Asmara, 16 December 2009 – Eritrean cyclists scored top 10 ranks in the first phase of “Tour Eritrea 2009” cycling race in which foreign national teams took part. The 4-hour first phase covered 146 kilometers from Keren to Mendefera.
Eritrean cyclist Daniel Teklehaimanot stood first by finishing the race in 4:13:14, followed by Bereket Yemane, Melake Kahsai, Amanuel Kibreab, Meron Russom, Amanuel Haile, Aklilu Haile, Natnael Yemane, Jani Tewolde  and Frekalsi Debesai, from 2nd to 10th respectively. Kenyan cyclists Suleiman Kagangi and Agorir Paul also stood 11th and 12th respectively, while Egyptian cyclist Sherif Abdela, who stood 5th in Tour Egypt, finished 14th in the  current race here in Eritrea. 

Also in the uphill and chronometer race, cyclist Daniel stood first.

The Administrator of Keren town, Mr. Tekie Keleta, inaugurated the International “Tour Eritrea 2009” cycling race that began in Keren which marks a turning point in the nation’s history of cycling.

The ongoing race in which national teams from Eritrea, Sudan, Egypt, Libya, Kenya, Saudi Arabia and Morocco are participating would cover Anseba, Southern, Northern Red Sea and Central regions.

Reports indicated that the second phase due to take place tomorrow would cover the longest distance of 161 kilometers from Mendefera to Adi-Quala, and subsequently to Asmara and Dekemhare.
The 717 km-long “Tour Eritrea 2009” cycling race would continue until December 20.