Stanbic Bank Chief Executive Mr Leina Gabaraane (L) handing over a P200 000 sponsorship cheque to Morupule Coal Mine General Manager Mr David Kgoboko (R) towards the GM’s Annual Charity Cycle Challenge
As cycling enthusiasts count down the days to the now infamous annual cycling competition, the MCM GM’s Annual Charity Cycle Challenge, Stanbic Bank has joined the Morupule Cycling Club in celebrating continued collaboration towards moving forward. The MCM GM’s Annual Charity Cycle Challenge 2015 will take place on the 25th of October 2015.
Speaking at a press engagement this afternoon, Stanbic Bank Chief Executive, Leina Gabaraane, confirmed that the Bank will sponsor the event for the 4th consecutive year, with a sponsorship valued at P200,000.00. This comes as continued effort towards sustainable community support and a drive to encourage the positive benefits of sport. The sponsorship is part of a three year commitment by the Bank.
“We have enjoyed an incredibly strong relationship with Morupule Coal Mine (MCM) and with the community of Palapye and surrounding areas. Not only in terms of strong business presence, but also with regards to community development initiatives, it is important that we come together and ensure progress through collaboration,” said Gabaraane. “The MCM GMs Annual Charity Cycling Challenge has a long and wonderful history and a place in the hearts of cyclists and supporters from across the country. We are humbled to be able to be part of that story and heritage as a leading sponsor.”
Stanbic Bank’s strong reputation in the downstream mining industry through its Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) division has seen considerable efforts in stakeholder development. Coupled with the Bank’s strong CSI work, this has seen the community of Palapye welcome the Bank’s efforts on many occasions. The Bank will also champion a team of staff to participate in the Challenge.
Said the General Manager of Morupule Coal Mine, David Kgoboko, “In 2014, the Challenge attracted 84 cyclists, and raised funds to support Ratsie Setlhako Primary School in Palapye and build a house for a family of orphans in Matlhakola Village. We look forward to being able to do more for our communities through the platform of sport. On behalf of the Morupule Coal Mine and the Cycling Club, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the support that Stanbic Bank continue to give to our Annual Charity Cycle Challenge.”
The race will include options for short (30km), middle (58km) and long (100km) distances starting at the Boiteko Junction along Orapa Road, past Paje and Khama Rhino Sanctuary and back. This year will also see the introduction of a 100km junior race. Interested participants are encouraged to register online at www.ucbtiming.co.bw, at Ultimate Cycle Base and The Bike Shop (both Gaborone), or to request an entry form from timing@ucbtiming.co.bw. Late registration will be open on Saturday 24th October between 16:00 and 18:30 or at 06:00am on race day, Sunday 25th October.
“We look forward to another sensational Challenge, cheering on our Stanbic Bank staff and all cyclists and supporters. This is a legacy event and one we as Batswana all ought to be proud of and support,” Gabaraane concluded.
