Obone-Aratile Lekhehle
The wheels were spinning, spirits were high, and Sol Plaatje University South Campus Precinct was buzzing with excitement as cycling enthusiasts and a wider community took to the road for its sixth annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cycling Challenge on 07 November 2026.
Hosted in partnership with Cycling South Africa (CSA), the event aimed to bring together elite seasoned cyclists, active cyclists and social riders. It also promoted healthy living, community participation and social responsibility, and raised funds for a meaningful cause.
It was held under the theme, “Pedal with a Purpose and Ride for Impact.”
The initiative seeks to raise funds to support Lesedi la Afrika Fund, which assists students in need by creating a long–term sustainability fund that changes lives and enables brighter futures.
The annual challenge offered participants an opportunity to test their endurance and cycling abilities across three categories of 25 km, 50 km and 100km.
The different distances catered for cyclists with varying levels of experience, as both beginners and seasoned riders were encouraged to participate.
Egon Cambell was the first cyclist to cross the finishing line in the 100km challenge.
The 43-year-old winner gloated that he formed part of the challenge a year ago, in 2025, and is now a back-to-back winner.
Campbell, who has participated in various cycling challenges countrywide for 21 years, described the race as good and refreshing.
“I was here last year so I know the finish,” he said proudly.
“It was flat and didn’t have many hills; it was also windy, and the wind worked to my advantage,” he described the race.
The event was sweetened more by entertainment from Kimberley Boys High School band, who gave them different genres of music.
A drummer and flutist in the band, Lonwabo Xala, described the event as exciting and fun to be a part of.
“We were told a week ago about this exciting event by our band conductor, and we have been practicing since, just to make sure that we are up to standard for this event,” Xala added.
Comments are closed.