More than 150 aspiring young cyclists gathered at the Field of Dreams in Bugesera District on Sunday to celebrate International Olympic Day, participating in a youth cycling race that showcased the vibrant future of Rwandan sport.
The event, held annually on June 23, was a collaborative effort between the Rwanda National Olympic and Sports Committee (RNSO) and the Rwanda Cycling Federation (FERWACY), uniting young athletes under the theme “Move, learn, discover, together for a better world.”
In the junior categories, Pacifique Byusa and Liliane Uwiringiye were crowned champions in the boys’ and girls’ category, followed by Jule Mugabo and Moise Ntirenganya, who secured second and third place, respectively, in the junior boys’ category, while Gisele Nishimwe and Grace Niyogisubizo earned second and third in the junior girls’ race.
The younger categories also saw strong performances. Francoise Uwamahoro of Ndabaga Women Cycling Team and Lucky Nisemusa Habumuremyi triumphed in the Under-11 girls’ and boys’ races. Ogila Igiraneza, Alliah Uwase, and Makuza Kaliza Gwiza took the top spots in the Under-13 girls’ category, while Gentil Munyeza, Francis Sano, and Thadee Igiraneza led the Under-13 boys.
In the Under-15 boys’ race, Arsene Sibomana from Cine Elmay team claimed victory, with Bubarak Byiringiro of ZIP Cycling team as runner-up and Prince Sano Ishimwe in third. Liza Jehovaire, Joy Cynthia Mwamikazi, and Emeline Ishimwe were the top three finishers in the Under-15 girls’ category.
The Under-17 races were won by Gentil Iradukunda (boys) and Akeline Nyirirambe (girls).
Basketball icon and former national team captain, Aristide Mugabe, graced the event as a guest of honor, imparting valuable wisdom to the young athletes. He emphasized the importance of discipline, stating, “Young athletes, being disciplined, is one of the keys to success. What we’re seeing on the ground indicates that the future of sport is in good hands.”
The awarding ceremony saw Samson Ndashimiye, the president of FERWACY, express his gratitude for the overwhelming participation and the dedication of the young athletes.
“Let me take this moment to thank everyone who collaborated on this. To our future cycling athletes, we’re happy for your greatness, so please continue investing your effort in this sport,” he urged.
Ndashimiye concluded with an inspiring message, reminding the young cyclists that while not everyone can reach the podium, persistence is key.
“When I was an athlete, it wasn’t easy to appear on the podium, but what’s important is that when you fail, you stand up again and aim to raise your country’s flag next time.”
