Cycling enthusiasts witnessed thrilling action in the ongoing MTN Busoga Masaza Cycling Championship qualifiers, as cyclists from Bukono and Bugabula Chiefdoms showcased their determination to secure spots in the highly anticipated grand finale next month.
Bugabula Chiefdom: A Tight Race with Lessons to Learn
Bugabula’s qualifiers delivered gripping moments, with cyclists battling it out across an 80km course that tested their endurance and strategy. In the Mountain Sports Bike category, Wyclife Bamutazze emerged as the standout performer, pulling off a stunning late escape four kilometers before the finish to secure first place and a cash prize of UGX 100,000. Bamutazze’s victory came after a calculated race strategy and strong mechanical preparation for his bike.
“I came into this race with a new game plan of not allowing any opponent to ride above my speed. The most important factor was my bike, which was in excellent mechanical condition. I disregarded the local favorite and focused on my strategy. Now that I’ve won today, nothing will stop me from winning the top prize next month,” Bamutazze said confidently.
Joining him in the finals is Rogers Byansi, who also put in a strong performance in the Mountain Sports Bike category. In the Tippa (local bike) category, Joseph Ssebowa and Yassin Mugula secured their places in the grand finale after impressive rides.
Eastern Cycling Club coach Fahad Ndalandala, speaking at the closing ceremony held at KBS premises in Kamuli town, had words of encouragement and caution for Bugabula’s representatives.
“We know you completed the 80km race in three hours today, but you must maintain fitness and work on your speed before February 15. Given the relatively flat topography of today’s course, your speeds were relatively low. If you’re aiming for a top-five finish in next month’s finals, this needs to improve,” he advised.
The race route took the cyclists through Kamuli town, Nawangaiza, Namayira, Nankulyaaku, Bulopa, Busota, Kisozi, Nawanyago, Nawantumbi, Kasambira, Butabaala, Busota, and Budhabangula, before returning to Kamuli town for the finish. Local favorite Dauda Munoli fell short of expectations as the top three cyclists raced toe-to-toe from start to finish, leaving him out of contention.
Bukono Chiefdom: Emerging Talent Shines Bright
Meanwhile, Bukono Chiefdom hosted its preliminary race on Sunday, with cyclists delivering impressive performances across a grueling 75km course. The race, flagged off by Busoga Kingdom’s Sports Minister Owek. Amin Bbosa at Ivukula Police Post, passed through scenic yet challenging terrains, including Kimenyulo, Mpande, Kamudoke, Lwatama, Idudi, Nakazinga Church, Kibaale-Namakoko, and Kibaale sub-county, before culminating back at Ivukula sub-county.
In the Tippa category, Kuluseni Latif and Rambo Yusuf claimed the top two spots with stellar performances, earning their tickets to the finals. Similarly, in the Mountain Sports Bike category, Waiswa Isiko and Munyangala Furasiko demonstrated remarkable skill and endurance to secure their places in the championship finale.
The Road Ahead
The preliminary rounds have so far been completed in six chiefdoms: Bulamogi, Luuka, Bukhooli, Bunhole-Bunhanhumba, Bukono, and Bugabula. The action resumes this Friday, January 31, in Bunha and Busiki, followed by Saturday’s races in Bugweri and Kigulu, and Sunday’s showdown in Butembe.
Cyclists from Bugabula and Bukono now look ahead to the grand finale, determined to refine their strategies and improve their performance. With the promise of glory and prizes awaiting the top five cyclists in each category, the stage is set for an electrifying conclusion to the 2nd edition of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cycling Championship.
