Container project produces cycling champs

Containers and cycling champions are unlikely bedfellows, but thanks to a Safmarine Containers in the Community project in Khayelitsha the ubiquitous box is not only providing recreational space for township children but is also proving to be a fertile breeding ground for new South African cycling champions. Launched two years ago, the Velokhaya BMX programme has already produced a World Number Six rider in female BMXer Anita Zenani while two of its young male BMXers, Bayanda Ganyaza and Xolisa Makubalo, won three gold medals each at the SA BMX Championships earlier this year. According to Glyn Broomberg, CEO of Velokhaya, one of the 2010 objectives for the Velokhaya BMX Oval was to upgrade the containerbased BMX start ramp facility. Velokhaya also wanted to make better use of the container space under the ramp. The top of the container-ramp has been upgraded with the addition of a deck and railing which provides more security for riders and a better starting gate area.