Rwanda eyes 2018 Winter Olympics

THE Rwanda National Olympic and Sport Committee (RNOSC) is exploring the possibility of competing at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games that will be held in the Republic of Korea capital Pyeongchang. The development was confirmed by the RNOSC Executive Director of RNOSC Martin Koonce after leading a six-man delegation to Alpensia resort in Pyeongchang from January 12-27 where they took part in the downhill skiing as a test event. Alongside Koonce, Rwanda was represented by three Paralympians namely; IPC World Championships gold medalist Hermas Cliff Muvunyi, Emile Cadet Vuningabo and Dinnah Kabazayire as well as two Taekwondo players; Daphine Uwababyeyi and Vincent Munyakazi. “It is a real possibility that Rwandans can participate in the 2018 Winter Olympics and if we believe, Rwanda can be competitive if we begin preparing now,” said Koonce. He said the focus will be to compete in downhill skiing, short track speed skating, cross country skiing and biathlon, which is a combination of shooting and cross country skiing. Muvunyi expressed delight at the experience of skiing, “It was a good experience and there is hope that we can perform well.” Over 150 youths from 37 countries from across the world took part in this annual programme which will run up to 2018. The countries include Brunei, Philippines, Rwanda, Ukraine, India, Thailand, Guatemala, Ecuador, Mexico as well as other African countries like Togo, Gabon, Morocco, South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Uganda.

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Rwanda eyes 2018 Winter Olympics