“We did not win but we are very happy because as Timorese we showed foreigners we can also ride,” said cyclist Jacinto da Costa, last week (16/09), upon arriving at the finishing line in front of the Presidential Palace Nicolau Lobato, in Lanud, Dili.
He added Timor despite being a young nation must show to the world it is also capable of taking part in international sporting events.
“I urge all Timorese to be united and to keep the peace in the country,” said ridder da Costa.
President Dr Jose Ramos Horta on his part said the Tour de Timor served another purpose and that is to promote healthy living. “Riding a bicycle is good for your health. Our city already has too many cars and people need to exercise otherwise people will have health problems.”
According to President Horta, the Tour de Timor and also the Dili Maratona were two events that inspired Timorese to live healthier lifestyles and to exercise.
David Dias Goncalves, a minor ridder to take part also in the sporting event urged other youths to get involved in any sporting activity and develop their sporting talents.
