Elated cyclists descended on the streets of Soweto for the 20km Soweto Social Ride on Sunday, 27 March 2022.
The event, hosted by the Transport Department and Regatammogo, afforded cyclists the opportunity enjoy traffic-free roads from Thokoza Park, passing the iconic Hector Peterson Museum including the Soweto Towers and Kliptown Square.
The aim of the social ride was to connect Soweto communities, promoting bicycles as a form of transport, promoting the use of cycle lanes and to create safer, bicycle friendly city.
Ward 33 Councillor Nompumelelo Mazibuko said she was happy to see that the City is growing its efforts to promote cycling in Soweto and encouraging young people to take up cycling as a sport.
“I believe this event is beneficial for the community because it empowers people and should be hosted twice a year to encourage community members to be more involved. I think that as Sowetans it’s high time that we join cycling clubs and it will be great to have sponsors partnering with local cycling clubs and donating bicycles, helmets, shoes,” said Cllr Mazibuko.
A jubilant Lindani Shabangu from Boni for Kasi, who coaches novice cyclists in Zola, was excited and hoped that more events of this nature would be hosted by the City in other townships to promote cycling. “I am happy to see that this event is happening, and it is empowering and encouraging the youth to join cycling clubs.”
Mbali Gamede, who is 19 years old, came to the event to show young girls that they too can ride bicycles and take up cycling as a sport.
“I started cycling in 2018 I love cycling although it has been tough but I keep on pushing myself that I can do this. I cycle because this frees my mind when I have too much thoughts. I would love to see more young girls joining cycling because it’s a fun sport,” said Gamede.
Mongezi Somwahla, who is a young and passionate cyclist, was happy to ride through the streets of Soweto without dodging traffic.
“Cycling is beneficial to everyone’s health in terms of mental, physical and also emotional health. It keeps me off drugs and being involved in crime. I am happy to see that this event is happening to show that cycling can be seen as a sport and mode of transport,” said Somwahla.
Written by Siphokazi George and Muziwenhlanhla Coka
28/03/2022