Cyclists Bulelani Jodo, Pharrel Matroos and Pharrel Matroos. Not in the picture are Elliot Nombayeka and Chad Hefe Sapepa.
Two cycling clubs in Gugulethu have joined forces in a bid to make cycling a popular sport in the area.
The NY Qiqa Cycling Academy and Gugulethu 7 Cycling Organisation announced on Monday that they are forming a partnership.
Gugulethu 7 Cycling Organisation’s Pharrel Matroos said the move would propel the cycling initiative in Gugulethu into greater heights.
“We recognised that we share the same passion, goals and dedication to empowering the youth in our community and merging our efforts and resources to create a stronger, more impactful organisation is indeed the right thing to do,” said Mr Matroos.
He said Gugulethu was a close-knit community and those involved in cycling knew each other.
“We aim to build a united front to address the challenges our youth face, particularly the lack of activities and opportunities available to them after school and during holidays. Our mission is to provide an alternative to the negative influences of drugs, alcohol and gangsterism by introducing young people to the sport of cycling,” said Bulelani Jodo from NY Qiqa Cycling Academy.
With the upcoming Cape Town Cycle Tour, Jodo said they want to inspire more youth to fall in love with the sport.
Mr Matroos and Mr Jodo hope that their partnership will garner sponsorship and resource.
“Cycling is very expensive and we need to share our resources and bicycles to create a more inclusive space for young people to engage in cycling and develop skills that foster discipline, teamwork, and self-confidence,” said Mr Jodo.
Mr Matroos said financial constraints remain a challenge.
“By working together, we believe we can achieve more, inspire the youth, and pave the way for a brighter future in Gugulethu,” he added.