Natnael Tesfazion, 20, strengthened his credentials as race favourite after winning Stage 4, the longest stage this year, from Rusizi to Rubavu last Wednesday. / All photos by Plaisir Muzogeye
Natnael Tesfazion (in yellow) was well-guarded in the peloton by his Eritrean compatriots during Stage 8 on Sunday, having started the day with a 1:30 lead over closest challenger Moise Mugisha who finished second. Swiss rider Patrick Schelling completed the podium.
Amina Lanaya, Director General of the International Cycling Union (UCI), witnessed Stage 7 and 8 on and Saturday and Sunday, respectively. She has spoken highly of the race considered as the biggest in Africa.
Breathtaking views of evergreen tea plantations in Western Province have become a part and parcel of the Tour du Rwanda.
Novo Nordisk riders are seen tackling the legendary Wall of Kigali 'Mur de Kigali' during the ultimate Stage 8 on Sunday. The American team is entirely comprised of riders living with type 1 diabetes.
Of the 80 riders who started the race on February 23, only 57 managed to complete. Rwanda was the most represented country with 15 riders.
Over the years, Tour du Rwanda has proved to bring people together than any other sporting event in the country. About 3 million Rwandans watch the race every year.
Riders had to brave extreme weather conditions during some stages. Here was during Stage 6 from Musanze to Muhanga, which was won by sprinter Restrepo who rode for Italian side Androni Giocattoli.
Samuel Mugisha, the last Rwandan to win Tour du Rwanda (2018), finished in 15th position in general classification, nearly 12 minutes behind champion Natnael Tesfazion.
Tour du Rwanda is not short of such scenic landscapes.
