In the bustling city of Antsirabe, Madagascar, a remarkable transformation is unfolding as rickshaw drivers are not only navigating the chaotic streets but also dominating international endurance races. Haja Nirina, a cycle rickshaw driver, exemplifies this shift, having honed his athletic skills over five years while managing his transport business. Unlike the majority of drivers in this competitive market, Nirina no longer pays a daily rental fee of 5,000 ariary for his vehicle, thanks to a unique microcredit programme initiated by his local athletics club.
The Origins of Crown Athletics Club
Crown Athletics Club traces its roots back to 1997, when Tsiry Rakotomalala organised Antsirabe's first rickshaw race, offering prizes such as rice and chickens. The event's popularity led to the formation of the club, which gained significant momentum with Yann Mayette's appointment as president in 2017. Mayette, who moved from France a decade ago, recognised the untapped potential of Madagascar's athletes and introduced a microcredit plan, enabling drivers like Nirina to purchase their rickshaws outright.
Economic and Social Impact
Antsirabe, located about 100 miles south of the capital Antananarivo, boasts over 4,000 rickshaws for a population of 265,000, making it the cheapest mode of transport for people and goods. Nirina typically makes 10 to 15 trips daily, earning between 10,000 and 15,000 ariary. By owning his rickshaw, he reduces his expenses to just 500 ariary for storage, allowing him to focus more on rigorous training and competitive events. This financial freedom is a game-changer in a profession where most drivers struggle under rental burdens.
Training and Achievements
The club's members, including rising star Jean-Claude Rakotonirina, known as Diry, train diligently, often running 20-25km daily while pulling hand-rickshaws. Nirina himself runs 10km to and from his home near paddy fields, sometimes adding uphill detours for extra challenge. Under Rakotomalala's coaching, the athletes participate in local competitions, with Crown runners frequently sweeping medals and trophies. In a notable achievement, Nirina and compatriot Mamie Andrianirina competed in the Mascareignes race in Réunion, with Nirina finishing second in an impressive 8 hours, 46 minutes, and 7 seconds.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite their successes, the athletes face significant hurdles, including inadequate equipment and limited sponsorship. Mayette collects used running shoes from donors in France, as many drivers still work barefoot, highlighting the social and economic challenges in Madagascar. The club's future remains uncertain, as Mayette and his wife currently finance all expenses, with no major sponsors yet stepping in. However, the drivers' dedication and love for the sport, as Nirina emphasises, drive them forward, proving that with support, they can compete at professional levels globally.
