By: Kassim Kajosolo
Cyclists have hailed the 2024 Farmers World Limited cycling race also known as Tchove Tchove race saying this is a way to go in promoting the sport in the country.
The Blantyre cycling club member, Steven Nazombe manyenje who was also the champion on the race said he was happy to be the champion for men’s singles at 3 hours 2 minutes.
“I am grateful to Farmers World, Agora and all sponsors that made this race possible, it was not easy as we met heavy winds along the race but I have managed to top the group.” Said Manyenje.
He also appealed to youth to join cycling sport saying it is one of the beautiful sport that helps people to be fit and live a health life.
Maria Moffat, a Lilongwe cycling club member was first in the ladies category, and asked the organisers to continue supporting the sport with races like these to empower they cycling athletes.
“I had a good race although it was not easy. I would like to ask women and girls to come forward to cycle with others for as it will help them a lot.” Said Moffat.
Malawi Olympic Committee General Secretary, Henry Sakala asked the organisers to make this an annual event saying it will help the athletes and the country as a whole.
He said “This is very commendable, as MOC we are happy with this race as it has helped our cyclist to participate in the competition.”
He has however asked the organisers to match the race with the international standards.
“I think the organisers did not know how big this race was, I would like to ask them to pin the race to international standards like time and distance it will help a lot in promoting the sport in the country.” Said sakala.
The race was organised by farmers World with sponsorship from Agora, farmers service unit, Coca-Cola Malawi, farmers organisation limited and FDH bank.
Manyenje and Moffat went away with Gold medals, K150,000, 2 bags of fertilizer, Maize seed and agricultural chemicals each. Moffat also got a microwave while Manyenje got a 45 inch smart TV.