Ep 5. The Racing Cyclists Of Burundi

In this episode of Hot Roads - The World's Most Dangerous Roads, viewers are taken on a journey to the small landlocked country of Burundi, located in East Africa. The episode focuses on the dangerous roads and the courageous cyclists who race on them.

Burundi is a country that has been plagued by political unrest and violence, making it a challenging place to live, let alone cycle. Despite this, the cyclists in Burundi are committed to their sport and often use it as a means of uplifting themselves and their communities.

The episode begins with a brief history of cycling in Burundi, which gained popularity in the 1980s when French colonizers introduced the sport. Since then, Burundi has produced multiple cycling champions who have competed in international races.

However, the roads in Burundi are not just dangerous, they are also in poor condition. Many of the roads are unpaved, riddled with potholes, and lack proper signage, making it a treacherous journey for even experienced drivers. Cyclists are often forced to ride on the same narrow roads as cars and buses, putting their lives at risk.

Despite the dangers, cycling is cherished in Burundi, and young cyclists often dream of one day becoming professionals and competing in races like the Tour de France. The episode features interviews with several young cyclists who share their dreams and the challenges they face in pursuing them.

Viewers also learn about the role that cycling plays in Burundian culture. Cycling clubs are a common sight on the country's roads, with teams of cyclists wearing matching jerseys and riding in disciplined formations. The episode features footage of these clubs, highlighting the community spirit and camaraderie that cycling fosters in Burundi.

The episode climaxes with a race in the hills outside the country's capital city, Bujumbura. The race is a grueling one, with the cyclists enduring steep inclines, sharp turns, and rough terrain. The cameras follow the cyclists as they push themselves to the limits, with some even falling behind due to exhaustion or mechanical issues.

In the end, the race is won by a young cyclist who is overjoyed at his victory. Despite the difficulty of the course, all the cyclists finish the race, highlighting the determination and resilience that characterizes Burundian cyclists.

Hot Roads - The World's Most Dangerous Roads season 1 episode 5, The Racing Cyclists Of Burundi, is a gripping and emotional journey into the world of cycling in a country where it is not just a sport, but a way of life. So, viewers who are interested in adventure, cycling, and exploring different cultures will enjoy this episode.