Government should support cycling as a competitive sport

Murang’a, Monday, June 19, 2023

KNA by Purity Mugo

A section of cyclists in the country wants cycling to be recognized as a competitive sport nationally like others and also get funding from the government.

The cyclists who had attended the Madaraka Edition cycling competition that was held in Murang'a noted that despite the unexploited potential of the sport the government has not given it any attention.

The organizer of the competition, Alex Tibwitta, observed that there is a lot of untapped potential in cycling and the sport could possibly benefit hundreds of young people who may even earn money out of cycling.

Tibwitta said that currently there is not a single national cycling event that has been organized or sponsored by the government despite there being thousands of cyclists.

“We urge the government to recognize cycling as one of the sports activities and also set aside some funds to support the sector,” Tibwitta said.

According to Tibwitta, the country has great cycling sites which can help the participants perfect their skills in order to compete in both national and international competitions.

“We can have a cycling competition similar to the popular Tour de France and this would help promote cycling as a sporting activity in the country.” He stated.

Tibwitta urged Kenyans to embrace cycling as a way of exercise and also as a mode of transport that can help in reducing air pollution by using environmentally friendly bicycles.

One of the main facilitators of the event, Zack Gichane of Aberdare Cottages, said that many of the local cyclists tend to look for competition opportunities abroad where the sport is embraced and recognized.

He stated that about 20 cyclists were in the USA and UK for different competitions at the time adding that the government should consider organizing such events which would also attract international competitors and help generate revenue for the country.

“Some of the best cyclists in the country compete internationally and they are able to make good money out of it,” Gichane said.

“There is great potential in cycling and I think it is high time the government considers focusing on it,” he remarked.

The race has attracted 60 cyclists both local and foreign who cycled for 73 kilometers.

The cyclists called for enhanced safety plans for the cyclists on the road among them being the establishment of cycling lanes during the construction of roads.

They decried poor infrastructure as the greatest challenge for cyclists as in most cases they are harassed by motorists who feel they don’t have equal rights on the road.

Courtesy ; K. N. A