Nhau News Online News that is accurate, reliable, trustworthy!!
By Judith Matanire
The country’s largest private medical aid society, health and wellness service provider, Cimas Health Group is championing heart health and active living as it prepares to host the third edition of Pedal to W3llness on September 27.
Organised through the Group’s iGo wellness division, the cycling event will run under the theme “Promoting Heart Health & Active Lifestyles”, aligning with World Heart Day commemorations set for September 29.
Addressing journalists at a press conference at the Group’s Borrowdale Office Park offices yesterday, Cimas Chief Executive Officer Vuli Ndlovu said the initiative reflects the organisation’s mission to inspire healthier communities.
“We host Pedal to W3llness as part of our commitment to promoting a culture of wellness. Through this event, we encourage people to engage in physical activity while highlighting the importance of cardiovascular fitness in overall health,” he said.
This year’s edition features three race categories 45km and 22.5km for adults, and 4.5km for children. Participants will be electronically timed and awarded medals at the finish line.
Online registration is already open, with fees set at US$10 for those using their own bikes or US$25 inclusive of bike hire, while children under 13 will participate for free.
To ensure safety, 50 marshals will be deployed to work alongside the Zimbabwe Republic Police, while helmets will be compulsory for all cyclists.
Ndlovu said Cimas is targeting 500 participants this year, up from last year’s 300, adding that the event is not only about cycling but also raising awareness about cardiovascular health. According to the World Health Organisation, cardiovascular diseases claim an estimated 17.9 million lives globally each year.
“Pedal to W3llness is about building lifelong healthy habits. Cycling strengthens the heart, improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of heart disease. We invite families, corporates and individuals of all ages to be part of this exciting journey towards healthier living,” Ndlovu said.
Beyond health benefits, he noted that cycling is also an environmentally friendly mode of transport and urged Harare City Council to invest in infrastructure that promotes the safety of cyclists on the roads.
With the event expected to draw professional cyclists, fitness enthusiasts and families, Cimas says this year’s Pedal to W3llness promises to be bigger and better uniting Zimbabweans under the banner of wellness and heart health. Nhau
