Leemisa Thuseho
THREE Lesotho cyclists are attending a month-long training camp at the International Cycling Union (UCI) World Cycling Centre Africa (WCCA) in Cape Town, South Africa.
The camp, which started on Friday, will run until 13 December and features Khotsofalang Rakaota and two female riders, Pontšo Makatile and Lebohang Selepe.
Cycling Federation of Lesotho (CFL) public relations officer, Liteboho Letlala, told the Sunday Express on Friday that the camp will also give the riders an opportunity to compete in several races in South Africa during their stay.
The federation said the international training opportunity provides an important platform for developing local talent, improving riders’ skills and opening pathways to greater opportunities in cycling.
The WCCA’s mission is to develop and improve the standard of cycling across the African continent while preparing riders for international competition.
The camp is expected to further enhance the athletes’ technical skills, physical conditioning and tactical abilities ahead of upcoming competitions.
Also speaking to the Sunday Express on Friday, Rakaota welcomed the opportunity, saying he was confident the camp would significantly boost their development, particularly as they would be training alongside some of the continent’s top riders.
“This is a very great opportunity for us. It is going to enhance our training.
“The camp attracts many riders from across the continent, and another good thing is that there are several races we are expected to compete in. That guarantees us more competition,” ,” Rakaota said.