Cycling dream to become a reality

GRAAFF-REINET SPORT NEWS - The end of the nationwide lockdown promises to open a new world of competitive cycling for Graaff-Reinet and surrounding emerging cyclists.

Even experienced local cyclists can benefit from an SA Bicycle Association venture to address the need for promoting local cycling.

Corné Bence, Cycling SA's convener of the national coaches and head of recreation and development, was contacted by the Advertiser to help take upcoming local cyclists to a higher level. This includes the provision of training and to assist in obtaining training equipment, such as bicycles.

This follows a discussion with Maxwell Jaftha, convener of the Hood Riders cycling club, who told the Advertiser that he hopes this hobby will touch the lives of young people in his community. "We hope to get people working on this project, as it grows, to build and sell bikes." Hood Riders consists of approximately 20 young people who, together with Jaftha, build their own unique bicycles and enjoy cycling as a way of getting together and exploring the town.

Approximately three weeks ago, Jaftha told the Advertiser that he thinks his dream is growing bigger than he thought, with some of the youngsters showing potential to excel in competitive cycling.

After a conversation about identifying upcoming talent beyond the Hood Riders and going to schools to seek for talent, the Advertiser spoke to the chairperson of the Beyers Naudé Municipal Sports Council, Hento Davids. Together, it was decided to start at the top and contact SA Cycling directly.

The Advertiser made contact with Bence, who on Tuesday 18 May said all role players must get together and provide him with detailed information.

"I will then appoint someone within SA Cycling to attend to the Graaff-Reinet and surrounding cyclists wherever we can assist, to make the young cyclists' dreams of excelling in this sport a dream come true," he said.

Maxwell Jaftha. Photo: Paula-Ann Smit