Rubavu District hosted the third edition of the Ironman 70.3 Rwanda Triathlon on Sunday, August 4th. Finally, Raoul Metcalfe from the United Kingdom won the men’s race with a time of 4:35:07, while Berber Kramer from the Netherlands crossed the finish line first in the women’s race with a time of 5:00:56.
Athletes raced through the scenic Rubavu District, enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Kivu while being cheered on by residents and traveling fans. A total of 200 athletes participated: 28 from Rwanda and 172 from 27 other countries.
They embarked on the 70.3-mile triathlon, beginning with a 1.9-kilometer swim course in Lake Kivu, followed by a 90-kilometer bike race, and finishing with a 21.1-kilometer run.
Raoul Metcalfe from the United Kingdom won the men’s race with a time of 4:35:07, while Berber Kramer from the Netherlands crossed the finish line first in the women’s race with a time of 5:00:56, defending her title for three years in a row.
Emmanuel Mutabazi from Team One was the first to cross the finish line in the relay team category, with a race time of 4:07:25.
The race was officiated by government officials, including Minister of Sports Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju, Rwanda Development Board Chief Executive Officer Francis Gatare, Western Province Governor Lambert Dushimimana, and Rubavu District Mayor Prosper Mulindwa.
“It’s been a remarkable day in the scenic lakeside town of Rubavu District, with athletes from 27 countries competing in the demanding yet exhilarating third edition. Congratulations to the Rwandan athletes who proudly represented our nation in this event,” remarked Hon. Francis Gatare, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Development Board.
“The IRONMAN 70.3 Rwanda has evolved into a vibrant celebration of sport and tourism. This year, we have seen a significant increase in participation, with athletes bringing their families to explore Rubavu. This growth highlights Rwanda’s appeal as a premier destination and a beacon of opportunity in the global sporting community,” said Bonita Mutoni, CEO of Global Events Africa.
“We are thrilled to see the growth of the IRONMAN 70.3 Rwanda and the enthusiastic participation from both Rwandan and international athletes. This event not only highlights the natural beauty of Rubavu District but also showcases Rwanda’s capacity to host world-class sporting events,” said Hon. Lambert Dushimimana, Governor of the Western Province.
The IRONMAN 70.3 Rwanda 2024 is organized by Global Events Africa and sponsored by Visit Rwanda, Inyange Water, Purifaaya, CanalBox Rwanda, Kabisa Go Electric, Gibson London Dry Gin, Jibu Water, Pedro’s Coffee, RMist Rwanda Safaris, and supported by the Government of Rwanda.
