By: Hee-Dee Walenga
The Nedbank Windhoek Pedal Power (WPP) Series began on Sunday morning with over 150 local riders of all ages across 20 different categories taking on the Dr. Hage Geingob Freeway route. It was the first of six races set to take place in the WPP Series this year.
Among the elite riders were nationally-decorated cyclists such as Drikus Coetzee, Olivia Shililifa, Delsia Janse van Vuuren, and Roger Surén.
The Villager caught up with 11-year-old Mila Celliers and 12-year-old Mienke De Beer, who ride under the Pupkewitz MegaTech banner. Celliers competed in the under-12 category and came in first place, whilst De Beer came in 2nd in the under-14 category.
“I enjoy cycling because I can ride with my family and friends,” said De Beer, who is riding in the under-14 category for the first time. “I enjoy cycling because it gets you fit and I can ride with my family and friends,” echoed Celliers. The under-12 and 14 girls rode a 20km course.
Leisure cyclist, 42-year-old Ananias Shikongo, told The Villager, “the race was a bit tough with shedding off the festive food and drinks.” Shikongo is an example of the growing number of Namibians who have picked up cycling as a hobby to keep fit. “A ride a day keeps the doctor away,” stated Shikongo humorously.
The 116km men’s team category was won by Daniel Abrahams of Mannies Bike Mecca Invitational in 2:45:55, with Theuns van der Westhuizen of Hollard Life coming in second. Young cycling phenom Roger Suren finished in 3rd.
Anri Greef won the 96km elite women’s category in 2:31:07, ahead of olympian Vera Looser.
The next WPP Series is scheduled to take place on 18 January on the Teufelsschlucht route.
