McQuaid on African cycling

From Africa, UCI president Pat McQuaid commented on the continental championships happening this weekend. "My first impression of these African championships is that there is a very good atmosphere here, and the organization is impeccable. We knew that it would be so here in Mauritius." McQuaid was slated to speak about the UCI's involvement and support of African Cycling.

McQuaid said he was pleased to see that cycling was becoming more organized in Africa, but he acknowledged that monetary and transportation resources would limit the sport's growth on the continent. Noting that many countries have a long way to go to get to the top level in cycling, he pointed to a positive example. "South-African cycling is strong, and the other countries will arrive at its level."

McQuaid said that UCI points earned at races like the Continental championships would give athletes from these countries a better chance at entering prestigious races. "[At the African continental championships], we give points qualifiers for the world championships and the Olympic Games."

McQuaid had plans to vacation Africa after wrapping up his first full year in his job as UCI President.