Editor,

I am extremely excited about the next year’s London Olympic Games. The event, which brings together the very best athletes in the world, is one that I have watched avidly since the 1988 Seoul Olympics, where my childhood hero, Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson, tested positive for steroids and broke my heart.

Since then, I have watched as Michael Phelps, Marion Jones and Usain Bolt have become household names, thanks to their amazing exploits.

I am saddened, however, by the fact that I don’t know even one Rwandan athlete that is going to the Games, or at least attempting to. That is where the local media comes in. They should highlight these athletes, interview them and profile them. I think The New Times, as the main newspaper in the land, should lead the way.

Sam Rwego
Kimihurura

Editor – Thanks for expressing interest in this important event; please note that Rwanda’s top cyclist Adrien Niyonshuti has already qualified for the Games, with more athletes still gunning for the remaining slots. Meanwhile, the national sitting volleyball team, two athletes (athletics and power-lifting) have already qualified for the London Paralympic Games.
However, we shall follow the contestants and teams closely as they prepare for the games and eventually take part.