The first edition of Tour de Machakos, a replica of the international Tour de France, has attracted over 50 elite cyclists.
DR Alfred Mutua during the launch of Tour de Machakos cycling competition. the event, which will be held over the weekend targets to boost toursism in the County.
Organisers have announced hefty prizes to lure the elite cyclists to the event, which will be held this weekend.
Addressing the media during the launch of the Tour de Machakos at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua said that the race will be like any other international event that will attract tourists and good money for the competitors.
The two-day race has eight categories – the elite, juniors, family fun, veterans, corporate, media, women and Black Mamba.
There will be 15km armature race from Makutano to Kabaa and 10km family fun from Makutano to Kavindini.
“We are very proud this time to launch the first Tour de Machakos cycling competition that is open to all people of all walks in this country.
“This is meant to be a sports tourism event whereby we want to attract many tourists in the county during the Mashujaa Day weekend.” said Dr Mutua.
The governor added that the event will be used to market Machakos County as a tourist attraction point, adding that sports is a key event, which has been used to brings people together.
The overall winner will take home Sh250,000, the runner-up Sh100,000 while third place cyclist will get Sh50,000.
Position 11 to 15 will get Sh1,000 each. The first day race will start from Machakos Peoples’ Park through Kaseve, Kithangaini to Makutano and back, which is approximately 50km.
The second day race will start from Masii through Mwala, Kavindini, Bishop Ndingi, Mumbuni wa Mundu, Nditha River, Kabaa to Kithimani and back, about 100km.
This will be a great family weekend outing with accommodation available in tented camps, music extravaganza, cultural food festival with the final show dubbed ‘Masaku has talent Bundu ball’ happening at Kabaa Centre.
Cyclists will be using the event as part of their preparations ahead of the All Africa games next year in Congo.
By REBECCA GICHANA, The Standard