With just days to go before the World Gravel Championships in Nannup, Australia, Congolese cyclist Joël Kyaviro is worried that he may not be able to participate due to a lack of funds. The championships, scheduled for October 10-11, would be a historic moment for the Democratic Republic of Congo, as Kyaviro is the first Congolese cyclist to qualify for a World Gravel Championship. He secured his spot after finishing 10th in the African Championship of the discipline in Windhoek, Namibia, in August.
Kyaviro's qualification was a notable achievement, as he completed the 143-kilometer event in 4 hours and 30 minutes. However, he now faces a new challenge: securing the necessary funds to travel to Australia. In an interview on Okapi Sport, Kyaviro revealed that his team is unable to finance his trip, unlike in previous competitions. He expressed his concerns, stating that if no support is forthcoming, he will be unable to participate in the championships.
Despite having obtained his visa for Australia, Kyaviro still needs to cover several expenses, including airfare, accommodation, food, and transportation. He also wishes to be accompanied by members of his staff, including trainers and a mechanic. Kyaviro is now relying on the support of the Congolese federation and ministry to help him cover these costs. He emphasized that their assistance is crucial to his participation in the championships.
The World Gravel Championships would be a milestone for the Democratic Republic of Congo, as it would mark the country's first-ever participation in a World Gravel Championship. Kyaviro's qualification was secured after his top-10 finish in the African Championship, and he is eager to represent his country on the world stage. He has been training in Tanzania, following a series of training sessions in Namibia and Kenya.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his participation, Kyaviro is optimistic about his physical condition. He believes that his preparation has been going well, and he is confident about his chances in the championships. This season, Kyaviro has achieved several notable performances, including winning a stage in the International Tour of Cameroon in June.
Kyaviro's participation in the World Gravel Championships is not only important for him but also for the development of cycling in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The country has a rich cycling history, and Kyaviro's achievement could inspire a new generation of cyclists. He hopes that his participation will help raise the profile of cycling in the country and attract more support for the sport.
The situation remains uncertain, and Kyaviro is now waiting for a response from the Congolese authorities. He urges them to provide the necessary support to enable him to participate in the championships. If successful, Kyaviro will be a trailblazer for Congolese cycling, and his achievement will be closely followed by fans and supporters back home.
Key points
- - Joël Kyaviro is the first Congolese cyclist to qualify for a World Gravel Championship. - He secured his spot after finishing 10th in the African Championship of the discipline in Windhoek, Namibia, in August. - Kyaviro needs financial support to cover expenses, including airfare, accommodation, food, and transportation, to participate in the World Gravel Championships in Australia.
