The 31st edition of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope saw new champions crowned on February 21, 2026, in Buea. Ahmadou Bi Ibrahim, in the men's category, and Mary Grace Wirba, in the women's category, dominated the competition, scaling the slopes of Mount Cameroon to etch their names in the history of this prestigious event.
Ahmadou Bi Ibrahim, 25, delivered a remarkable performance, completing the race in a record time of 4 hours, 24 minutes, and 42 seconds. This time is faster than that of Usheni Hassan, the dethroned winner of the 2025 edition, who had recorded 4 hours, 40 minutes, and 09 seconds. "I am happy. The race was interesting. I didn't experience any difficulty. I climbed to the top without any problems," said a visibly delighted Ahmadou Bi Ibrahim after his victory.
The champion emphasized the importance of his preparation and the support of his coach in his success. "I prepared for this race very seriously. I worked hard, and I am the winner today. Thank you to my coach. He set up a good work program for me," he said. Although he finished only 7th the previous year, Ibrahim was able to draw on his resources to secure victory this year.
Mary Grace Wirba, a 29-year-old teacher, won the women's race with a time of 5 hours, 22 minutes, and 11 seconds. She succeeds Lizette Ngalim, champion of the 2024 edition, who had a time of 5 hours, 24 minutes, and 41 seconds. "I am happy to have won this victory. It's like a dream. I can't believe this is the reality I am living. I didn't think I could achieve this performance. I feel very happy, and I thank God," she said after the race.
Before dedicating herself to her studies, Mary Grace Wirba had already proven herself in the Race of Hope, winning the junior competition once and finishing second and third in other attempts. After a seven-year break to obtain a degree in economics, she successfully resumed competition.
The Mount Cameroon Race of Hope continues to be a major event on the Cameroonian sporting calendar, attracting athletes from all over the country and showcasing the beauty and challenge of climbing this iconic mountain. The performances of Ahmadou Bi Ibrahim and Mary Grace Wirba testify to the determination and talent of Cameroonian athletes. These victories mark a new chapter in the history of this legendary race.
