Over 100 cyclists flagged off the maiden Ogbomoso Gran Fondo, a long-distance cycling race from Ogbomoso to Iseyin and back.
The cyclists, drawn from different parts of the country, are expected to cover a distance of over 150 kilometres in the historic ride, marking the first-ever cycling race to be held in Ogbomoso.
Tagged “Ogbomoso Gran Fondo,” the event is the opening activity of the second edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, which commenced on Thursday, December 18.
Briefing the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Soun Orumogege III, on Wednesday, the event coordinator, Mr. Bayo Majolagbe, said the initiative was designed to promote cycling as a healthy sport while spreading messages of peace and unity between Ogbomoso and Iseyin.
According to him, the race also aims to position Ogbomoso as a destination for sports tourism and youth development.
Participants in the race range from about 10 years of age and above, comprising both amateurs and professional cyclists, all brimming with enthusiasm.
One of the professional cyclists, Mr. Oluwakayode Sanni, who came from Lagos State, told OgbomosoInsightOnline that he has been a professional cyclist for about six years. He said his longest ride so far remains Lagos to Ibadan and back.
“I have cycled to Epe and other places, but Lagos to Ibadan is still my longest ride,” Sanni said.
A 10-year-old participant, Osborne Joseph, from Edo State, disclosed that he started cycling about ten months ago and travelled all the way from Edo to participate in the event. Also taking part is a 14-year-old girl, who said she took up cycling in September and was excited to compete.
Meanwhile, Pastor Oluwole Agboola, an operative of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), assured that the FRSC is providing full support for the event, adding that officials are piloting the race from both the front and rear to ensure the safety of all participants.
The Ogbomoso Gran Fondo is one of several activities lined up for the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, which celebrates the town’s culture, unity, and growing profile in sports and tourism.
