The newly elected Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay, Mongameli Bobani says the 2018 Isuzu IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship will be a global showpiece.
Set to take place this weekend, Bobani says the event will be his top priority, and his installment as new mayor will have no hindrance to the organisation, and the hosting of the first-ever African edition of the continental race.
"I want to assure the visitors, athletes, residents, organisers, and sponsors of the 2018 Isuzu IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship that we are committed to fulfilling our contractual obligations as the first ever African or South African host city - for that matter - entrusted to deliver on a truly memorable experience".
"Our campaign entitled Molo Festival of Triathlon is in full swing with daily activities taking place at Hobie Beach and Fan Parks that are being set up in Gelvandale, Kwanobuhle, Walmer, and Motherwell to provide residents with entertainment and live coverage on big screens on Saturday and Sunday".
"I call on our residents to participate in the festivities as the hosting of such a prestigious event will unlock many opportunities for local businesses and contribute massively to the Gross Domestic Product of the Eastern Cape Province.
Bobani added that it is his mission to ensure that through the hosting of this global event, both athletes and visitors leave Port Elizabeth, having experienced the distinct African flair the Metro has to offer.
Commenting on safety pertaining to the event, Bobani told AlgoaFM News that safety procedures have been taken over from the previous head of safety following his election into the mayoral chair on Monday. He gave the assurance that safety precautions are already in place as they've simply taken over the safety plan of the previous political party leadership. They, however, will ensure that this plan is maximised and that there is enough time to ensure this happens, he said. "As citizens of the city we have a duty to roll out the red carpet for our guests show them why we are known as the Friendly City," he said. "With your help, we can do justice to the theme The Fiercest race in the Friendliest City".
