Rwanda’s most acclaimed cyclist Adrien Niyonshuti has confirmed that he will compete in the South Africa Mountain Bike race. The race is scheduled for January 6 in Johannesburg.

Speaking to Times Sport yesterday, Niyonshuti, 22 said he will be using the event, the first on the South Africa Cycling calendar as part of his preparations for the Tour of Gabon, which takes place four days after the SA Mountain Bike race.

"I am in good shape as I prepare for the Gabon tour. The (Mountain Bike) race in South African will only enhance my training,” said Niyonshuti.

The MTN Energrade (South Africa) rider will fly to Gabon immediately after the SA competition where he’ll join his Team Rwanda mates.

Niyonshuti, who finished in 8th position after clocking 4 hours and 10 minutes in his debut in the annual Mountain Bike race last year, is now aiming to finish in a better position as a test for the Gabon tour.

His teammates; Abraham Ruhumuriza, Nathan Byukusenge, Obed Ruvogera, Uwase Nyandwi, and Jean de Dieu  Rafiki Uwimana are also expected to start training (in the country) after the festive period.

Niyonshuti is also beginning to anticipate new ways of regaining his Tour of Rwanda title that he lost to a Moroccan rider this year. He clocked 29:31:41 to finish in third place.

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