Merhawi Kudus successfully fit into the big shoes of Henok Mulubrhan by extending Eritrean’s dominance in the elite men 163.8km CAC Road Cycling African Championships that came to an end today in Kwale County.
Henok, who won a hatrick from 2022, 2023 and 2024 filed to show up in Diani and he was well represented when Kudus retain the national pride with victory at 3:53:06 follwed by compatriot Awet Aman at 3:53:07 and Algeria’s Abdellah Mimouni completed the podium in 3:54:12.
As a professional rider, Kudus spoke with heartfelt pride about finally capturing a title he has long coveted.
“I have been a professional for more than 10 years, so having this victory in my CV is more than I can imagine,” Kudus said.
He attributed part of their success to the intense preparation undertaken ahead of the continental showdown.
He reserved glowing praise for his support crew, who played a crucial role in sustaining Eritrea’s charge to gold.
“Our staff really supported us, handing us water and ice on the route to be as fresh as possible.”
Aman doubled his own glory, clinching the U-23 title after completing the 163.8km race in 3:53:07, delivering Eritrea’s fourth gold medal of the championships.
Mimouni (3:54:12) settled for second, with Rwanda’s Samuel Niyonkuru clocking 3:54:25 to take bronze.