Going places on two wheels

It seems like there is nothing that keeps a group of gardeners happy like cycling to work every day.

This at least rings true for a group of eight friends from Groutville, Etete and Shayamoya who all cycle to their workplaces in Salt Rock every day.

Sthembiso Dladla from Groutville, described by his fellow peddlers as the father of the group, has been cycling to work for the last four years and says he doesn’t see himself ever going back to a taxi rank.

“Cycling keeps me healthy and happy. I don’t have to stress about money for transport or long queues at the taxi ranks,” said Dladla.

Mthandeni Ngubane said his bicycle has become his best friend.

“Even if there is something bothering me, once I get onto my friend (his bike) all the worries are gone.”

Dladla said his bicycle is his second wife and when there is something wrong with it, there is no joy in his life.

“Sometimes I will find it difficult to eat because my second wife is not well. My first wife gets jealous, saying that she finds herself competing with a bike,” quips Dladla.

On weekends the group will cycle to different areas but they prefer areas with hills to challenge them.

“We wish to take part in cycling competitions but we struggle financially. Keeping our bicycles in a good condition is one of the biggest challenges we are facing,” said Sfiso Ngubane.

They are all using bicycles that was given to them by their employers and are very grateful for the support they get from them.

Dladla took part at the Gears 4 Ears race last September and would like to see his fellow group members joining him one day.

“Cycling needs money and that what we don’t have. We believe in ourselves and if we can get to a race, I am sure we can do well,” said group member Philani Mthethwa.

If you will like to help them you can call Sthembiso Dladla on 073 243 4421.