In the bustling streets of Unit L in the dormitory town of Chitungwiza, legendary hand cyclist has quit the sport which has given him fame with absolutely no fortune.
However, Wilson Claki Nyakoko (49), who dominated local and international tracks, has dedicated his life to mentoring aspiring hand cyclists, imparting his expertise and experience to ensure the sport continues to thrive.
But due to the realities of life in the country’s economic landscape, he must be able to provide for his family through other means other than the sport he loves.
Every mid-morning, he sets aside his mentoring duties to venture into the vibrant streets of Harare, where he joins the ranks of vendors eking out a living amidst the city’s bustling informal markets.
It’s the inspiring story of a man who, despite facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, continues to defy expectations and pave his own path to success.
This is the inspiring story of Nyakoko who recently quit the sport for medical reasons after going through an operation as well as old age after being involved in the sport for nine years.
“I started hand cycling at the age of 41 in 2016. I am a self-inspired person. I just liked it as it is easy to learn and it’s an outgoing activity. I really wanted to continue with the sport, unfortunately, I was operated twice which then forced me to go into retirement. This does not mean I have completely abandoned hand cycling, but this has also created an opportunity for me to mentor some youngsters,” Nyakoko told The Sport Hub in an exclusive interview.
The former champion who has seen it all in hand cycling feels he has a lot to plough back to the community as he dedicates most of his time particularly early in the morning to train a team of youngsters.
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“I always tell young athletes that disability does not mean inability. In sports we don't give up, especially in racing and hand cycling, a person must be courageous enough to finish what you started. Don't give up, achieve your goals as you know our sport doesn't pay like able bodied sports, it’s about passion and there is hope that we may recruit more hand cyclists,” the 49-year-old said.
Nyakoko might have retired, but he still has some fond memories of the sport especially when he travelled to South Africa and brought home medals.
“My memorable experiences as a competitive hand cyclist was when I won a gold medal in the 2017 competitions in George, South Africa.
“I have also represented Zimbabwe in international road races in Portugal and United States. I won three gold medals using a hand cycle. It was an honour to wear the national badge raising the flag of the country high,” he said.
Although Nyakoko has had some success in the sport, he believes that hand cycling is in danger of dying if the government and corporate world do not swoop in to rescue the sport.
“The sport of hand cycling is faced with challenges as there is lack of latest equipment and proper training facilities for the athletes. At the moment there are only four hand cycles in which is not enough for the organisation.
“A new hand cycle costs US$5 000 plus and we are unable to purchase even the used one which is in good condition. To make matters worse the roads are so bad that some of the hand cycles cannot be used.
“The sport needs a lot of money to buy spares and travel expenses. We do not have hand cycles to cover all provinces in the country. We have many athletes who want to take the sport to another level and this is being affected by the shortage of equipment,” the former paralympian said.
Away from hand cycling sport, Nyakoko has turned himself into a vendor selling clothes in the central business district of Harare in order to eke out a living.
“I decided to go into vending selling clothes along Julius Nyerere Way in Harare as I saw it as the only way I can make ends meet for the upkeep of my family and payment of bills.
“Through vending things seem to be well, but most of the time we [vendors] play hide and seek with Harare City Council officials and the Zimbabwe Republic Police officers so as to avoid arrests since it is illegal,” he said with a sorrowful face.
Nyakoko has simple advice to the upcoming athletes who intend to take hand cycling as a profession.
“Para-sport is challenging you need to research more about the sport before committing yourself. The equipment to use is expensive, but with passion all things will work out,” Nyakoko said.
In a world where success is often measured by wealth and fame, Nyakoko’s story serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness lies in the positive impact we have on others.
The Chitungwiza-based cycling legend has traded in his experience for a life of service, dedicating himself to mentoring the next generation of hand-cycling athletes.
Though he may face financial challenges, his spirit remains unbroken and his determination to make a difference is an inspiration to many.
