Sport

Richard gears up for first Amashova

The KwaDabeka resident cycles to and from his jobs in Westville on a daily basis and his employers saw this and entered him into the annual race.

A LOCAL family gathered to support their gardener, Richard Mpanajana’s dream to take part in the Tsogo Sun Amashova Durban Classic.

The 41-year-old said he had been riding a bicycle since 2004 and enjoys the sense of freedom and physicality it offers. Richard currently splits his time between his two jobs, a night time security guard and a gardener. He resides in Clermont and cycles to and from work, which he said totals up to about 26km each day. “It keeps me fit and healthy,” he said.

Richard Mpanajana with Taryn Pullin.
Richard Mpanajana with Taryn Pullin.

Nola McKay (68), one of the Westville family members who initiated the idea, will compete in her 14th Amashova race this year. Nola said she had seen how strong Richard was at cycling and wanted him to participate in the race. The family then covered the costs for Richard to enter the annual race, will pay to have his bicycle serviced as well as purchase a new kit for me.

“This is my first time taking part in the Amashova race and I will be competing in the 105km full race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Nola said she will cycle with me for the entire route.”

“I am really keen to see what my result will be at the end of the race. I have a few friends who are also taking part in the event and now it is like we are having a friendly competition between us,” said an excited Richard.

Taryn Pullin, one of the family members behind the initiative, said, “He rides so much every day and we just want him to get some exposure for the hard work that he does.”

 

Related Articles

Back to top button