Ghana’s cycling team crowned “Espirit Sportif” Team at Boucle Du Coton

Ghana’s national cycling team were crowned “Espirit Sportif” at the 7th edition of the ‘Boucle du Coton’ tournament held from 16-22 May, 2011 in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

The trophy was presented to the team for exhibiting best team spirit and sportsmanship during the tournament that drew participation from 64 cyclists from seven countries including hosts Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Gabon, Mali, France, Ghana and Togo.

A statement from the Ghana Cycling Association copied to GNA Sports said the team also scooped the ‘General des Assurance’ Fair Play trophy.

The French team nicknamed “Orleans’ picked up the best team prize after eight stages at the tournament that covered a total of 738 kilometres.

Burkinabe’s Ilboubo Haruna claimed the ultimate Yellow Jersey whilst compatriot Ouedraogo Rasmane picked the Green Jersey for amassing the maximum points.

Ghana was represented by six cyclists made up of Emmanuel Taylor of River Park Club (team captain), Emmanuel Obour – City Migro, Kenneth Ameyaw – River Park (Sunyani), Joseph Kudakpor – Die Hard Club . The rest are John Zormelo – Young Stars Club and Benjamin Logo Adom of River Park Cycling Club (Sunyani).

Meanwhile Ghana’s John Zormelo placed sixth during the “Tour of Impossible” also held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso from 28-29 May, 2011.

Hosts Burkina Faso who presented three teams secured the first five slots in the 24-hour ride tournament which covered 504 kilometres.

Sixteen (16) riders took part in the tour with two representing each country; Ghana, Togo, Mali, Benin, Cote D’Ivoire, whilst hosts Burkina Faso presented three teams.

This was the first time Ghana had participated in the annual tournament.

Source: GNA