Burkina Faso / Cycling: Abdoul Latif Pasgo retains his title, Salamata Zagré wins
The third edition of the National Youth Sports Games continued this Wednesday, September 3, 2025, in Bobo-Dioulasso, with the cycling time trial held on a closed circuit along the city’s main boulevard.
In the girls’ event, 40 competitors from the Sports Training Schools (EFORS) and several partner centers took part. Starting in groups of six, they raced against the clock over a distance of 3.3 km. Some pushed themselves to the point of exhaustion, requiring medical assistance. At the finish line, it was Salamata Zagré, member of AS Bessel and representative of the Central Region, who came out on top with a time of 5 minutes 5 seconds, averaging 38.950 km/h. She finished ahead of Oura Fadilatou (Guiriko) and Latifa Sawadogo (RCK), who took second and third place respectively.
In the boys’ category, 45 riders lined up over the same distance. The reigning champion, Abdoul Latif Pasgo of the EFORS in Nankanbé, confirmed his supremacy. Starting cautiously, he drew on his experience and knowledge of the course to outpace his rivals. He completed the race in 4 minutes 49 seconds, with an average speed of 41.10 km/h. Fabrice Yaméogo (Nando) and Madou Hema (Makafa) completed the podium.
The winner explained his performance by pointing to the quality of his training and his self-confidence: “I knew I could win. As soon as I got on my bike, I gave it everything I had”. However, he also called for better equipment to raise Burkinabe cycling to a higher level.
His message was echoed by the National Technical Director (DTN) of cycling, Martin Sawadogo. According to him, the potential is definitely there, but investment in youth development is essential: “Without the grassroots, we cannot hope for high-level sport”.
Satisfied with the performances recorded, he praised the progress made by the young athletes. The competition continues this Thursday, September 4, with a team time trial, another stage in an event that is increasingly confirming its role as a showcase for the future of Burkinabe sport.
