For some spectators like Gentille Abimpaye, who found the official name of the event a bit long, simply calling it 'UCI' was enough while they enjoyed the thrilling competition that turned Kigali's clean streets into a celebration.
On September 27, fans witnessed the women's under-19 and elite women's races. That day, late-term pregnant Abimpaye, had gone to watch the finish line at the Kigali Convention Centre in Kimihurura.
By early afternoon, labor pains started. An ambulance quickly rushed her to Kacyiru Hospital, where she received immediate medical care.
'I didn't have health insurance, I didn't have anything with me, but they welcomed me and didn't turn me away. They helped me so much. I am truly grateful! They assisted me through labor, and I gave birth to a baby girl at around 11 p.m. I had no clothes for the baby, but they provided them instantly. I had no food or porridge, but they took care of me and did everything possible,' Abimpaye said.
The championship â€" the first of its kind ever held in Rwanda and Africa â€" thrilled many Rwandans who followed it closely. For Abimpaye, the experience was extraordinary because she witnessed the athletes sprinting to the finish line at KCC just hours before giving birth.
Since labor began while she was cheering for the cyclists and delivered on the same day, she decided to name her daughter Ange UCI Noella, a name she says will forever remind her of the historic competition in Kigali.
'I named her 'UCI' because I was cheering for the last cyclist coming in; I raised my hands like everyone else, but when I tried to lower and lift them again, I felt labor starting. I was rushed to the hospital and gave birth before midnight, still on the same day. This will always remind me that my daughter was born during the World Road Cycling Championships,' she explained.
Her husband, Ildephonse Ntarwimo, praised Kacyiru Hospital's management for helping his wife despite her lacking the usual documentation required for maternity admission.
'We owe everything to the good leadership of His Excellency the President of the Republic. Without it, such quality healthcare services would not be possible,' he said.
Reflecting on the experience, Abimpaye admitted she made a mistake by not carrying essential items in case labor started unexpectedly, even though she knew her due date was near. She advised expectant mothers to always be prepared.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwandan-woman-names-newborn-after-uci-race
