This year's edition promises to be an exciting competition as participants, including 19 Rwandan riders, tackle some of the most rugged and scenic landscapes in the country. International veterans and the well-known Silverbacks teams, have joined the race, which tests the endurance, skill, and resilience of cyclists across multiple stages.
The race kicked off on October 21, 2024 with the prologue stage around Mount Kigali, where riders navigated an 8.8 kilometer loop through urban and forest terrain. Starting at Fazenda Sengha, the route offers a challenging mix of surfaces with a 260-meter elevation gain.
Over the coming days, competitors will face even more grueling stages. One of the highlights is the Mount Kabuye stage, a 95 kilometer ride from Nyirangarama to ARCC, with a massive elevation gain of 2551 meters.
This stage, known for its tough climbs, is expected to challenge even the most seasoned cyclists. Another key stage is the Twin Lakes route, which spans 54.9 kilometers and takes riders through scenic trails and volcanic terrain, finishing at the Musanze Football Stadium.
Another stage of the race will be conducted in the Volcanoes special time regulation for riders will be mandatory in completing complete all 6 laps covering a distance of 29.8kilometers. Riders will be allocated a time penalty for each lap not completed, added to their slowest lap time.
The Rwanda Epic mountain bike race will culminate in the final Gishwati-Rubavu stage, a 65.5 kilometer stretch that ends at the picturesque Rubavu Beach. With rolling trails and a danger zone that covers nearly 40 kilometers, this final stage will push riders to their limits as they race to the finish line.
At the launch of race, Simon De Schutter, the Head of the organizing team said that Rwanda Epic is more than just a test of athletic endurance.
'Over 60 support staff, including four doctors and the Red Cross, are on hand throughout the event to ensure the safety of the cyclists. The race also involves the local community, with over 300 people engaged in various capacities, working closely with local authorities and organizations to make the event a success,' he said.
In addition to the main race, local riders will have the opportunity to compete in the Abanyonzi Race, an open competition in Musanze where they will vie for prizes, further showcasing Rwanda's growing cycling talent.
Riders compete in various categories, including duo men, duo women, mixed teams, Silverbacks (for combined team ages of 99 years and above), Best Rwandan Team, and Solo. Stage winners and overall champions will be celebrated for their achievements across Rwanda's diverse and challenging terrain.
The Rwanda Epic has grown into a premier cycling event that not only highlights the physical endurance of the athletes but also showcases the natural beauty of the country.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes and rugged trails, the race draws attention to Rwanda's potential as a cycling destination while promoting sports and tourism.
As the competition progresses, cycling enthusiasts can look forward to constant updates and results, capturing the thrilling journey of these riders as they push themselves through each stage.
Sam K Nkurunziza
Source : https://en.igihe.com/sports/article/rwanda-epic-mountain-bike-race-kicks-off-pictorial
