MBABANE – Preparations are gathering pace for the annual MTN Khemani Cycling Club scheduled for next Saturday in Mankayane.
Latest developments suggest that Lesotho cyclists have confirmed participation in this year’s edition. They were expected to feature in the previous, but could not make it. At the time of compiling this report, exact details of the overall number coming to race next weekend could not be ascertained. The official MTN Khemani Cycling Club Facebook page confirmed this latest development.
It was earlier revealed that the event is expected to attract cyclists from Eswatini and beyond, with local and international teams showing strong interest in what promises to be another competitive edition of the road race.
Cyclists will have three categories to choose from. These are the 30km, 60km and 100km races, catering for cyclists across different levels of experience.
Club Secretary General (SG) Nomfundo Jiyane revealed they are anticipating about 250 spectators, adding to the atmosphere as riders, supporters and communities converge on Mankayane for the event.
Notably, general registration is scheduled to close today. No late registrations will be accepted, with cyclists urged to secure their places before the deadline.
The race, organised by MTN Khemani Cycling Club, is being staged under the title sponsorship of MTN Eswatini, which committed a E350 000 sponsorship package when the 2026 edition was officially launched in August.
The launch was held at the MTN Eswatini headquarters, with Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima officiating.
Also present was Minister for Housing and Urban Development Appolo Maphalala, who was represented by Principal Secretary Dr Simon Zwane.
MTN Eswatini Chief Executive Officer Jerry Soko, representatives from the Ezulwini and Mankayane town boards, cycling clubs and other dignitaries also attended the launch.
The event has steadily grown into a regional cycling attraction, with previous editions drawing competitors from across Southern Africa.
At the 11th edition, more than 100 cyclists from South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Mozambique lined up in Mankayane for a demanding course featuring steep climbs, technical descents and challenging wind conditions.
The South African outfit Fly Coom Collective dominated the elite men’s 100km race, sweeping the podium.
Wijan Nieuwoudt claimed victory in 2:29:38 to pocket E5 800, finishing ahead of teammate Keanan Roodt, who also recorded 2:29:38 and earned E4 300. Kent Main completed the podium in 2:29:39, taking home E3 300. Eswatini’s Kwanele Jele was the first local rider home, finishing seventh overall in 2:36:53 and earning E2 200.
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