Title defenders Samuel Niyonkuru and Xaverine Nirere, both riding for Team Amani, secured the first-ever road race discipline introduced in the third edition of the Umusambi Gravel Race in the men’s and women’s elite categories, crossing the finish line in Gicumbi District, Northern Province. The two-day race, organised by the Rwanda Cycling Federation (FERWACY) in collaboration with the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association (RWCA), was held to raise awareness for wildlife conservation and their natural habitats, specifically cranes. It commenced in Kabuga (Umusambi Village). The men’s elite road race, which covered 104.6 km, saw Niyonkuru triumph at the last second, crossing the finish line first. He was followed by Eric Nkundabera and Shemu Nsengiyumva, riding for Java Innovotec. Nsengiyumva, who is also part of the national U23 squad preparing to compete in the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, finished in third place. ALSO READ: Team Rwanda coach names roasters for 2025 World Champs The women’s elite race featured a shorter circuit with a total distance of 76 km, from Karuruma in Gasabo District heading to Gicumbi. The race was won by Team Amani rider Xaverine Nirere, followed by Valentine Nzayisenga from Benediction Cycling Team in second place, while Martha Ntakirutimana crossed the finish line in third. In the junior category, Byiringiro Habimana from Les Amis Sportif and Liliane Uwiringiyimana crossed first in the boys’ and girls’ categories respectively, both covering 63 km. The following day, on Saturday, August 23, the races will be held around the Rugezi Swamp. Cyclists will navigate dirt roads spanning six sectors of Burera District 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.
