France-based Rwandan long distance runner Eric Mazimpaka has intensified preparations for the forthcoming 29th edition of Caen Marathon de la Liberte slated for June 12 in France’s northwestern city of Caen.

Mazimpaka, who is professionally affiliated to Lyon-based club AS Rispoli Villeurbanne since 2010 is set for a memorable debut seeking for the minima standards to compete in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games scheduled to take place from August 5-12 in Brazil.

Since January this year, the 33-year-old athlete has been in Rwanda where he has been undergoing rigorous training alongside other local athletes to improve his fitness before debuting in the ‘Marathon de la Liberte.’

"Preparations are going on pretty well and since I started training in January, I have improved highly, and I am optimistic to qualify for the Olympic Games and win the tournament as well,” said Mazimpaka

Mpazimpaka, who is currently training in Kamonyi ranges, Kamonyi-Muhanga high way, and Amahoro national stadium, revealed that he decided to train in Rwanda after establishing that the Courseulles-Sur-Mer (starting point) and Caen Parc Expo (Endpoint) have a landscape similar to Rwanda’s- hilly and flat terrain.

 He further noted: "This is a very strong and tough competition, but I have competed and won other competitions in France and I feel confident to win it given the best altitude I am training in.” 

In France, Mazimpaka has won three competitions including, Miles Interceltiques de Lorient, a 16km race, Trochee pont l’abel half marathon plus Marathon international de Beaujolais, all in 2011.

Dieudonne Disi is the only other Rwandan to have competed in Caen marathon after debuting in 2014 where he won the half-marathon.

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