Riding for the Kigulu chiefdom, Odoto triumphed over 21 other competitors from the 11 chiefdoms of Busoga. Completing the 175 km race in just four hours, he was awarded a brand-new motorcycle for his efforts.
![]()
John Odoto finishes first in MTN Busoga Masaza cycling race.
John Odoto has once again claimed victory in the MTN Busoga Masaza cycling race in the mountain bike category, successfully defending his title for the second consecutive year. Riding for the Kigulu chiefdom, Odoto triumphed over 21 other competitors from the 11 chiefdoms of Busoga. Completing the 175 km race in just four hours, he was awarded a brand-new motorcycle for his efforts.
Odoto secured his win by a narrow margin, beating his closest rival, Mensuramu Magemeso of Luuka chiefdom, by just five seconds. Reflecting on this year's race theme, which focused on teaming up with the Kyabazinga to combat teenage pregnancies, Odoto emphasized that the sport serves as a reminder for men to prioritize protecting young girls, rather than exploiting them for early sex.
He highlighted that sporting activities should serve as a wake-up call for men to focus their energy on productive ventures that contribute to the economic empowerment of their families, thus reducing unwanted sexual activity, which often stems from poverty.
Odoto also stressed that the energy and determination invested in sports should not be seen as a display of dominance over weaker groups, but as a platform to promote the rights of vulnerable groups, such as girls, who are often subjected to human rights violations.
These violations expose them to teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.
MTN's sponsorship and events manager, John Okello, echoed Odoto's sentiments, noting that the race has become an advocacy platform for the community to champion positive causes, particularly in protecting girls from premature sexual exploitation.
Okello added that the cycling race has created a significant opportunity for mass mobilization, uniting communities for long-lasting transformation in the fight against teenage pregnancies.
Busoga Kingdom's sports minister, Amin Bbosa, shared that this year's race also included 22 riders in the Tippa race category, with Tiffu Luganda emerging as the winner.
Bbosa highlighted that the event attracted many young, determined individuals who are eager to champion positive change in their communities.
