• Becking, from the Netherlands, won the gruelling 120km elite race in a record time of 3:12:59.
• “We are thrilled by the passion for gravel cycling demonstrated by the participants from different nationalities,” said Loop Digital Financial Services CEO Erick Muriuki.
Image: HANDOUT
Hans Becking and Duncan Ruto emerged victorious in the 120km and 60km cycling categories during the third leg of the Loop Safari Series held on Saturday at Hell’s Gate National Park.
The event attracted 467 elite and recreational cyclists from across Africa, Europe, and the USA, who navigated the challenging terrain and breathtaking landscapes.
Becking, from the Netherlands, won the gruelling 120km elite race in a record time of 3:12:59.
Germany’s Lukas Baum followed with 3:17:02 as the USA’s Chad Haga completed the podium in 3:38:54.
The United Kingdom’s Mardy Nutt clinched the top spot in the women’s category followed by Rwanda’s Xaverime Nirere and the USA’s Amity Rockwell.
“Winning was something I didn’t expect,” said Nutt of the UK.
“I spent the last week practicing in Rwanda to acclimatise to the altitudes. The course was difficult and more technical than last year, but I’m happy to have won. My next race is the Migration Gravel Race. I’m staying in Kenya for another week, and I’m aiming for a strong finish despite the tough competition.”
Nutt added: “Today was a bit hot and I suffered a bad cramp with about 12km to go, but I managed to finish with enough of a gap. I love the locals' support; it’s a stark contrast to the reception I get back home. Seeing wildlife, like zebras running across the course, was truly special.”
Her advice to aspiring cyclists: “Just enjoy the race. Keep the fun. I ride for personal enjoyment, and it has brought me to a good place in racing. Hard work pays off, and people should enjoy riding as it takes you to incredible places.”
Ruto demonstrated remarkable tenacity and talent to win the 60km race in 2:23:01 followed by Swarbi Greg (2:25:00) and Geoffrey Kariuki (2:25:02).
The event also featured a 20km race for recreational cyclists and juniors. The winners in the elite 120km were awarded Sh20,000, while the top three teams received Sh125,000, Sh100,000 and Sh70,000.
“We are thrilled by the passion for gravel cycling demonstrated by the participants from different nationalities,” said Loop Digital Financial Services CEO Erick Muriuki.
“We remain committed to supporting endeavors that promote athletics and showcase the incredible landscapes of our country. Our goal is to provide a platform for cyclists from Kenya and East Africa to develop and compete globally.”
The participants also contributed to environmental conservation efforts by planting over 250 trees.
“Through tree planting, we hope to mitigate climate change and enhance biodiversity for future generations,” added Muriuki.
The series moves to the grand finale in Vipingo Ridge, Kilifi, on August 25.
Organised by Loop Digital and Team Amani, the event aims to promote cycling as a healthy lifestyle sport and position Kenya as a premier gravel cycling destination.
The race is earmarked as a Gravel World Series and International Cycling Foundation event, allowing participants to earn points towards qualifying for the Gravel World Series.