British Cyclist Takes Home Tour du Rwanda 2024 Title
The 2024 Tour du Rwanda witnessed the rise of a new champion, Peter Joseph Blackmore, a young British cyclist with Israel Premier Tech. Blackmore emerged victorious in the grueling eight-stage race and celebrated his triumph with a celebratory wheelie at the finish line in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital.
Taking the mantle from last year’s champion, Henok Mulueberhane, Blackmore cemented his dominance by winning the final stage in a solo sprint. He covered the 73.3-kilometer distance in an impressive time of 1 hour, 47 minutes, and 37 seconds. Despite intense competition, Blackmore maintained a 30-second lead over Pierre Latour of TotalEnergies and other prominent riders.
Speaking about the challenging race, Blackmore acknowledged the demanding terrain and the constant need for strategic positioning. “It’s all about survival,” he remarked. “You always need to be in the right place, especially with all the corners, steep climbs, and tired legs. Even though today’s stage was short, it was incredibly tough.”
While the top African contender, Yemane Dawit of Eritrea, secured the 10th position representing Team Bike Aid, the previous champion, Mulueberhane, was unfortunately unable to defend his title due to a shoulder injury.
The Rwandan Minister of Sports, Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju, expressed her satisfaction with the race’s level and intensity. “The final stage’s intensity was truly remarkable, matching the standards expected for next year’s World Cycling Championships,” she said. “This year’s tournament is a testament to our readiness to host the 2025 UCI Road World Championship. Two years of meticulous preparation have truly paid off.”
The 2024 edition of the Tour du Rwanda saw 94 riders from 19 teams participate. However, only 63 cyclists persevered through the challenging 718.9-kilometer course, marking the shortest distance since 2009.
Blackmore’s victory solidifies his position as a rising star in the cycling world. It is a significant accomplishment for the Tour du Rwanda, showcasing its growing prominence on the international cycling stage. This year’s race signifies the growing strength of African cyclists and paves the way for an exciting future for the sport on the continent.