Eritrea dominate in day III of Africa Cycling Championship

The Eritrean team secured five medals today - three gold, one silver, and one bronze -highlighting their prowess in both the junior men’s and women’s categories.

Kevin Teklemariam and Nardos Tsegay clinched gold in their respective races, with Eritrea sweeping the men’s podium after covering distances of 100.8km and 67.2km.

Teklemariam, who had already claimed victory in the time trial on the opening day, went on to capture the junior men's title.

His compatriots, Nahom Efriem - bronze medalist in the time trial - secured silver, while Eldana Bereket rounded out the all-Eritrean podium.

Reflecting on his victory, Teklemariam credited his preparation for his success.

"It wasn't easy, but my hard work paid off. Leading my country to sweep the podium makes this win even more special," he said.

Teklemariam finished the race in 2:23.38, with his sights set on representing Eritrea at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

For Kenya, Ian Kipchirchir and Billy Mangwana Mbolo placed 9th and 14th, respectively, while Stanley Ngugi Kinyanjui and Bob Waithaka were unable to finish in the 35-man race, which saw 21 cyclists cross the finish line.

In the junior women’s race, Tsegay captured gold with a time of 2:03.08, followed by Uganda’s Nantume Miria in second place, and Eritrea’s Eldana Bereket taking bronze.

Kenya’s Sherry Chepkemboi was the only local rider, finishing 13th out of 18 participants, with 15 completing the race.