Team Amani swept the top three places during the first leg of the 2024 LOOP Gravel Cycling Safari Series on Sunday at Tatu City.
The event, supported by LOOP Digital Financial Services (DFS), seeks to promote cycling as a sport and position the country as a top cycling destination.
Uganda's Jordan Schleck clocked 4:03:27 hours to emerge victorious in the 120km category ahead of Rwandese duo and team-mates Seth Hakizimana (4:04:15) and Eric Muhoza (4:04:30).
Moses Muiruri and Stanley Ngugi of Team Black Mamba completed the five places in 4:05:10 and 4:11:52, respectively.
In an interview, Schleck credited his team for the victory, saluting the competitors who gave them a tough time.
“It's an honour to win the first leg of the Gravel Cycling Safari Series. It was certainly a very tough competition with so many challenges on the terrain.
"However, I had a good team on my side and we managed to motivate each other to the finish line.
"We have been practicing for a long time for this challenge and we’re delighted to have emerged top,” Schleck said.
In the 60km category, Raymond Muchiri (2:02:10 hrs) and Tristan Byrne (2:17:41) of Team Baiskeli Adventures emerged victorious, beating a field of 158 cyclists.
Niels Van Dorn clocked 2:17:08 hrs for the third spot ahead of Gerald Taylor who finished fourth in 2:22:36.
In the 20km category, Alvin Maina of the Team Joy Riders clocked 1:06:23 to emerge victorious, defeating teammate Denis Njuguna who finished second in 1:06:23.
Ally Manji took the third spot (1:06:41) while Amit Pandya finished fourth (1:06:57). The category attracted 162 participants.
The winners in the Elite category pocketed Sh100,000, with the team winners taking home Sh250,000 in prize money.
Speaking after the race, Loop DFS CEO Eric Muriuki expressed admiration for the cyclists and their exemplary display of grit and determination.
