Teenage twins to make Mantshwabisi debut
Nchidzi Masendu | Saturday June 17, 2023 06:00
The race returns to Jwaneng between June 23 and 25 after a three-year absence. The youngsters have been riding bikes since an early age, following in the footsteps of their father, Tafa Tafa.
The father’s exploits caught the attention of his children, who started playing with his two-wheel bike and in the process, discovered their talents. The senior Tafa indicated that his children have been racing for some time and have already represented Botswana in competitions held in countries such as South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
Tadiwa, who joins a male-dominated sport said she used to ride her father’s quad bike at the farm, which nourished her riding experience. “I enjoy the adrenaline rush.
It is a dangerous sport, but you can choose to do it safely,” Tadiwa said. She has already competed in the Khawa Dune Challenge, where she did 500km, which is the longest race she has participated in.
Tadiwa was proud of her exploits since it was a tough race. The excitement is also high for the desert race. She encouraged other girls to venture into sports since it has benefits. Tadiwa is focusing on her mentality as she prepares for the race in Jwaneng. Tabona is also looking forward to racing in Jwaneng and has used a 1,000-day calendar challenge, which he has been completing successfully. Their father told journalists in Gaborone this week that he has used more than P100,000 to prepare the twins for the race.
The figure includes expenses for equipment, the kit, fuel, accommodation and other logistics. He revealed everything has been out of their pockets which can be draining, with the family appealing to anyone willing to assist ahead of the tough race.
“The major opportunity for sponsors is getting the brand out there everywhere they go. Sponsors will grow with them as they will brand the equipment with all the sponsors that will take part,” the twin’s father said. He has been the twin's mentor throughout their motorsport journey.