Returning to Rwanda, where our commitment began two years ago, was a roller coaster of emotions, full of joy, pride and – let’s put it bluntly – sore muscles. This year’s participation in the Rwanda Epic was an experience that we will all remember for a long time.
As soon as we met Florent, our reliable local partner, it felt like coming home. Florent and the kids from the Twin Lake Cycling Academy (TLCA) are the core of our club’s work, and this year we were able to compete with loads of luggage: four new bikes, as well as helmets, clothing and lots of spare parts. Together with our mechanic team Philipp Deihle, Daniel Gathof and Florian Magdalenc, the bikes were painstakingly put together in advance of our trip from donated parts, classified ad deals and online bargains. The new bikes were not only adapted to the athletes in Rwanda, but the local fleet at the African Rising Cycling Center (ARCC) was also brought into shape. Tires changed, gears adjusted, and a crash course in bike care every now and then – this is what hands look like that really make a difference.
However, before we plunged into the countless fantastic trails of Rwanda, Gerry, a club member from beautiful Austria, gave a crash course in riding technique training. The boys and girls from the TLCA and ARCC had a lot of fun and really got into the various exercises.
TLCA rocks the race!
The TLCA had four teams at the start this year – a milestone! And the results speak for themselves:
- Our Daniel Gathof, defending champion from last year, took second place in the overall ranking with his partner. Applause!
- We are particularly proud of the team around Didi and Banzi, who achieved a strong 3rd place.
- And the most important thing: All TLCA teams successfully completed the race – proof of the tireless training and constant development of our young talents.
Greenhorns on Tour
This year we had two club members from Ravensburg with us, Hannes Eberspächer and Daniel Pitrella, who courageously took on the adventure of Rwanda. The two not only discovered their love for mountain bike racing, but also for the country and its people. They helped set up the bikes, enjoyed the breathtaking landscapes and – yes, they finished the tough race! The pride is still written on their faces.
Moments that last
A real highlight – also for the camera of Don and his film team Kilian and Andre – was the handover of a bicycle to eleven-year-old Nadine. At her school, in front of over 300 screaming kids, she was all smiles as she received her new bike. A moment that will definitely be remembered.
By the way, the film team accompanies us for a reason: a documentary about the vision of Florent and his Academy is currently being produced under the title “How one bicycle can change a life”. Two of our protégés play the main roles. We can’t wait to show you the film next year – another step towards making our work and its impact visible.
Conclusion
The Rwanda Epic 2024 was more than just a race – it was an affirmation of why we exist as a club. Together with you, we have built something that really makes a difference: wheels, hearts and perspectives.
Thanks to everyone who contributed – whether on site or from afar. And for everyone who gets wanderlust while reading: We are already looking forward to the next adventure in Rwanda.
