The Sunday News
Mehluli Sibanda, Senior Sports Reporter
THE annual Tour de Falcon, a cycling race from Bulawayo to Falcon College in Esigodini is on today after being postponed in July.
Falcon College were forced to postpone the hugely popular race in July due to renovations that were being carried out on the road from Esigodini to the private school which was deemed dangerous for the riders at the time. With the refurbishment complete, the race will now go ahead.
A number of activities have been lined up for the day, with the main attraction being the 56km cycle ride from Bulawayo where the starting point is Fazak in Woodlands to Falcon College. Several other several categories with on road, off road, four-rider relays, kids fun triathlon with proceeds going to KidzCan, the only organisation in Zimbabwe dedicated to increasing the survival rate of children with cancer.
This year marks the 15th year that Tour de Falcon is taking place. Reginald Querl, the Falcon College headmaster, an active participant in the Tour de Falcon feels that it is a tough race but at the same time it is doable.
“It’s something everyone must do, it’s fun, tough, and ultimately achievable, for young and old, and brings great satisfaction and a sense of achievement,’’ Querl said.
Tour de Falcon is not all about cycling with CrossFit Bulawayo to exhibit and hold competitions for interested parties, there will be a physiotherapist available to do sports massage, jumping castle for the children and there are a number of prizes for select categories. There are also 5km, 10km and 21km runs.
A family fun day, Tour de Falcon is usually held around the same time as the commencement of the much celebrated Tour de France whose 2018 edition ran from 7 to 29 July. Nevertheless, even if it’s being held in September, Tour de Falcon promises to be a fun filled family day with lots of excitement for those taking part in the various activities on the day.
