The Lions de Fer were crowned the champions of the 29th Rugby GMT in a tournament played over the weekend at Red Cross Stadium in Kacyiru.
The champions outsmarted the Hills by 17-7 to lift the trophy in the annual tournament organized in tribute to the 29th commemoration of Genocide against the Tutsi.
Both sides reached the finals after qualifying from group stages.
In their opening game, the Lions de Fer thrashed Burera Tigers by 43-00 then went on to lead the group after clashing arch rivals Kigali Sharks by 26-05.
1000 Hills who played more games beat Muhanga Thunders (10-07), and then Hummed Rubavu Black Eagles and UR Grizzlies by 45-00 and 57-00 respectively.
In the women’s category, Ruhango Zebras made light work of University of Rwanda Department of Education UR-Rukara, by 42-00 to lift the trophy.
Ruhango Zebras ladies lifted the women trophy for the first time
Thirteen clubs participated in this tournament, including 7 men’s and 6 women’s rugby teams.
Speaking after the tournament, Rwanda Rugby Federation Secretary General, Felix Uwitonze thanked the winners saying that the annual tournament means a lot in Rwandan history, since it is meant to honor those killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Further he pointed that it is everyone’s responsibility, especially sportsmen to commemorate.
“The fact that the teams participated at a high level, shows that the culture of Simplicity and the strengthening of Sports Values are being understood, thus moving away from what will once again call Rwanda in the bad history we have gone through.” He said.
“While preparing these games, we invited teams from outside the country, as has been the case in the past years, but this time it was not possible for them to take part, hopefully they will come next year”. He noted.
The acting Director of the Rwanda Olympic Committee, Alice Umulinga who was also the chief guest said “On behalf of the Rwanda Olympic Committee, I thank the Rugby federation for organizing this successful competition.”
She thanked the winners both in the men’s and women’s category.
“As players, I ask you to continue to strengthen the values that characterize the pros, because a player who has these values will never engage in evil activities including committing Genocide.” She explained adding, “let’s continue to remember and rebuild, as we strive to continue doing things that develop our country and the people.”
