Interview Tsige Kahsay

The past Tour de l'Avenir again showcased some of the most talented U23 riders in the World. Most of them came from the Old Continent again, but Tsige Kahsay showed that there is also talent outside Europe. After dominating the cycling scene in her native Ethiopia, she also has delivred very consistent results in the Worlds' biggest U23 race between World Tour pros. As an 18 years old, she never finished lower than 28th between riders who were sometimes 5 years older than her. It's time to get to know one of Africa's next cycling stars, who wants to make her continent rise further at the world stage.

You had a very consistent Tour de l'Avenir. How did you experience this week?

The Tour d'Avenir was a really great experience for me and where I learned what my potential is. Most of the riders in the competition were WT Riders. Competing against them, performing well in the stages, and winning the most combative rider in one stage made me more optimistic about the future than I had ever dreamed of.

How did you discover cycling before?

Cycling is not what people see from the outside. I know you will go through many obstacles, but I have worked hard while in my hometown. Thank God I came to Europe with the UCI and I was even happier to be able to compete and especially to participate in the big race stage I was holding this past week.

What do you enjoy the most about the sport?

When I win something that makes me happiest in the sport and get on the podium, it makes me feel special inside and it makes me crave the podium again and again.

Many people know Ethiopia as a country of successful marathon runners. How is cycling in your country?

Yes you are right most people Ethiopia is known for long distance running. Cycling doesn't get much attention, but it is the best sport. I want to let the world know that Ethiopians can do everything not only in running but also in cycling. Because we have a good training area with long climbs and a flat with high altitude. Therefore, better results can be achieved if it is focused on the summary.

What do you find the most difficult about cycling?

I am competing in Europe for the first time and I expected some difficult things but I am getting used to everything day by day. So the biggest problem in cycling is lack of opportunities and we have visa problems. But I believe that if I am lucky, all problems will be overcome.

How do you feel about the first Worldchampionships in Africa this year?

I am very happy to organize the World Championships in Africa. Because any African competitor invited by the UCI will participate

in the big stage without any visa problems. Previously, an African competitor invited by the UCI missed the competition due to visa problems. But now that is not the problem. So now is our time Africans and I am happy about that.

What are your ambitions in the sport?

My ambition for the sport is indescribable. Because I want to make history as the first black African woman to win the Tour de France femmes. It is possible and Biniyam girmay has shown us that it is possible. I will work hard to make this happen.

What are your main interests or hobbies outside cycling?

Outside of cycling, I enjoy spending time with family. I also like to visit historical place with my family, and spend my free time outside of cycling with my family.