At 83, Wilson Dube remains a revered figure in Zimbabwe’s cycling community, demonstrating that passion, perseverance, and purpose know no age limits. Born in 1941 in Mozambique, Dube’s incredible journey began as a teenager when he discovered his love for cycling—a passion that has spanned nearly six decades of competitive racing. This year, however, marks a bittersweet chapter for the legendary athlete, as a recent injury has sidelined him from participating in the 2024 Nedbank Tour De Great Dyke. Nonetheless, his legacy endures, as he assumes a new role as the event’s ambassador, continuing to inspire cyclists and communities across the nation.
The Early Days: From Mozambique to Zimbabwe
Dube spent his formative years in Mozambique, completing his education before relocating to Zimbabwe. It was in Zimbabwe that his cycling talent was recognized by white settlers in Novel, who secured him a job at Shabani Mine. His professional cycling career officially began on June 16, 1966, when he competed in the Chamber of Mines race in Mhangura. From that moment on, Dube never looked back, and over the next 58 years, he cemented his place as one of Zimbabwe’s most consistent athletes.
An Athlete Across Generations
Despite his age, Dube’s commitment to fitness is awe-inspiring. He maintains a daily routine of 20-kilometer runs, weightlifting, and healthy eating, which has kept him in peak physical condition. Over the years, he has built an impressive competitive record, never finishing lower than fourth place in any race he entered.
His achievements include remarkable performances such as eight minutes and 45 seconds in a time trial race in Chisipite, Harare and an 800-meter sprint in just 1 minute and 18 seconds in Shurugwi. Dube also broke the 3-kilometer record, completing it in three minutes and three seconds—a testament to his incredible stamina and dedication.
A Setback on the Road to Greatness
For the first time in his illustrious career, Dube suffered a setback in the last edition of the Nedbank Tour De Great Dyke when he sustained a leg injury after a fall, forcing him to miss the Nedbank Tour De Great Dyke 2024. The annual 300-kilometer cycling event, which runs from November 7 to 9, has always held a special place in Dube’s heart. While the injury has prevented him from competing, Dube’s contribution to the event is far from over. This year, he will serve as the event’s ambassador, a role he embraces with gratitude and pride.
“I am grateful that people recognize and honor my talent,” Dube said. His appointment reflects not only the respect he has earned but also the powerful legacy he has built over the years.
The Nedbank Tour De Great Dyke: Uplifting Communities through Cycling
The Nedbank Tour De Great Dyke is not a cycling race—it’s a platform (Charity cycle) for wellness, community building, and charity. The event, supported by Nedbank Zimbabwe and major mining companies like Zimplats, Unki, and Mimosa, aims to raise funds to support underprivileged children with educational needs. Last year, proceeds from the tour paid school fees for 48 children, and the goal for 2024 is to double that number to 100, potentially extending support to university students.
The event’s visionary, Munyaradzi Hwengwere, emphasized the broader purpose behind the race: “The Nedbank Tour De Great Dyke is a gift to Zimbabwe. It is a statement that we grow together with our communities, focusing on health, wellness, and social responsibility. The money we generate helps us uplift those with less fortune, ensuring we make a tangible difference.”
Cyclists will be flagged off at Zimplats Selous offices, passing through Chegutu, Kadoma, and Kwekwe for the Zimplats lap. The journey will then continue through Gweru and Shurugwi, concluding at Zvishavane with the Mimosa lap.
A Legacy that Defies Age and Injury
Dube’s story is a beacon of inspiration, proving that neither age nor setbacks can extinguish a person’s passion and dedication. While this year marks the first time, he will not race in the Nedbank Tour De Great Dyke, his presence as an ambassador ensures that his influence remains as powerful as ever.
Through his cycling career and his new role, Dube continues to inspire young cyclists to embrace fitness, competition, and community service. Charity Mandaza, Executive Head of Operations at Nedbank, echoed this sentiment:
“This event is about more than just cycling. It’s about empowering individuals and communities to reach their full potential.”
Wilson Dube embodies that spirit of resilience, teamwork, and social responsibility.
A Champion in Every Sense
Even off the bike, Wilson Dube’s legacy endures. His journey from a young boy in Mozambique to a celebrated cyclist and now an ambassador reflects a life lived with purpose. His story will inspire future generations, proving that age is just a number and setbacks are merely part of the journey. As Dube takes on his ambassadorial role at the Nedbank Tour De Great Dyke 2024, he leaves an indelible mark on Zimbabwe’s sporting community — reminding us all that the road to greatness is not only about winning races but also about uplifting others along the way.
