By Musa Kikuuno
The highly anticipated 2nd Edition of the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship is finally here! Set to take place this weekend, the grand finale promises to be a thrilling spectacle as cyclists from all corners prepare to compete in what is expected to be a fierce contest of endurance, skill, and determination. The race will kick off on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 8:00 AM, from the iconic Busoga Kingdom Headquarters, marking the beginning of an exciting 175 km challenge.
This year, the route will see competitors navigate through some of Busoga’s most picturesque and challenging terrains. Starting from the heart of the kingdom, cyclists will ride through several key towns and landmarks including Bugembe, Kakira, Magamaga, and Musita, before making their way to Iganga Town. From there, riders will return to the finish line at the Busoga Kingdom Headquarters after a grueling race that promises to test their mettle and physical limits.
Unlike the 2022 edition, which featured a longer 188 km race, the 2024 race has been shortened to 175 km, but the stakes remain as high as ever. With a total of 44 riders competing – divided into two categories, the Tippa-Gaali Ensoga and the Mountain Sport Bikes – it is bound to be an exciting showdown. Each category will feature 22 riders, and all eyes will be on them as they make their way through the scenic but challenging route.
As the race progresses, the tension will build toward the moment of truth – the finish line. The top five finishers in each category will walk away with incredible prizes. The grand prize for the winners is a brand-new motorcycle, a testament to the championship’s commitment to recognizing the true champions of the sport. Second-place winners will receive a cash prize of 2 million Ugandan shillings, while third-place finishers will pocket 1 million shillings. The fourth-place winners will take home 500,000 shillings, with the fifth-place finishers getting 300,000 shillings.
But that’s not all! The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship truly embraces the spirit of sportsmanship and rewards every participant for their efforts. For those finishing outside the top five, the race organizers will ensure they don’t go home empty-handed. Every rider who crosses the finish line will be awarded 50,000 Ugandan shillings as a token of appreciation for their hard work and determination.
The excitement surrounding the event is palpable, and it promises to be an unforgettable day for cycling enthusiasts, the athletes, and the entire community. As Busoga gears up to witness some of the finest cyclists in the country, the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024 is shaping up to be a true celebration of talent, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
