03 Oct 2023

The six edition of Nhabe 200 Botswana Motor Sport (BMS) nationals off-road championship has failed to attract a large number of riders and spectators as compared to last year’s race.

Every year, during Independence holidays, bike and quad riders across the country converged in  Maun to take part in the event and have the opportunity to enjoy the tourism hub.

But this time around, it was not to be as the event did not go as planned.  More than 40 riders from local clubs were expected but it started late as organisers had to wait a bit longer for some of the key stakeholders.

The event, which is aimed at promoting sport tourism and develop and nurtures star riders who could compete in the international arena, was organised by Maun Team Motor Club in conjunction with Team Desert Rats from Orapa and spectators including youngsters regarded it as an adventurous event that added more joy and excitement.

Speaking during awards ceremony, BMS secretary Jackie Ntshebe, who apologised on behalf of the organisers, admitted that the event did not go according to plan due to some circumstances beyond their control.

She noted that some of the invited stakeholders such as medics came a bit late because of other work commitments hence they could not start the event without them as per the rules and regulations as riders safety was paramount.

She also noted that for the event to start, they relied on the availability of law enforcement officers and they also arrived late because they were over-stretched by many activities taking place in the tourism town.

Ntshebe said some riders pulled out of the race while some failed to complete their races.

“We could not do anything because some things were beyond our control and I promise that come next year, we will present a big and better race,” she added.

Meanwhile, the role of BMS is to ensure that motorsport and leisure cycling are run according to the regulations that govern the motorsport throughout the world.

The organisation ensures competitors wear the right protective gear and their machinery is safe to use as well as ensure protection of children’s rights on the sport. ENDS