RWANDA’s long-distance runners, Epiphanie Nyirabarame and Jean Baptiste Ruvubi left for Cameroon last night ahead of this year’s ‘Ascension du Mont Cameroon’ race due this Saturday.

The newly-wed Nyirabarame and her colleague Ruvubi were selected two weeks ago by the local athletics governing body (Raf) to represent the country in the annual 38km race. 

"My target is winning a medal. I have trained intensively for this event for the last two weeks so that I can fight for Rwanda’s pride,” said 32-year-old Nyirabarame, who will be marking a maiden appearance at the event.

Hosts Cameroon have provided all the necessary requirements, including air tickets, accommodation and meals to enable the Rwanda’s duo to take part in the event.

The winner will walk away with US$20,000 (about Rwf13.8m).