Afroil cyclists Boniface Ngwata and Jolene Juma emerged victorious in the men’s and women’s categories respectively at the Pedal Pursuit Training Race held at Coco Beach on Sunday.
Ngwata, who claimed the men’s title, said the race provided strong competition but called on organisers to address logistical challenges that affected the event.
The cyclists were expected to cover 120 kilometres, but the race ended after about 118km, while a convoy along the route contributed to delays, he said.
Speaking after the race on September 27, Ngwata said such disruptions could affect cyclists’ performance, particularly when they have prepared for a specific race distance and starting time.
“Perhaps the convoy was one of the challenges. We were told the race would cover 120 kilometres, but we rode about 118 kilometres, if I am not mistaken. That can affect a rider’s performance,” Ngwata said.
He urged organisers to improve coordination and communicate starting times clearly, particularly where race routes pass through areas likely to be affected by convoys or other activities.
Ngwata, however, praised the involvement of officials from outside the country, saying their participation helped strengthen race management and competition standards.
In the women’s category, Jolene said winning the race was encouraging and reflected the growing competitiveness of cycling in Tanzania.
She said the victory and prize money would motivate her to maintain her training as she seeks to improve her performance in future races.
“First, the race time needs to be clearly communicated. On the women’s side, we started at a time that we did not fully understand, while the men started earlier,” Jolene said.
She also called for stronger safety measures, particularly ensuring that roads remain clear for cyclists during competitions.
Cycling stakeholder Salim Matambuu said the race had generated growing interest among members of the public, thanking leaders, young people and sponsors for supporting the event.
He called for greater cooperation among stakeholders to expand cycling opportunities for young people and create a stronger competitive environment.
Matambuu also commended Government efforts to improve road safety and infrastructure, saying cyclists had been receiving adequate security during their activities.
Pedal Pursuit chairman Edward Hilal Chuwa urged cyclists, sponsors and other stakeholders to work together to expand the number of cycling events in the country.
He said sustained investment, financial support, new ideas and more competitions were necessary to help Tanzanian cyclists gain experience and compete at higher levels.
“We need to continue working together and organise more events like these. We also need to look at our cyclists differently. Our goal should be to see the sport transform their lives by giving them experience and opportunities,” Chuwa said.
Chuwa also commended the Tanzania Cycling Federation for introducing training courses for stakeholders, including race officials and bicycle mechanics.
He said the shortage of skilled bicycle mechanics remained a challenge and urged cyclists to take advantage of available training opportunities to acquire mechanical skills that could support both their careers and the wider development of cycling.