Tswana cyclist wins Nhlangano Classic

NHLANGANO – Botswana’s Jabu Tabolane was the winner of yesterday’s 94km Swazi Milling Nhlangano Classic.

The 32 -year-old clocked 2:58:15 hours out-pedalling the more than 50 cyclists who took part in the event.

The competition’s defending champion Carlos Malinga was close clocking 3:00:22 hours in what was an enthralling finish.

Tabolane took the lead from the onset and along the way he ensured that no one beat him as he raced towards the finish line but not without much challenge.

In his maiden appearance in any race in the country, Tabolane showed great strength in the steep hills of the MR 11 Nhlangano-Lavumisa road.

He was part of a team of three cyclists who came for the race.

He said the route was good and he was happy with his performance.

Talobane came with a great reputation into the race as he is also the reigning champion of the Botswana mountain and road races.

"It was great for me to compete in the race. I started very well and I never gave the local cyclists a chance as I pushed my way upfront from the start. The weather was also fabulous," he said.

Malinga said he was unlucky to have failed to defend his title. He said the race was easy and the winner took advantage of his poor performance on steep hills.

"I believe I did well and even after the race I was not tired. I was well prepared for it and next year I’m sure I’m going to win," he said.