Africa-Press – Rwanda. For the first time, Rwanda is hosting the UCI Road World Championships, marking the first time the global cycling event has come to Africa.
The competition has drawn hundreds of riders and teams, with projections of more than 330 million viewers worldwide. On the opening day was September 21.
At the fanzone in Kacyiru, people shared their experiences and impressions with The New Times.
Here is what they said:
Tyrone Gakuba.
I was running (jogging) but I decided to stop and come and see this. I wasn’t expecting such a big crowd, and as soon as I arrived, the best thing happened: (Shemu) Nsengiyumva took the first place. I witnessed it with my own eyes, and it was amazing to see this competition at the highest level of cycling in my own country.
Linda Wasir, a Rwandan based in Canada (she came to the fan zone).
I’m very happy because we get to be introduced to another kind of sport that not all of us are familiar with. It’s great to see President Kagame’s vision for the country in terms of sports and entertainment coming to life and pulling us to a greater level than other African countries.
(Iam) not really (a fan of cycling), but I love anything to do with winning. When you see the community, when you see people together, it’s nice to get involved, visit shops, meet friends.
Fanan, another Rwandan fan.
I’m very excited and proud to be here. Experiencing and witnessing this whole event is a great stage for Africa and Rwanda.
Samuel, a Rwandan-Eritrean
I support both Eritrea and Rwanda, but I’m rooting for one player in particular, Biniam Girmay.
Emma Rwigema, a Rwandan fan.
I’m here for Team Rwanda and especially Shemu (Nsengiyumva). My favourite moment is still to come because this is just the beginning. I’m excited to see the teams compete in the trial races. What stands out so far is the support from everyone.
This is a big deal for Rwanda and for Africa. To anyone missing out: if you’re at home, you’re missing the energy, the vibe. Come out, network, make friends, and enjoy life.
Deborah, Rwandan fan
I’m so excited to be here. Seeing a Rwandan coming through was something I felt very proud of. My favourite moment was watching the cyclists come in one by one, with the crowd cheering. It was really exciting. I’ll try to attend every evening during the week, although my work schedule won’t allow me to be here all day.
David Jambu, Nigerian fan
I feel excited because this is the first time ever that the World Championship has been brought to Africa. It’s an experience that cannot be missed. Thank you to the UCI for bringing this, because it gives people a different view of Africa – the nature, the wind, the roads.
The roads are top-notch, extremely good asphalt. My favourite moment hasn’t come yet; I’m waiting for one of the elite riders, Pogačar, and I hope he wins. To those missing this event, you are missing something that can never be replaced. It’s one of a kind. Shout out to Rwanda for hosting.”
Vincent, Belgian fan
Africa has been underrepresented, so it was time for something this big to happen in Rwanda. So far, so good, but the real excitement will come at the end when the best riders compete.
Dan Muhire, Rwandan fan
I’m rooting for Team Rwanda. I don’t know the riders very well, but I support them wholeheartedly.
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