25 Jul 2023

This year’s Dimension Data Route73 MTB challenge will see cyclists and spectators enjoy the event under new technology as Cycle4Life Cycling Club, together with Dimension Data Botswana, deliver a connected cycling experience.

Dubbed the Connected Race, the Dimension Data Route73 MTB challenge, which will be in its sixth edition, will be held on August 12 at a venue yet to be announced and will feature the 73km and 54km distances as well as 30km corporate and fun rides and the kiddies ride.

A racemap GPS tracker device has been introduced for use during this year’s edition, but will only be used in the 73km challenge.

In an interview, race director, Mmuso Phonchi explained that they introduced the tracker, which could also be downloaded as a Racemap application, with the aim to bring the fans as close to the action as possible by leveraging on the data analysis generated during the race and delivering it to them in innovative ways.

Phonchi said with such technology in place, they decided to stop giving the first 100 registered and paid cyclists race shirts as a way to further improve cyclists and audience or spectator experience and bring the race closer and have a more interactive content on race day.

“Cyclists are therefore encouraged to wear their previous editions’ branded Dimension Data Route 73 MTB shirts as we welcome this technology into our race environment.

However, we will review the issue of race shirts for the 2024 edition, which we know cyclists and supporters wear proudly at various cycling events,” he said.

He further explained that the introduction of new technology into this year’s challenge would bring the much needed growth in the sport, enhance the overall experience as well as create further opportunities for expansion.

Cycle4Life Cycling Club president, Themba Giddie said the Connected Race technology would be more useful to cyclists to appreciate their climbing ability and strength.

Giddie added that coaches and team managers who also found it useful in developing programmes for their teams, were sharing route specific instructions and tactics for further improvements and development.

“This is an exciting inclusion in this race and in future we might not use the normal timing to track and time riders, but only the racemap device,” he said.

Meanwhile, the new technology further allows for accreditation and approval with Union Cycling International (UCI).

That will not only benefit local riders but the country as well as hosting a UCI event, brings along economic, tourism and social benefits.

“Accrediting Route73 MTB challenge is something we have in mind.

However, this is an expensive process that will need all stakeholders on board to realise this,” Giddie said.

He indicated that the Route73 MTB challenge had the best routes and distances that inspired and challenged riders competitively.

On the other hand, registration for Dimension Data Route73 MTB challenge has already started and riders can register online at www.ucbtiming.co.bw or www.timing.lifecycle.co.bw or go personally to Ultimate Cycle Base Botswana or Sebele Mall’s Grip Runner. ENDS