The 20th edition of the Benin Cycling Tour continued on Tuesday with the second stage between Parakou and Savè. Moroccan rider Sabbahi El Houcaine was the first to cross the finish line.
Sabbahi El Houcaine claimed victory in the Parakou-Savè stage, greeted by enthusiastic cheers from cycling fans, as the sport continues to gain popularity in the country.
El Houcaine finished ahead of South Africa’s Jense Van Rensburg, who came in second, and the Netherlands’ Wijfje Tom, who secured third place.
In the overall standings, Jense Van Rensburg—winner of the first stage—retains the yellow jersey. The race will resume on Wednesday with the third stage, covering the Covè-Banamé to Zagnanado route.
This 20th edition features 250 riders representing 14 teams, including 11 from Africa. Notable innovations this year include the paracycling race, a women’s Grand Prix, and the inclusion of the Cotonou Grand Prix on the UCI calendar.
