09 Nov 2023

A nail-biting off road race is set to take place on the outskirts of Mmopane village tomorrow in remembrance of the local motorsport fallen legends.  According to one of the race organizers, Jackie Meyer, of Gaborone Motor Club (GMC), the race dubbed ‘The Mmopane 200 Off Road Race’ is the first of its kind in loving memory of some of the finest riders who took part in the sport.

 She said the race was also meant to welcome back former racing champions who either retired from the sport or quit racing owing to several reasons.

Meyer said the Mmopane race is a nostalgic affair that would take riders back to their roots, as the route was established by the GMC in the 80s.  She said it was in a way taking all those who were pioneers of the sport to where they belonged and first met.

 Some of the riders who passed on include quad biker Motsumi Lekone, Kagiso Monametsi, Shane van Niekerk and Julio Ferreira.

The late Lekone, fondly known as Tsuu in local riding circles, would be best remembered for his exploits in the closely contested Toyota Desert Race and the annual Khawa Dune Challenge. Meyer said some of the returning legends include among others quad biker Binn Matengu and veteran two-wheeler Lepsy Mosope. 

In the elite category, a close contest is expected between the likes of Kosmas Mamalokous, Boineelo Rantao and Seth Meyer. Rantao is the current champion in the OR 2 class.  In the junior category, it would be an exciting battle between the likes of Jordan Maloba and close rival Zibo Moabi.

The challenging route is within the fenced track in Mmopane behind the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport with a 30km loop within.  ENDS