05 Nov 2024

The last edition of the four part series of the Paratus Bike Shredders Challenge will be held this coming Saturday at Kgale. 

The race will be in three distance categories of 20km, 10km and 5km and registration is P180 per child at www.timing.lifecycle.co.bw. 

Children aged 18 years and below are eligible for this challenge. 

Fixed on a foundation of building strong minds, bodies and characters of young riders, the Paratus Shredders Challenge started in 2018 with just only 20 kids participating in the race. 

Over the years, the race has seen more kids showing interest in this mountain bike (MTB) cycling race, indicating growth for the cycling sport particularly from the young ones. 

The race has created a space where competitive cyclists are born, personal growth fostered, and also allows kids to participate at the level that suits them. 

Targeting kids as young as five years, and older riders in the age of 18, the race has since produced competitive riders who are now competing at a level where they showcase their talent through technical and tactical skills. 

Young riders such as Simphiwe Potongwane, Myra Mantle, Subho Ghosh, Ted Makgetho, Ryna Kenaope, Thabisa More, Loapi Mmokele, and Rafiwa Mosinyi have developed from the race and currently competing in the junior and youth categories where they are performing well. 

Some of them have elevated to being crowned the Botswana Cycling Association national champions. 

Also, their participation has extended to competing in regional cycling races especially in South Africa. 

“We are grateful for the continued support from Paratus Botswana. 

Their commitment to the development and growth of our sport is invaluable,” said founder and organizer of Paratus Shredders Cycling Challenge, Gobona Mantle. 

Paratus Shredders Challenge is also sponsored by GRIP Runners, PURA Soda, Noble Supplies Furniture Manufacturing, and Lifecycle Bicycle Coaching and Tuition. Ends