Rwanda’s top cyclists André Niyonshuti and Nathan Byukusenge finished in 11 and 27 positions respectively in the Elite men’s category of MTN Mountain Bikers Series in Barberton, South Africa.

Niyonshuti clocked 5 hours and 46 minutes, while Byukusene clocked 6 hours and 19 minutes. The two were selected by MTN Rwanda as their representative in the prestigious Barberton Mountain Bikers’ Series, which is sponsored by the MTN group. 

The races included the Marathon (75 km) for the professionals, the half marathon (45km) for the average mountain biker and the fun ride (10km) for the family group.

The president of the national cycling federation Aimable Bayingana said that the cyclists were let down by inexperience.

"It is the first time our cyclists were taking part in a competition of this magnitude,’ admitted Bayingana.

The professional race was won by South African Burry Stander, who clocked 2 hours and 54 minutes; he was followed by last year’s winner Kevin Evans in 2 hours and 55 minutes.

Yolande de Villers won the women’s category in 3 hours and 35 minutes and was closely followed by Speedy Yolande who clocked 3 hours and 35 minutes.

The Masters and Veteran’s category were won by Christopher Brand and Petruschka consterancon respectively.

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