Paris 2024 medalists champion mobility equity through 4,500km East African cycling tour

Two New Zealand Olympic athletes have made a strategic stop at Tatu City as part of their ambitious 4,500 kilometer cycling expedition across East Africa, highlighting the transformative power of bicycle access in rural communities.

Hamish Legarth, who competed in sprint kayaking at Paris 2024 and Nicole Shields, a silver medalist in track cycling from the same games, are undertaking this cross continental journey to raise funds for World Bicycle Relief, an international organization focused on improving access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities through bicycle distribution.

The Olympians’ visit to the mixed use development north of Nairobi included a community ride through the city’s extensive trail network, joined by staff from Nova Pioneer School and Tatu City management. The event showcased the development’s cyclist friendly infrastructure, which prioritizes non-motorized transport alongside vehicular traffic.

“The more bicycles we can deliver, the more lives we can impact,” said Hamish during the visit.

His cycling partner emphasized the broader mission behind their journey. “We’re not just cycling for adventure, we’re cycling for access, for equity,” added Nicole. “A bicycle in the hands of a student or healthcare worker can be life changing.”

The tour has already taken the pair to Kisumu, where they visited World Bicycle Relief’s regional distribution hub and Iten, renowned as a training ground for Kenya’s elite distance runners. Their route continues across East Africa, with each stop designed to raise awareness about mobility challenges in rural areas.

The athletes’ mission aligns with Kenya’s expanding cycling culture, evidenced by recent infrastructure developments like the opening of Limitless Outdoors at Tatu City. The specialized outfitter provides mountain bike rentals, trail access and cycling programs for local schools.

“Our goal is to turn a simple ride into a memorable outdoor experience,” said Bobby Reriani, founder of Limitless Outdoors. “Tatu City provides the perfect backdrop, safe, scenic, and built for modern living.”

Tatu City, developed by Rendeavour, spans 5,000 acres and accommodates 25,000 daily visitors and residents. The development features over 100 kilometers of nature trails and has hosted major sporting events, including a marathon and cycling challenge that attracted more than 6,000 participants.

The city’s wellness initiatives are led by Kenyan World Champion and Olympian Lornah Kiplagat, who serves as the development’s wellness ambassador.