Mbeya or bust: Arusha cyclists reach Mbeya in 5 days
by Our Correspondent
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Conquering 1,273km to Mbeya was not an easy ride for the core team of
riders of Arusha Cycling Club |
The team of Arusha Club
cyclists completed their epic journey from Arusha to Mbeya in five days as
planned, arriving in Mbeya on Saturday evening November 28.
The total number of
kilometres clocked was 1,273, requiring an average ride of 254km per day. Actual
riding time was 46 hours and 45 minutes total and the average speed overall was
27.7 km per hour.
For the core team of 10
riders and their support staff of driver and mechanic, it was both an
exhilarating and challenging experience. Days begin at 4.00 in the morning, and
on one occasion the day=s
ride did not end until after dark.
Despite some punctures
and mechanical problems, the ride went very smoothly. Highlights include the
ride through Mikumi National Park where a variety of wild animals were
encountered including several groups of elephant grazing on the side of the
highway. The Great Ruaha river gorge was a spectacular segment and the 9km
Kitonga escarpment ascent to the Iringa highlands a monumental climb.
On the last day the team
left Mafinga and cycled in awe through the massive highland planted forests, the
air crisp with the smell of eucalyptus and pine. The descent to the Usangu
plains was swift and then the anticipation of the final destination pulled the
team quickly back up into the highlands to Mbeya - tired and worn but
exhilarated!
Many of the Arusha
cyclists had never seen these parts of Tanzania before, and what better a way to
do so than from a bicycle. All participants felt strongly that this should
become an annual event and sponsors sought so that more aspiring cyclists both
from within and without Tanzania can experience the challenge of the road from
Arusha to Mbeya!
For further information,
questions or interest, please contact the Arusha Cycling Club: Chairman - Juma
Njiku 0741 508432, Executive Secretary. - Thad Peterson 0748 443369 or General
Manager - Erik Rowberg 0741 651156.
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