Limpopo cycling duo’s journey rolls on despite race challenges
Cyclists Welcome Khoza and Lucas Malatji faced setbacks in the SCC race but bounced back strong at the Cape Town Cycle Tour, eyeing more events.
LIMPOPO – For Welcome Khoza and his cycling partner Lucas Malatji, cycling is more than just a sport, it’s a way of life.
The dedicated duo kicked off their 2025 campaign with the Soshanguve Cycling Club (SCC) race, a gruelling 280km ride from Pretoria to Polokwane.
Although this marked their second attempt at the SCC race, their first being last year, they were unfortunately unable to complete the route this time due to multiple punctures.
“From Hammanskraal, where the road conditions were poor, Lucas had two punctures just a few kilometres apart,” Khoza told the Herald.
“I also lost a tube after hitting a pothole. Unfortunately, the road assistance team didn’t carry the type of tubes we were using, and we had to abandon the ride.”
Despite the setback, the pair recently took part in the Cape Town Cycle Tour, this time joined by fellow local cyclists Mpilo Nzimande and Thabo Motsoane.
According to Khoza, the experience was a positive one.
“It was a great race, and the weather was on our side,” he said. “We were all happy to finish within the cut-off time.”
Looking ahead, Khoza and Malatji plan to compete in several upcoming races, including the Jakkalsroep race in Gravelotte, Mooketsi MTB Challenge, the Eiland race, and the Magoebaskloof Trek.
