Ho, July 1, GNA - The Volta Regional Sports Council in collaboration with Home Raffle Lotto in Ho, on Republic Day organized cycling competition for cyclists in the Volta Region.

The competition dubbed, "Afe Lotto Republic Day cycling competition 2010" was to commemorate the country's 50th Republic Day celebration and to promote the sport in the Region. The 80 kilometer and 60 kilometer competition for male and females respectively attracted 40 cyclists across the Region made up of 12 ladies and 28 men. Mr Joe Ayivor, promoter and chief sponsor of the event, said the initiative was mainly to prepare the region for national cycling competition and to discover talents for the nation. He said the competition would be organised yearly to promote the sport among the youth.

Mr. Gabriel Missodey, Volta Regional Sports Development Officer, described cycling as a good sport, which exercises the body and urged the youth to take to cycling to stay healthy. Mr Shaaban Mohammed, Technical Director, Ghana Cycling Association, said that the response of the public to the event was overwhelming and commended the organisers for the initiative.

He noted that the region has very good terrain for cycling and urged stakeholders to promote the sport and other lesser known ones. Mr Henry Ametepe, Volta Regional Coordinator of National Disaster Management Organization and coordinator of the event, advised the Regional Sports Council to take advantage of assistance from individuals to promote lesser known sports.

Prizes to be won include, racing bikes, mobile phones, rice cookers and some cash.

All participants were given five cedis each as participation fee, breakfast, accommodation and money for transportation.