IN a boost to the Zimbabwe’s cycling fraternity, Nedbank has reaffirmed its commitment to the fitness, wellness, and cycling event, Tour de Great Dyke, by renewing its title sponsorship ahead of next month’s edition.
The grueling 328km cycling extravaganza, which kicks off at Platinum Miner’s Selous site and concludes in Zvishavane over three days, with rest breaks at various Mimosa Mine sites, is set to take place from November 7 to 9. This year’s event has already generated significant interest, with over 300 cyclists expressing their desire to participate.
The challenging route takes cyclists through the Zimplats’ lap from Selous to Kwekwe, where they rest for the night, before riding into Unki from Kwekwe to Unki Mine for the second lap, and finally concluding the race with the Mimosa lap into Zvishavane.
YAFM’s head of commercial, Chenai Mpofu, confirmed the partnership.
“We are thrilled to announce that YAFM and Nedbank have signed a partnership agreement for the 7th Edition of the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke. We would like to thank Nedbank for continuing to trust us to deliver this premier event on Zimbabwe’s cycling calendar, ” Mpofu said.
Last year’s event attracted a diverse range of participants, from 16 to 82 years old, highlighting the inclusive nature of the tour. The event also supports the charitable initiatives of the Gifted Children Foundation, which provides tuition fees for brilliant but underprivileged children in the Great Dyke and beyond. To date, the foundation has supported over 100 children, with some progressing to tertiary education institutions.
“To our partners, new and old, we have organized robust activations along all key towns and cities from Chegutu to Zvishavane. We urge you to seize this opportunity to partner with us and push your brands to the market,” Mpofu added.
Launched in 2016, the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke aims to promote miner wellness, environmental awareness, and investment opportunities in the Great Dyke geological complex, which is home to major mining houses such as Mimosa, Unki, and Zimplats, all of which support the tour.