THE national cycling team (Team Rwanda) departs this afternoon for Yaoundé-Cameroon with high hopes of a better performance in the tour of Cameroon than the one registered in the Gabon tour, according to team coach Jonathan Boyer.

Team Rwanda finished in 10th position out of the 15 countries that took part but Boyer reasons that the Gabon tour, which is classified as 2:1 by the International Cycling Union (UCI) and attracts the cream of Africa’s cyclists, is a very tough race.

He said, "We have a better chance of putting in a better show in Cameroon because we are on the same level as most of our opponents (don’t have so many professionals).”

"The lads are determined to follow in Niyonshuti’s footsteps and become professionals and the only way to do so is by impressing in such continental competitions,”the American added.

Meanwhile, Boyer has made two changes from the team that travelled to Gabon.

Gasore Hategeka and Emanuel Uwamungu have replaced Emmanuel Rudahunga and Innocent Nshyimiyimana.

The 10-man delegation that includes two federation officials, a mechanic, six riders and Boyer departs this afternoon aboard Kenya airways.

The 11-day competition will attract 10 countries; Rwanda, Morocco, Gabon, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, Bukinafaso, Burundi, Tunisia and Cameroon.

Ends