By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer ll whatsapp 0756322265
The countdown is on for the 2nd Edition of the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship, with the preliminary races set to begin this weekend. Cyclists from all over the region are gearing up for the challenge, as they race through the varied terrains of Busoga to qualify for the grand finale.
In an exclusive interview with Busoga Times, Hambaali Jojo, the spokesperson for the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship, shared the final details ahead of the races, which will take place on Saturday, January 18, 2024, and Sunday, January 19, 2025.
Saturday, January 18, 2024: Bulamogi and Luuka Chiefdoms
The competition will kick off at 8:00 AM on Saturday, January 18, with participants racing in Bulamogi and Luuka Chiefdoms. Cyclists will tackle two exciting routes in these areas, battling for the top positions in both Tippa (Gaali Ensoga) and Mountain Sport Bikes categories.
Bulamogi Chiefdom Route : The race will start at Namukooge Trading Centre, passing through Lumbuye, Bulumba, Bumaana, Nankoola, and Kaliro Town Council, before looping back to the finish line at Namukooge Trading Centre. The route offers a blend of terrain, with both flat stretches and challenging uphill sections.
Luuka Chiefdom Route : The second route will start from Bulanga Trading Centre and take cyclists along Mawundo Road, Butte Road, Waibuga, Bukanga, Bumaana, Kigaya, and Busiro, before returning to the finish at Bulanga Trading Centre. This course will challenge cyclists with its variety of surfaces and sharp turns.
Jojo confirmed that all participants are required to bring their own bicycles to compete, as no bikes will be provided at the event. He also emphasized that the races will begin promptly at 8:00 AM, and urged cyclists to arrive early to ensure they are ready for the start.
Sunday, January 19, 2025: Bukooli and Bunhole Bunanhumba Chiefdoms
On Sunday, January 19, the races will move to the Bukooli and Bunhole Bunanhumba Chiefdoms, with the same start time of 8:00 AM. Cyclists will face new routes in these areas, designed to challenge their endurance and skill.
Bukooli Chiefdom Route: The race will begin at Nankoma Trading Centre, passing through Buwunga, Busowa, Bugiri, and Muterere, before looping back to Nankoma Trading Centre. This route promises to test the riders’ stamina over a combination of road types and elevations.
Bunhole Bunanhumba Route: Starting from Bugadde, the race will take participants through Bukoba, Bumwena, and Kaloba Roundabout, before returning to Bugadde. The course features a series of twists and turns, demanding fast-paced and strategic racing.
As with the previous day, the top two finishers in each category will qualify for the Kingdom-level grand finale, where the championship’s best cyclists will be crowned.
A Call to Spectators
Jojo also took the opportunity to call on the people of Busoga to come out in large numbers to watch the races and cheer on the participants. He encouraged spectators to enjoy the event, which promises to be an exciting display of cycling talent and determination.
However, he also urged the public to maintain a safe distance from the race lanes for their own safety. “While we want everyone to enjoy the spectacle, we must remind people to stay well away from the bike lanes. This is crucial for the safety of both the cyclists and the spectators,” Jojo cautioned.
A Thrilling Championship Ahead
The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024 promises to be an unforgettable event for both participants and fans. With the top two finishers in each category qualifying for the grand finale, the competition is set to be fierce and thrilling.
For those looking to participate, remember to bring your own bike and be ready for the race to start promptly at 8:00 AM. For those planning to watch, come out and enjoy the high-speed action while staying safe.
The preliminary races kick off this weekend, and the entire Busoga region is excited to see who will emerge victorious and secure a place in the grand finale later this year.
