Leemisa Thuseho

THE Lesotho Off-Road Association (LORA) is mourning the death of caretaker Fako Moretlo, who died on Thursday morning at his home in Masowe, Maseru.

LORA executive member Likhakhane Matete told the Sunday Express that Moretlo died after long battle with a leg blood clot (Deep vein thromboses).

Matete said Moretlo’s death was a huge loss to the sport citing that he had positively impacted on the growth of the sport. He said Moretlo’s commitment has resulted in the increase of local riders.

“This an immeasurable blow to the sport because he was the one who would go out and scout riders,” Matete said.

“He would even use his own resources to take riders to and from different races across Lesotho and even outside the country without expecting anything in return.

“He was elected into the committee as a caretaker but his passion made it look as though he was a riders’ coach.”

While Lesotho has struggled to field riders in the Roof of Africa race for several years, it had 10 last year. Matete attributes the feat to Moretlo’s hard work.

“The increase in the number of riders in the Roof of Africa was because of Moretlo’s hard work. Although the sport is expensive, he would always strive to ensure that even under-privileged riders get an opportunity by funding them from his own pocket.

“He also instilled discipline in the riders.”

Last year, LORA secured a M540 000 sponsorship from the Matekane Group of Companies and Matete said Moretlo was instrumental in negotiating the deal.

“He died at time we needed him the most… it is true that he was not working alone but his commitment was outstanding. I don’t know how we are going to cope without him.

“Moretlo also played a crucial role in helping his son Teboho graduate from bronze to silver category,” Matete said.

Moretlo will be buried in Masowe today.