Eldoret’s inaugural cycling challenge pushed to December

Kendra Masinga, forth year Moi University student Cyclist, training in UasinGishu County on Friday, November 20, 2020. Copa Cabana sports Africa is setting to unveil the Covid-19 cycling challenge on November 22, 2020. [Christopher Kipsang, Standard]

The inaugural ="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/nairobi/article/2001389511/calls-for-change-after-spike-in-cycling-deaths">cycling competition Organisers yesterday said the cycling challenge has been postponed to December 13 so that they can put in place measures to curb the spread of Covid-19. The race is set to start and end at Eldoret’s Zion Mall.

The edition dubbed Uasin Gishu Covid-19 cycling challenge will be the main event in the area this year after cancellation of athletics competitions in Eldoret including the Eldoret City marathon, Kass marathon and Family Bank half marathon among others.

Cyclists will cover 102 kilometres from Eldoret town in Uasin Gishu County through Kaptagat to Iten View Point in neighboring Elgeyo Marakwet County and back to Eldoret through Chepkoilel Road.

Copa Cabana Sports Africa, the organiser of the cycling challenge said 106 cyclists had registered to compete.

“The postponement will give more cyclists time to register for the challenge,” Copa Cabana CEO Patrick Long’iro said.

He added: “We have seen many athletics champions coming out of Eldoret and we have decided to embark on cycling. There is a huge potential in professional cycling just like in athletics.”

Budding cyclist Kendra Masika will make her debut in cycling during the event in December.

“I will use the cycling challenge to gauge my ability after a number of group rides this year. There are many cycling opportunities but there has been lack of sponsorships,” Masika said.