The third edition of Umusambi Gravel Race, scheduled for the weekend of August 22-23, around Rugezi swamp in Gicumbi and Burera districts, will, for the very first time, feature a “Road Race,” according to organisers. The race is organised annually by Rwanda Cycling Federation (FERWACY) in collaboration with the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association (RWCA), a local conservation body dedicated to protecting wild animals and their natural habitats, with a particular focus on the cranes conservation. Organisers say the inclusion of a road race is intended to give athletes more racing opportunities as they prepare for the upcoming 2025 UCI Road World Championships. On Friday, August 22, the men’s road race will cover 104.6 km, starting from RWCA headquarters in Kabuga (Umusambi Village) and passing through Giporoso, Prince House, Poids Lourds, Yamaha, Muhima, Nyabugogo, Gatsata, Karuruma, Gicumbi, and Miyove before finishing in Ibanda. The women’s elite will ride through a shorter circuit with a total distance of 76 km route from Karuruma, while juniors will cover 50 km. ALSO READ: Twagirayezu wins Rwanda Junior Tour The following day will see the traditional gravel races around the Rugezi swamp. Cyclists will navigate dirty roads spanning six sectors of Burera and two from Gicumbi. Riders using the popular Matabaro bicycles [Pneux ballons] will start in Rwerere and finish in Ibanda after a 45 km ride. Professional cyclists will take on a tougher 90 km course, starting and ending in Ibanda after looping through Butaro and circling eight sectors bordering the swamp. Last year’s winners included Niyonkuru Samuel in the men’s category, Irakoze Neza Violette in the women’s, Nshutiraguma Kevin in juniors, and Iragena Charlotte in the senior category. This year’s race also coincides with RWCA’s 10th anniversary. Since 2015, when the crane population numbered fewer than 300. The association, in partnership with the Government of Rwanda, has helped the bird’s population grow to 1,293 in 2024.
