More than 100 local and international cyclists are expected to compete in this year's Springhill International Cycling Challenge, scheduled for November 28 at the Government City in Mtumba, Dodoma Region.
The competition, organised under the theme Pedal for the Future, aims to promote cycling while raising more than Sh100 million to support needy pupils in government primary schools.
Cycling Association of Dodoma (CHABADO) chairperson and Cycling Association of Tanzania (CHABATA) executive member Athuman Mzava said the event would feature three race categories designed to accommodate professional, amateur and recreational cyclists.
Participants will compete in a 15-kilometre fun ride, a 34-kilometre race for non-professional and emerging cyclists, and a 102-kilometre professional race.
“This year's edition of the Springhill Cycling Challenge will be held in Mtumba, Dodoma, on November 28. We expect more than 100 local and international riders competing in various categories, and we anticipate a very tough competition,” he said.
Mr Mzava said this year's event marked the first national and international edition of the competition, following last year's regional-level event, which was also held in Dodoma.
He credited Springhill Pre and Primary School for sponsoring the competition, saying its support was helping revive and promote cycling in Tanzania.
“People in Dodoma Region love cycling, and the introduction of the Springhill Cycling Challenge has raised enthusiasm among both professional and non-professional riders. They are all ready for the challenge,” he said.
The organisers have announced cash prizes for the top five finishers in the two competitive categories.
In the 102-kilometre professional race, the winner will receive Sh1.5 million, while the second-placed cyclist will take home Sh1 million. The third, fourth and fifth finishers will receive Sh500,000, Sh250,000 and Sh200,000, respectively.
In the 34-kilometre category, the winner will receive Sh500,000, followed by Sh300,000 for second place, Sh200,000 for third, Sh100,000 for fourth and Sh50,000 for fifth.
Registration fees have been set at Sh35,000 for participants using their own bicycles and Sh45,000 for those using bicycles provided by the organisers.
Mr Mzava said interested participants should submit their full names, mobile phone numbers, payment details and preferred race category to +255 750 482 270.
Payments can be made through Lipa number 31022780, Azania Bank, under the account name Spring Venture Sacra.
The organisers say the event will provide an opportunity to promote competitive cycling and recreational participation while linking sporting activities with support for disadvantaged pupils.