LOCAL cycling hero Wilson Dube (83) shed tears of joy after his recognition during yesterday’s Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke flagging-off reception at Zimplats’ Metallurgical Complex in Selous.
Dube, who has been cycling for over 55 years, had a freak accident last year which ruled him out of this year’s programme.
However, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise as the organisers of the event appointed him race ambassador.
On top of that, Dube also got a full solar kit from Chloride Zimbabwe for use at his home in Zvishavane.
He was so overwhelmed to the point of shedding tears that he had to be consoled by Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Marian Chombo.
“I didn’t expect such kind of gesture I thought when the whites left, that was the end of cycling in our community. I am at a loss of words. I just want to sincerely thank everyone who has seen it fit to reward me for the years that I have dedicated myself to cycling,” a sobbing Dube said.
“I started cycling on June 17, 1966. I’m still fit, but I decided to exit the dance floor and help the youngsters. They said Munyaradzi (Hwengwere, Minex chairperson and the brains behind the event) had come, and I said, who is this comforter going to comfort? But today, we can see that he was sent to comfort people like me and everyone gathered here.
“May God richly bless all the partners who continue to contribute towards the upliftment of cyclists and the disadvantaged, but gifted kids who are getting their fees paid through the Gifted Foundation.”
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Chombo was tasked to hand over the 2kVA solar system to Dube on behalf of Chloride Zimbabwe.
“When I arrived this morning, the first person I asked if he was around was Sekuru Dube because if you were going to cycle, I wanted to cycle with you up to Zvishavane,” Chombo said jocularly.
“You are such an inspiration, secure, to the family of Zimbabwe and everyone. Now we are handing over a 12-year-old boy, and we look forward to seeing him cycle all the way to 84 years like you.
“You are now in retirement, but we want you to enjoy your retirement. Thank you for the 50+ years you have invested in the sport.”
The cyclists pedalled through the Zimplats’ lap from Selous to Kwekwe.
This morning, they will go through the Unki lap cycling into Gweru before putting up at Unki Mine.
Tomorrow, they wrap up the 328km journey from Shurugwi to Zvishavane for the last lap, dubbed the Mimosa lap.
“Events like this attract tourists, generate income for local businesses and create job opportunities. The influx of visitors will benefit our hospitality sector, from hotels to restaurants to local artisans and vendors. By showcasing the best of what Mashonaland West has to offer, we are not only promoting tourism but also stimulating our economy,” Chombo said.
“I am particularly pleased to see the involvement of local communities in this event. The engagement of our youth, women, and various community groups demonstrates our collective effort to harness the potential of sport as a tool for development.
“I encourage all participants to interact with the communities along the route, to learn about their cultures, and to forge connections that transcend provincial borders.”
The Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke was launched in 2016 by YA FM and it is a charitable event that supports the paying of school fees for over 100 disadvantaged but academically gifted kids in the Great Dyke region.
