Story by Mthokozisi Dube
SPINNING enthusiasts ushered in the New Year in spectacular fashion following high-octane displays by local and regional competitors during a crossover spinning contest held at the ZKS Spinners Arena during a crossover.
The event attracted a large crowd, highlighting the growing popularity of spinning and its potential to contribute to sports tourism and youth talent development in the country.
Event organiser Mr Zakhele Mlilo said the strong turnout demonstrated that the sport was firmly on a revival path. He said hosting the event was a fitting way to close the year, blending entertainment with competitive sport.
“There could not have been a better way to end the year than hosting a major spinning bash. We have seen a huge uptake in the sport, so we decided to blend entertainment with competition. We brought together local and regional spinners, and we hope to build on this momentum in the coming year,” he said.
He appealed for corporate partners to support the discipline, noting that spinning has become a powerful marketing platform in other countries where it enjoys significant sponsorship.
Fans expressed excitement at the energy and skill on display, with many describing the event as a memorable way to welcome the New Year.
“It is my first time attending such an event and I have really enjoyed myself. I decided to welcome the New Year here and I am loving it. The spinners really know their craft,” one excited fan said.
Another fan described the atmosphere as electric and urged fellow supporters to celebrate responsibly as the New Year began.
“There is still more to come at the next show. We came here well prepared,” a local spinner said.
Regional competitors also praised the level of support, with a spinner from Botswana’s Team Villa saying they were impressed by the reception.
“We came to support our brother Zakhele, but we were amazed by the crowd. We did not expect the sport to have such a strong following here,” he said.
The establishment of the ZKS spinning arena has enhanced Bulawayo’s profile as a sports tourism destination while providing a platform for the growth and development of spinning talent in the region.
