In a remarkable testament to human resilience, 82-year-old cyclist Wilson Dube is gearing up to once again tackle the demanding Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, scheduled from November 2nd to 4th, 2023.
Dube, who boasts an impressive 57 years of cycling experience, is no stranger to endurance. His illustrious career began during his 37-year tenure as a miner at Shabanie Mine. Remarkably, he has abstained from smoking and drinking, contributing to his remarkable health and vitality.
Since retiring from Shabanie Mine, Dube has continued to pedal forward, participating in all six previous editions of the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke. His dedication to the sport and his indomitable spirit have made him an inspiration to many.
In the 2022 edition of this premier cycling event, organized by YAFM in partnership with Nedbank, and sponsored by platinum mining giants Unki, Mimosa, and Zimplats, Chloride Zimbabwe made a significant commitment by pledging to install a solar system at Mr. Dube’s Chivi residence.
This year’s tour dates have been rescheduled from October 26th-28th, 2023, to the new dates of November 2nd-4th, 2023. This three-day event will challenge over 300 professional and amateur cyclists who will traverse a demanding route covering over 320 kilometers. The journey will commence in Selous, taking them through Kwekwe for the first lap, Kwekwe to Shurugwi for the second lap, and concluding with the home stretch from Shurugwi to Zvishavane.
Importantly, a portion of the proceeds from the race will be dedicated to supporting the charitable initiatives of the Gifted Children Foundation. This foundation is committed to assisting underprivileged but exceptionally talented learners in the Great Dyke region, spanning from primary to tertiary education levels.
The Tour de Great Dyke, launched in 2016, has been instrumental in promoting miner wellness and raising awareness about the investment opportunities within the extensive 550-kilometer-long and 12-kilometre-wide Great Dyke geological complex.
The 2023 edition proudly features Nedbank as the title sponsor and enjoys the support of esteemed partners such as Cimas, Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, Econet Wireless, Nyaradzo, Simbisa Brands, Exide Batteries, Sterling Hotels, Dandemutande, Pote Holdings, and the Midlands State University.
