The 31st edition of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope saw Hamadou Bih Ibrahim crowned champion in the senior men's category and Wirba Desty Grace in the women's category, this Saturday, February 21, 2026. The two athletes dominated a demanding competition, each winning the sum of 10 million FCFA. The Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Narcisse Mouelle Kombi, kicked off this morning's edition, launching the competitors to attack the 4,100 meters of the volcano.
The Race of Hope, an emblematic sporting event in Cameroon, attracts hundreds of athletes every year determined to defy the steep slopes of Mount Cameroon. This competition, which tests the endurance and resilience of the participants, has become a symbol of self-transcendence and national pride. It traditionally takes place in February, a period during which weather conditions are considered optimal, although the challenge remains immense due to the altitude and rugged terrain.
This year, 600 competitors, divided into different categories, took part in this edition. In the senior men's category, Hamadou Bih Ibrahim, representing the Afeum-Alah club of Awing, achieved a remarkable performance by covering the distance in 4 hours and 25 minutes. He thus beat Usheni Hassan, the winner of the 2025 edition, by 15 minutes, taking first place and marking his name in the history of this mythical race.
In the women's category, Wirba Desty Grace showed unwavering determination to win against fierce competition. She was able to master the selective course and climb the slopes of Mount Cameroon with impressive consistency. Her victory allows her to succeed Lisette Ngalim, the champion of the previous edition, and confirm her status as a high-level athlete.
In addition to the main categories, the Race of Hope also highlighted the performances of veterans and young talents. Sarah Lieungu Etonde once again shone in the women's veterans category, winning her seventh victory. She expressed her joy and motivation, emphasizing the happiness that running brings her. In the U12 boys' junior category, Nyayuy Daniel Kah won the 31st edition, demonstrating the potential of the young generation.
The Race of Hope is not limited to a sporting competition; it is also a unifying event that mobilizes local populations and attracts spectators from all over the country. The economic benefits for the region are significant, thanks in particular to tourism and commercial activities generated by the event. However, challenges remain in terms of organization and security, requiring constant attention from the competent authorities.
In conclusion, the 31st edition of the Race of Hope was a success, crowning new champions and confirming the status of this competition as a major event in the Cameroonian sporting calendar. The performances of Hamadou Bih Ibrahim and Wirba Desty Grace will remain etched in the memory, as will the determination of Sarah Lieungu Etonde and the talent of Nyayuy Daniel Kah. The appointment has already been made for the 2027 edition, which promises to be just as exciting.
