Ouagadougou: Daouda Soulama of the Koudougou Young Cyclists Association (AJCK) was crowned Burkina Faso champion on Sunday on Thomas Sankara Avenue, succeeding Paul Daumont, AIB noted. The AJCK rider completed the 170.560 km solo in 4h04mn22seconds, achieving an average speed of 41.878 km/h.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the race commenced from Kokoloko at the western exit of Ouagadougou, with 84 riders from 25 clubs participating. The cyclists made their way along the bypass to the northern exit before returning to Ouagadougou. At the entrance to the capital, 11 riders broke away from the peloton, including four from AJCK, and established a 25-second lead.
As the escapees approached Avenue Thomas, Abdoul Wahab Bouda from AJCK attempted a solo breakaway, securing two bonuses before being caught with two laps remaining. Seizing the opportunity, Daouda Soulama made his move, supported by teammates Saturnin Yam©ogo and Wahab Bouda, who tactically impeded other competitors. Soulama established a 30-second gap and crossed the finish line alone.
Expressing his gratitude, Soulama stated, "Thank God. I couldn't believe it. My teammates worked hard behind the scenes to help me win this victory, and I thank them." He attributed his strategy to his coach's advice to attempt a solo breakaway two laps from the finish.
Soulama succeeded Paul Daumont, last year's winner, who was absent this time. Along with the champion's jersey, Soulama received the trophy, a gold medal, and a sum of 100,000 FCFA. His teammate Saturnin Yam©ogo secured the silver medal and 75,000 FCFA, while Souleymane Kon© from AS Bessel finished third. Kanha from Makafa de Banfora narrowly missed the podium.
The championships also recognized winners in lower categories, with Latif Pasgo of Tenkodogo crowned at the under-17 level, Mahamadi Ouangrawa of RCK at the junior level, and Soumala Ilboudou at the under-23 level.
Rasman© Sawadogo, the technical advisor and representative of the Minister in charge of sports, chaired the championships. He praised the organizers for their efforts and assured continued support for sports to enable athletes to represent the country's colors. Ignace B©r©woudougou, president of the Burkinabe Cycling Federation, commended the well-organized activities and urged partners to increase competitions to maintain the cyclists' performance until the next Tour du Faso.