When the vision of building a cycling center for the youth of Rwanda first began to take shape, one famous line from the movie “Field of Dreams” stayed with us: “Build it, and they will come.”
Now, exactly two years later, what can we say? They are coming, by the thousands.
Nothing captured this more than the incredible scene at the Field of Dreams cycling center in Bugesera, Rwanda, when Israel – Premier Tech arrived for their annual visit on Friday – this time, to celebrate the center’s second anniversary.
Children of all ages eagerly waited to showcase their skills on the pump track, proudly demonstrating their progress to the IPT riders. Meanwhile, members of the women’s team lined up for an exciting race against the pro riders.
But the most special moment belonged to a new group of kids — those experiencing the ultimate joy of testing out the brand-new bikes that IPT had provided for them.
This anniversary was more than just a celebration. Instead, it marked the launch of the newest chapter in our Racing for Change initiative: a dedicated road cycling team for the youth of Bugesera, called Israel – Premier Tech Bugesera Generation NEXT.
This new team will focus on developing road cycling skills, building on the incredible technical foundation many of these young riders have already gained from training on our highly successful pump track and dedicated race track.
IPT’s Israeli sprinter, Itamar Einhorn, who joined his teammates in a practice session with the young cyclists, was amazed by the progress: “This is my second visit to the center, and it’s just astonishing to see how it has flourished,” he says.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests. Uwamahoro Innocente, Executive Secretary of the GSF which operates the Field of Dreams, described the project’s impact on the local youth as nothing short of transformative.
“Over the past two years, the Field of Dreams project has changed the lives of thousands of young people, ages 8-18, who have discovered their passion for cycling and developed key skills on the pump track and beyond,” says Innocente. “This journey has not only shaped talented riders but has also fostered confidence, discipline, and a strong sense of community.
“As we launch this new youth team, we are excited to expand the opportunities for growth. Our vision is to create a nurturing environment where every child can thrive, challenge themselves, and build lifelong skills — both on the bike and in life.”
One of the driving forces behind the project, Shaul Hatzir (below), believes the new team will quickly attract even more young riders. He says: “Like the pump track, it’s open to all. If you come, you’ll get a bike, a helmet, and a guided lesson. That’s how it starts!”
For Israel – Premier Tech owner Sylvan Adams, the Field of Dreams project is a source of immense pride. “When we first announced our plan to build a multi-disciplinary bike center in Rwanda, many doubted us – both outside Rwanda and even within the country.
“But we believed in our vision, and today, just two years later, our bike park in Rwanda is one of the most popular in the world. Seeing the pure joy on the faces of the kids using our facilities is deeply rewarding.
“From the very start, we committed to supporting this community — not just by building the center but by providing bikes, helmets, shoes, clothing, and coaching. We sent Israeli trainers to help develop local talent.
“At the inauguration, I was asked by reporters why we had taken on this project. My answer was simple: my Jewish values.
“In our tradition, we have an imperative to improve the world — known in Hebrew as Tikun Olam.
“This project embodies that philosophy, and while I am incredibly proud of what we have built so far, I am even more excited for what comes next.”
