Stanbic Bank Botswana has pledged commitment towards further developing the local sporting fraternity with the added benefit of moving communities forward. This comes in the form of a 3-year sponsorship commitment towards the Gem Diamonds Kalahari Challenge, set to take place from 10th-12th June 2016. The now annual mountain bike stage race already has a strong reputation for working to raise funds to develop communities on the cycle route.
The bank will serve as the Presenting Sponsor for the period commencing in 2016, with a sponsorship value of P500, 000. This is 2nd year the Bank has participated in the annual race, with a reputation for participation in this, one of many cycling initiatives the Bank is passionate about.
“We are thrilled to once again sponsor and participate in the prestigious Gem Diamonds Kalahari Challenge, further building upon an already strong relationship with the race organisers. This is a truly rewarding platform in that it encourages greater appreciation for and development of sporting codes such as cycling, which have the power to champion greater wellness as well as bring communities together,” said Stanbic Bank Botswana Chief Executive, Leina Gabaraane.
Stanbic Bank is also proud to be associated with the Kalahari Challenge which was nominated as a finalist for the “African Sponsorship of Year” by the Discovery Sport Industry Award 2016. The Kalahari Challenge was nominated as one of the sixth finalist out of the twenty one events selected throughout Africa.
The annual race, introduced in 2005, is one of the most sought after full-service mountain biking stage races in Southern Africa. Recent years saw the introduction of the “Community Support Programme” in an effort to see funds raised by the cycle challenge channelled towards developing communities along the cycle route. In 2015, Stanbic Bank, through its sponsorship of the challenge, donated a P100, 000.00 porta cabin and furniture to the Lekgolobotlo village clinic, facilitating enhanced healthcare delivery for residents of the community.
Seamus O’Neill, Race Director added that they are excited to have a number of key supporters and sponsors on board. “They share our vision of making this not only an enjoyable experience for the participants, but to drive real and tangible differences to local communities.”
The 2015 edition of the cycle challenge attracted 250 cyclists, with in excess of 400 anticipated this year. The race offers both full and light distance options for local and international participants. The Challenge route of 237km includes 2,400m of climbing over the three days, while the Conquest route spanning 185km sees a climb of 1,300m. Participants may enter as follows: Juniors (Under 19); Open (19–29 years); Sub-Vets (30–39 years), Veterans (40–49 years); or Masters (50+ years). Cyclists may enter in the Mixed, Women, or Single categories.
