Samuel Tuyisenge (men) and Hanani Uwineza (women) emerged winners of the 2024 'Race to Remember Triathlon' tournament that took place in Bugesera District held on Sunday, June 2. The one-day event was organiseed on the occasion to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi through sports. ALSO READ: Ironman Rwanda 70.3 wins global award Led by Rwanda Triathlon Federation president Alexis Mbaraga, participants, including athletes, coaches, officials, and fans, began the day by paying their respects to over 45,000 Tutsis laid to rest at Nyamata Genocide Memorial. This competition is organized with the aim of teaching young people about the history that the country has gone through to prevent it from repeating itself,” said Mbaraga. The triathlon race, held in Nyamata, featured a sprint format comprising a 750-meter swim, 20-kilometer bike ride, and a 5-kilometer run. Of the 52 athletes who participated at the competition, 32 competed in the relay team format, while five unable to finish. In the individual category, Samuel Tuyisenge of Cercle Sportif de Karongi finished first clocking 1:45:10. He overcame competition from his teammates Eric Iradukunda and Christian Byiriringo who finished second and third. In women’s category, Uwineza of Gisenyi Beach Triathlon Club won the race after clocking 2:10:10, just ahead of Valentine Uwizeye. The event also included a category for disabled athletes, with notable performances from Augustin Rukundo and Moussa Turamyimana. Men’s triathlon race winner Tuyisenge emphasised the significance and importance of the event, saying that, “Such a competition is especially important for us young people who were born after the Genocide against the Tutsi.” “We are learning from the history that characterized our country and we will do everything possible so that it does not happen again, he added. Top performers from this event will have the opportunity to represent Rwanda in the IRONMAN 70.3 competition, set to take place in Rubavu District on August 4, 2024.
