March 14

Yaounde to Bafia – 121km

Team Rwanda captain Nathan Byukusenge has revealed that his experience alongside veteran rider Abraham Ruhumuriza will come in handy at the upcoming Tour du Cameroun that commences tomorrow.

Familiar with competing in the West African country, Byukusenge, who represented Rwanda at this competition in 2008, 2009 and 2011 has revealed that emerging victorious is top priority.This is the first time in the history of cycling in the country that Team Rwanda is sending two teams to compete at international races simultaneously.

The team that left on Wednesday afternoon also includes two young riders; Jean Claude Uwizeye and Camera Hakuzimana, who are making their debut on the international race circuit as well as Emile Bintunimana and Patrick Byukusenge.

Team captain Byukusenge  said, "I have told them (the young riders) about international races and how they are different from competing at home. I told them to do away with fear because Abraham and I know Cameroun and the routes. We have to try and get points on the UCI calendar by winning.”

Uwizeye (21 years) and 23-year-old Hakuzimana are excited about the challenge ahead and believe that their recent success in the 2014 Tour du Rwanda will help them get accustomed to the test at hand, away from home.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw