Jonathan Boyer behind the success of Rwandan cycling
Since 2007, coach and manager of the national team of Rwanda, Jonathan Boyer, has always played a major role in the growing success of Rwandan cycling. He helped his team in every possible way in all the races.
Rwandan cycling has developed tremendously, especially when the national tour gained a UCI ranking in 2009.
Rwanda Akagera’s cyclist, Joseph Biziyaremye, was the first Rwandan rider, who won a stage at his home tour.
Joseph Biziyaremye showed a superb performance and set the fastest time of 3 hours, 33 minutes and 53 seconds, ahead of Kiel Reijnen (Team Type 1 – Sanofi) and the race leader, Joseph Rosskopf (Type 1).
The 56-year-old ex-professional cyclist, Boyer, told the media, "There was talent here and people who could really benefit from being given a chance, especially Adrien. The bike is a way of mediation for some. I know that Adrien rides his bike because it
definitely helps his past bad memories. The bike has been a vehicle of healing for many of the riders".
Boyer further added that he has made plans for supporting Adrien Niyonshuti in his endeavours to give a stunning performance at the Olympics.
Boyer also mentioned that he was contemplating about exploring the opportunity of creating a UCI continental team.
In his racing career, he was the first American cyclist who participated in the Tour de France 1981. He grabbed the overall 32nd position.
In 1980, he won the Coors Classic race in USA and also grabbed the first place in the 1985 Race Across America, where he completed 3,120 miles in 9 days, 2 hours and 6 minutes. In his career he won 87 amateur and 49 professional victories.
He took part in Tour de France five times and snatched the 12th place in 1983. He further added, "I just wanted to race, I just wanted to ride the Tour. It was an amazing race and it hasn't been until later that it really sunk in being a pioneer".
No doubt, Boyer’s contribution to Rwanda’s cycling is beyond just commendable. Not only did he bring Rwanda onto the international cycling horizon, he demonstrated exceptional capabilities to excel as well.
He has taken up a mentor’s role and is an inspiration to many Rwandan riders. Many riders are hopeful to benefit under his guidance and supervision.
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