Over 60 riders are expected to take part in the forthcoming 2023 edition of the Heroes Cycling Cup race that will take place on January 29 in Kigali.

The one-day race is organized annually by the Cycling governing body (Ferwacy) in collaboration with the National Heroes, Medals and Rings of Commendation (CHENO) as part of the celebrations of the Heroes Day.

It is also part of the competition’s drive to inspire and encourage heroism among Rwandans, starting from younger generations.

Organisers are doing all they can to ensure that at least every participant walks home with a prize no matter how small it could be.

Ferwacy president Abdallah Murenzi said that the race will also be an opportunity for Team Rwanda riders to prepare for the highly-anticipated Tour du Rwanda 2023 slated for February 19-26.

"Some would last months without a competition and that would affect their performance at Tour du Rwanda. but I believe this year will be different as riders who are not going for La Tropicale Amissa Bongo will have a chance to compete at the Heroes Cup to maintain their level of performance at its best,” Murenzi said.

This year’s race attracted riders in both junior and elite categories for men and women.

Riders will run around Kigali City where they will start from Arena through Gishushu, Kibagabaga before returning to Kigali Arena with ten laps which cover the distance of116km for men elites and U23.

Juniors’ women riders will do six laps of 69,6 kilometres while women elites and men juniors will race a distance of 92,6km.

A number of elite riders will be absent at the Heroes Cycling Cup as they prepare to travel in Gabon ahead of La Tropicale Amissa Bongo 2023 race slated for January 23-29.