By Emmanuel Jim
The streets of Lunsar were filled with more than just the sound of whirring chains and cheering crowds this week. They were filled with the sound of history being made. Celebrating its 12th anniversary, the Lunsar Cycling Festival has officially grown from a local bike race into a national symbol of hope. This year, the festival took a major step toward inclusion by introducing the first-ever Para-cycling categories for both men and women.
The star of the show was undoubtedly Mohamed Junior Kamara a household name in Lunsar know as JB Law, the historic winner of the first Male Para-cycling race. Remarkably, Junior had only four days of training on his new hand-cycle before the big day. At the finish line, Junior said that being disabled does not mean being unable, and he expressed his desire to show the world that everyone can succeed if given a platform. His victory was more than just a trophy; it sent a loud message to the entire country that limits disappear with the right equipment and a bit of heart.
CEO and Founder Abdul Karim Kamara explained that after 11 years of focusing on youth, it was time to open the doors wider. He stated that it was essential to offer those same opportunities to the disabled community. To make the event even more exciting, he moved the race format to a circuit within the town. This kept the high speed action right in Lunsar so every resident could feel the energy of the riders.
In the Elite Men’s category, a familiar face finally claimed the top spot. Ibrahim A. Turay, who has competed in the Tour De Lunsar for four years, crossed the line to thunderous applause. Turay credited his win to years of hard work and the powerful energy of his local fans. Meanwhile, Memunatu Kamara from Makeni won the female Para-cycling category, taking home a cash prize of NLe 1,000 and a hand-cycle and Rebecca K. Samba from Bo, winner of the Elite Female category.
Paramount Chief Bai Koblo Queen II expressed great pride in the event, declaring that the festival proves Lunsar is alive and moving forward. The Chief remarked that these riders show that ability is not defined by limitations. He praised the event for creating a history of inclusion, noting that the festival has transformed into a global platform that attracts international riders while staying true to its Sierra Leonean roots.
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