Cheers as disabled cyclists take on Amashova

THE young Ethembeni cyclists were all smiles after they completed the Amashova Durban Classic cycling event.

Having featured in The Hilltop recently, the boys were recognised by spectators along the route and received lots of cheers and encouragement which just added to the whole exciting experience and motivated them to finish.

The team consisted of seven visually impaired and one physically disabled learner – Sandile Manana, Thobani Mhlongo, Nkonzo Msomi, Langelihle Buthelezi, Sabelo Ngema, Lusanda Ndwandwe, Edris Mhlanga and Nkosikhona Biyela.

The boys who participated in the 35km event finished between 1h30 and 1h57 and in the 65km race Edris (14) finished in 3h 35 and Nkosikhona (16) in 3h25.

Edris said, “I enjoyed the race. The hills were difficult but I was feeling strong and fit and I knew I would be able to manage.” Nkosikhona added,. “It was tough in the beginning but I knew when I got to Hillcrest it would be easy because I rode from there in last year’s race.”

Kristyl Mackley, occupational therapist at Ethembeni and the boys’ cycling coach said, “I was happy that the all the learners had fun and enjoyed the race. We had a good team spirit and it was great riding past the Ethembeni water table and school and hearing them cheer us on. The boys coped well with the longer distance and with the correct training and support I feel they managed the 65km on their own.

“Next year’s goal is to include more severely visually impaired learners on tandems and more physically disabled learners in the short race.”