Habiyambere turns attention to FEASSSA Games

After claiming the inaugural Umubano Hotel Tennis Open on Saturday for his first major title, Ernest Habiyambere has shifted focus to the East African Post-Primary Games. This year’s regional post-primary inter-schools Games, which are organised by the Federation of East African Secondary School Sports Association, kicked off yesterday and will run up to August 24 in Huye and Gisagara Districts in the Southern Province. The 16-year old Habiyambere, seeded fifth for the tournament, clinched Umubano Open title after beating Rwanda’s number two Olivier Havugimana in straight sets 6-3, 6-3 in the final. Habiyambere, who will play for the Rwanda select tennis team, told Times Sport that he is in great mood and his target is to win a gold medal. “I’m feeling great after winning Umubano Open; it really boosted my confidence going into the FEASSSA Games. I want to help the team to win the (tennis) title for Rwanda,” the youngster said. But the right-hander conceded he does not know much about what to expect in FEASSSA Games since he is making his debut at the annual competitions but promised not to underestimate any opponent. By press time, the draws for the first round were yet to be released. The eight-day twelve-discipline event has attracted over 3000 athletes from six countries namely; South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi and hosts Rwanda. After the FEASSSA Games, Habiyambere, who is ranked fifth in Africa and 80th globally at the junior level, will have few days for prepare for the 2015 Youth Commonwealth Games slated for September 5-12 in Samoa. Rwanda’s tennis team for FEASSSA Games: Boys: Ernest Habiyambere, Fabrice Tuyishime, David Uwimana, Jules Ndibwami and David Kabanda.Girls: Olive Tuyishime, Chantal Mutuyimana, Flavia Kayitesi and Evelyne Kwizera. editorial@newtimes.co.rw