Leemisa Thuseho

LESOTHO Sky Events founder Chris Schmidt, yesterday handed over 50 bicycles to young riders in Lithabaneng, Maseru.

The bicycles were donated in partnership with MAX Bikes Shop. The donation was funded by United States of America (USA) based Mike’s Bike Foundation.

“These are donations from our friends from USA, Mike’s Bike Foundation who asked me to find new homes for the bikes and we decided to do that by donating them to young riders.” Schmidt said.

“I decided to donate them through MAX Bikes Shop because they are already in the business of bicycles and they will be able to help in repairing them when they have problems.”

Schmidt said he was confident that he had made a good investment towards Lesotho’s cycling development since “children are the future of Lesotho’s cycling”.

He also said there was great interest in cycling in Lesotho but the lack resources like bicycle back up shops has remained a challenge. He however, promised that he would make attempts to change the situation with the next donation.

Schmidt said there are also business opportunities in the cycling sector among them importing and selling bicycles, parts and repairing services.

On the other hand, MAX Bikes Shop owner, Moeketsi Makatile said the bicycles were handed to children through existing cycling clubs to ensure that they will be used appropriately.

“We decided to hand over the bikes through existing clubs as we know it will be easy for us to follow-up to ensure that they are being used for their intended purpose.

“We believe that when the bicycles are being used under the watch of clubs, then they will be safe and will remain intact for longer,” Makatile said.