Joseph Blackmore Wins Tour du Rwanda 2024
Peter Joseph Blackmore, a rising star on the cycling scene with Israel Premier Tech, secured a remarkable victory in the 2024 Tour du Rwanda. He conquered the grueling eight-stage race and celebrated his achievement with a celebratory wheelie at the finish line in Kigali, the Rwandan capital.
By succeeding the previous year’s champion, Henok Mulueberhane, Blackmore solidified his dominance by clinching 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 fierce competition, he maintained a significant 30-second lead over Pierre Latour of TotalEnergies and other prominent riders.
Describing the challenging race, Blackmore acknowledged the demanding nature of the terrain and the constant need for strategic positioning. “It’s all about survival here,” 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, managed to secure 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 caliber 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 witnessed the participation of 94 riders from 19 different teams. However, only 63 cyclists could persevere 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 in the international cycling arena.
