Times Of Swaziland: MANCOBA CONQUERS ROOF OF AFRICA MANCOBA CONQUERS ROOF OF AFRICA ================================================================================ Melusi Mkhabela on 03/12/2024 15:25:00 MBABANE - Eswatini’s Mancoba Mabuza has made quite an impression at the Roof of Africa, widely recognised as the oldest hard Enduro event in the world. Enduro is a type of motorcycle competition that takes place on challenging off-road terrain. Enduro events can take place on a variety of terrains, including mountain ridges, desert plains and wooded valleys. The race, which took place over three days, starting on November 28, unfolded at the rugged terrain of the Maloti Mountains, in Lesotho. Competing in the Bronze Class for the first time, Mabuza finished within the top 30 out of 300 riders, establishing himself as a notable performer for the country in his debut appearance.Expressing his gratitude, Mabuza credited Nsimbi for providing the necessary sponsorship to participate in this prestigious event. “It wasn’t ridiculously tough, but it was challenging, and I enjoyed it. Reflected “The first day was quite long on the bike; I think it was about six to seven hours,” he reflected. The second day saw a shorter ride of around three hours, as organisers opted to shorten the course for safety. However, Mabuza’s first day posed challenges; a crash during the initial loop resulted in a broken exhaust pipe, which he managed to repair. Further misfortune struck when he snapped the bolt of his gear lever on the second loop, compelling him to race on in first gear. Mabuza acknowledged that while he felt prepared, he was not quite at par with the top competitors. “In the faster sections, they were much quicker than me,” he noted. Looking ahead, Mabuza aims to return to the Roof of Africa, aspiring to compete in the Silver Class. The event, renowned as one of the most demanding off-road endurance races globally, introduced a fresh route for 2024, ensuring a fair challenge for both seasoned and novice riders. Wade Young claimed victory this year, marking his ninth win and equalling the all-time record held by Alfie Cox after three days of intense competition across a 350-kilometre course.