2022

The inaugural Khoemacau Copper Mine GM’s Lake Ngami Cycle Classic was held in Toteng on Sunday.

It attracted cyclists, runners and walkers from in and outside the country as well as some corporate organisations.

First Lady Neo Masisi, who was the guest cyclist, participated in the 30km race while her team members raced in different categories ranging from 60km, 106km to 140km.

Speaking during the award ceremony, the First Lady thanked the mine management for organising the fun filled event, which was intended to raise funds for charity activities in villages in the vicinity of the mine.
She said cycling was not all about raising funds, but offered a wealth of benefits and encouraged members of the public to embrace it to enhance their fitness and well-being.  Masisi said she was hopeful that next year, the event would be bigger and better.

She acknowledged Khoemacau mine’s efforts in uplifting the lives of the community.

The First Lady said the event would also support her gender based violence (GBV) cycling challenge campaign. She pleaded with men to protect, love and care for women and girl children.

She urged men to commit to ending GBV and challenged traditional leaders to relook at some cultural practices that fuelled GBV. “It is time for action as such incidents steal the victims’ beauty, health, dignity and self-esteem.

As such I challenge all sports men and women, faith based organisations, leaders and other stakeholders to join hands with the government to fight the pandemic,” Masisi stressed.

Khoemacau mine executive director, Boikobo Paya, said the event would be held annually with the proceeds distributed equitably into development projects in seven villages in the mine’s environs.

He noted that a small percentage of this year’s proceeds would be allocated to the First Lady to contribute to any organisation of her choice.

He appreciated the over 100 cyclists and 120 runners as well as walkers who all paid for participation.

He thanked Absa Bank, Motor Vehicle Accident Fund and Mascom for coming on board to support the event.

Meanwhile, Regnard Buttler from South Africa was crowned champion in the 140km in the elite category race, while Nonofo Maswabi from Jwaneng Cycling Club clinched first position in the women’s 106km race.

Abel Malepe came second fastest after Buttler, while Cycle for Life Club was recognized for being the best club.

Area MP, Dumelang Saleshando thanked the First Lady for her participation in the challenge.

He said he wished the event could grow bigger and better and continue making an impact in the community. ENDS