Young cyclists from Langa converged at Langa Indoor Sports Centre on Saturday 11 March in an event organised by Langa Bicycle Hub.
More than 80 cyclists attended the event.
The hub is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that specialises in teaching community cycling.
Hub manager Bonga Hintsa said they aim to keep the people away from the street, especially children.
He said they intend to change the perception that people have about cycling.
“Many people see a bicycle as a toy for children. They don’t know that cycling is a sport. There are people who are respected globally because of cycling,” said Hintsa, adding that bicycles are also a mode of transport.
He described the bicycle as a smart mode of transport as it did not pollute the air. It also does not need too much space.
“Our members start from nine years old upwards. We are practising during the week on Tuesday and Thursday. For adults, we practise from 12:00 till 14:00. Then the children start at 16:00 till 17:30.We are doing both physical training and cycling. We also have classes where we educate them about the safety on the road,” said Hintsa, adding that on weekends they normally have special events.
He said the hub was established last November and the number of people who are joining is growing every day.
“It is difficult to know the exact figures of our members because they are joining every day. We have more than 60 children and more than 20 adults. But the children are coming in large numbers because they are enjoying it. There is no joining or registration fee,” he said.
He highlighted injuries and tyre bursts are some of their challenges.
A young cyclist, Akho Ngoma (14), said he joined the hub early this year.
“I heard about it through a friend of mine. I enjoy cycling because it’s something that I grew up doing. It also keeps me busy and safe,” said Ngoma.
