Cycling: Dialogue will avert further misunderstandings

Editor, RE: “Team Rwanda senior cyclists’ behaviour was unbecoming” (The New Times, November 10).

Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Team Rwanda pose for a photo after a race. Some of the cyclists are not happy with the way the cycling federation is handling them. (File)

Editor,

RE: "Team Rwanda senior cyclists’ behaviour was unbecoming” (The New Times, November 10).

It is clear that cycling in Rwanda is on the decline. Over the years we performed very well in this sport with meagre resources. Now, it is absurd that with abundant resources and incredible support from our President, the national cycling team riders seem to be disorganised.

From what I read, I primarily blame Rwanda Cycling Federation for causing chaos. First, in Kinyarwanda we say that, "Ntawe utaka aho atababaye.”

Protesting indicates some levels of discontent and a decline of team spirit among the cyclists.

There is something missing that Rwanda’s cycling federation should have fixed, this could be a minor or a major issue such as insurance but good leadership always looks ahead, protesting should not happen.

Even if riders get what they want, I believe that their performance will be affected simply because the current atmosphere has created division among teammates—the loyalists to the federation and the bad apples. And this division may affect racing competitiveness.

Butare