Rising from Ashes 2013

As professional cyclist Jacques “Jock” Boyer (Jacques) arrives in Rwanda in 2006, he is confronted with the stark reality of a nation still grappling with the scars of the 1994 genocide. Among the survivors, many of whom are orphaned children, a passionate group forms a cycling team, aiming not just for athletic achievement but also for healing and a newfound sense of purpose. Boyer’s engagement with this nascent organization sets off a transformative journey that profoundly impacts both him and the young riders.

Initially, “Team Rwanda” emerges as a modest initiative dedicated solely to cycling excellence. Yet, as the program evolves, it becomes apparent that the athletes’ challenges stretch far beyond the sport itself. Many members face significant literacy barriers, malnutrition, and the lingering psychological wounds of their traumatic pasts. In light of these pressing issues, the organization transforms into a symbol of hope for the Rwandan people, with its riders becoming ambassadors for national recovery.

Over the years, “Team Rwanda” broadens its mission, adopting a comprehensive approach that emphasizes not only athletic development but also the holistic well-being of its members. This evolution reaches a remarkable pinnacle in 2012, when one of the team’s cyclists earns a coveted spot at the Summer Olympics. This milestone serves as a launchpad for the formation of an all-African team, aspiring to compete at the highest echelons of the sport, including the prestigious Tour de France. Through their inspiring journey, Boyer and his teammates rise from the ruins of their tumultuous history, carving out a future defined by resilience, determination, and ultimately, triumph.