Rwanda’s top cyclist Adrien Niyonshuti has intensified preparations for the tour of Gabon, dubbed ‘La Tropicale Amissa Bongo’ slated to run from January 19 to 24.

The 22-year-old, who rides for South African cycling club MTN Energrade, has been training for the last 18 days as he bids to become the first Rwandan to win a foreign competition.

Speaking to Times Sport yesterday, he said that he’s now riding distances of more than 150km a day, and will continue to do so until the team is called into residential training.

"I have increased my preparations for the tour of Gabon because my main target next year is to win an international competition away from home. I have been riding distances of 150km per day, the kind of training that can help me to achieve my target,” he said. 

Niyonshuti is currently training in Ruhengeri with fellow Team Rwanda mates; Abraham Ruhumuriza, Nathan Byukusenge, Nicodem Habiyambere, Obed Ruvogera, Nyandwi Uwase and Rafiki Jean de dieu Uwimana.

This year, young rider made history when he became the first Rwandan to ride alongside all time cycling greats like seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong and ten time tour of Ireland winner Mark Cavendish during the tour of Ireland in August.

Last month, he finished third in the Tour of Rwanda, in a race dominated by riders from Morocco. 

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