Nekesa, Mirengu defy setback to claim tandem title at Kaptagat Cycling Challenge

To many spectators at the Kaptagat Cycling Challenge, a tandem bicycle is a fascinating sight, a single bike carrying two riders moving in perfect rhythm. But behind every victory is a partnership built on trust, communication and absolute synchronization.

That was the winning formula for Ann Nekesa and her pilot Alice Mirengu, who stormed to victory in the women’s tandem category during the fourth edition of the Kaptagat Cycling Challenge in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The pair overcame mechanical setbacks, including a broken chain moments before the race began, to produce one of the event’s most inspiring performances.

For visually impaired cyclists, tandem racing requires two athletes working as one. The rider in front, known as the pilot, steers, brakes, changes gears and guides the bike, while the rider at the back, known as the stoker, provides power by pedalling in complete harmony with the pilot.

The two share a specially designed tandem bicycle, where both sets of pedals are linked by a chain, ensuring they generate power together.

Mirengu said she had confidence in their preparation despite the setback at the start line.

“I knew we had trained for it. And I believed that I can recover my time if I put in what I trained for. I was so happy that we finished first,” she stated.

Meanwhile, Nekesa, who lost her eyesight at the age of 14 due to a genetic condition, said cycling has become much more than a sport.

“Tandem is like a couple. You need to trust each other. So this bike united me with Alice and we built that trust. She is like a mother to me right now,” Nekesa said.

Despite starting nearly ten minutes behind after repairing their bike, the duo refused to give up.

“Giving up is not an option. So winning and then coming as number one after ten minutes late, it was a great impact to us,” Nekesa said.

The pair also praised the Kaptagat course, saying the forest itself became part of their motivation as the trees provided themuch needed cool air and breeze during the ride.

Race Director Ciarán Fitzpatrick said stories like Nekesa and Mirengu’s embody what makes the Kaptagat Cycling Challenge unique.

“What makes the Kaptagat Cycling Challenge unique is not just its breathtaking high-altitude course. It is the purpose behind every pedal stroke. Every kilometre covered helps restore Kaptagat Forest, and every rider becomes part of a lasting conservation legacy,” Fitzpatrick said.

National Treasury Principal Secretary and Patron of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, said the event continues to demonstrate that sport can unite people while protecting nature.

“The Kaptagat Cycling Challenge is far more than a race. It is a celebration of purpose where sport, forest restoration and community livelihoods come together in one extraordinary experience,” Kiptoo said.