Rwanda’s cycling fraternity is in shock after the sudden death of rising cycling star Godfrey a.k.a Cho Gahemba in a motor accident on Sunday in Rwamagana, Eastern Province.

The 17-year old cyclist who also doubled as the head coach of the East Province cycling team in the ongoing Good governance championship was hit by a speeding vehicle while giving instructions to his team during the stage of Rwamagana to Kayaonza.

Gahemba who had been dubbed as the budding face of Rwandan cycling surpassed all expectations when he finished third in this year’s Tour De Rwanda.  

Gahemba represented Rwanda at this year’s Junior World Championship in South Africa. He finished 162 after fellow compatriot Innocent Sibomana had dropped out of the race.

Rwanda’s cycling body, Ferwacy secretary, Emmanuel Murenzi told Times Sport yesterday that Gahemba was a talent for the future who the country would bank on for success in future international tournaments.

"He has been one of the leading young cyclists in the country and we expected him to make Rwanda proud at the 2012 London Olympic Games.”

"The cycling fraternity has lost such a big talent, May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Murenzi said, adding that the fallen star will be greatly missed by Adrien Niyonshuti, Jonathan Boyer, the rest of Team Rwanda and Rwanda at large.

Gahemba who lost his parents during the 1994 Genocide against the Tustis was raised by fellow national cyclist Adrien Niyonshuti.

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