Eritrean national cycling team gets rapturous reception after Africa triumph

Eritrea’s national cycling team received a rapturous reception after emerging top in both the men's and women’s categories at the 2018 Africa Championship in Rwanda, reported Africa News.

 State reception

The team were awarded with an official reception conducted at the State House in Asmara, where president Isaias Afwerki congratulated the team for their achievement. Additionally, each rider received a $1,000 bonus.

The Eritrean national cycling team collected 20 medals including 10 golds, 5 silvers and 5 bronzes at the 2018 African Cycling Championship, conducted from 14 to 18 February in Kigali, Rwanda. Ethiopia, Rwanda and Algeria completed the top four on the table, with thirteen, ten and two medals respectively.

Warm welcome

The streets of Asmara were flooded with citizens welcoming the victorious riders, who were seated on car doors enjoying the cheers while displaying their medals and trophies. At the official reception, President Afwerki congratulated the cyclists and their coaches, and mentioned that there is a huge potential for sports in the Northeast African country.

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According to the Information Minister Yemane Meskel, a concert was held for the team at the Bahti Maskerem Square, Eritrea’s main square.