Emmanuel Sesi’s journey into the world of professional cycling is a testament to passion,
perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Born and raised in Ghana, Emmanuel’s
story is one of determination and the relentless pursuit of excellence in a sport where
representation from his homeland is scarce.
Early Beginnings and Passion Ignited:
Emmanuel’s journey into cycling wasn’t a predetermined path. Growing up in a financially
challenged environment, he initially had no aspirations of becoming a cyclist. However, fate had
other plans. Introduced to cycling by friends who roamed the streets with their mountain bikes,
Emmanuel found himself drawn to the thrill and camaraderie of the sport. Despite lacking the
resources, he embraced the challenge, hopping onto his old mountain bike and pedaling
alongside his peers.
From Mountain Bikes to Racing:
What began as recreational rides through neighboring communities gradually transformed into a
passion for competitive cycling. Emmanuel’s talent and dedication caught the eye of seasoned
cyclists, and his potential was recognized during a race from Sogakofe to Ho, where he
impressed despite his modest equipment.
Financial Struggles and Self-Reliance:
Emmanuel’s journey was marked by financial hurdles. With limited support from his family, he
took it upon himself to finance his cycling endeavors. Purchasing his first racer bike was a
milestone achieved through sheer determination and personal sacrifice. While occasional support
trickled in from family and some benevolent individuals during crucial moments, Emmanuel
largely relied on his own efforts to fund his passion.
Role Models and Inspirations:
Drawing inspiration from cycling icons like Peter Sagan, Mike Avarich, and Armstrong,
Emmanuel aspired to emulate their achievements and carve his own legacy in the sport. Their
success fueled his ambition, motivating him to push boundaries and strive for excellence in every
race.
Competitive Spirit and Rising Through the Ranks:
Emmanuel’s competitive journey saw him participate in numerous races across Ghana, each
serving as a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal. Despite facing setbacks and challenges,
including disqualifications and equipment limitations, Emmanuel’s resilience never wavered. His
performances steadily improved, earning him recognition within the cycling community and
catching the attention of the Ghana Cycling Federation.
A Record of Achievements:
Emmanuel’s list of accolades speaks volumes about his dedication and skill as a cyclist. In 2023,
he represented Ghana at the 34 th edition of Tour Du Faso, showcasing his prowess as one of the
youngest participants. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, earning him
recognition at the event.
Additionally, Emmanuel clinched the fourth position at the prestigious 3Fm Tour Du Ghana in
the same year, further solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the African
cycling scene. Not content with regional success, Emmanuel also secured the bronze medal at the
2023 National Championship held in Ho, Volta Region’s capital town.
Despite facing setbacks, such as being sidelined as a reserve at the 2023 All African Games,
Emmanuel’s resolve remained unshaken. He continued to defy expectations and push the
boundaries of his abilities, culminating in a triumphant victory at the 2024 Ride Afrique event
held on 30 th March, where he outclassed three professional cyclists from Nigeria to claim the top
spot.
A Vision for the Future:
At just 19 years old, Emmanuel Sesi’s journey is still unfolding. With each pedal stroke, he
inches closer to his dream of representing Ghana on the international stage. His vision extends
beyond personal success, encompassing a desire to see cycling thrive as a recognized sport in
Africa, echoing the popularity of football across the continent.
Emmanuel’s story is one of hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief that with determination
and support, even the most unlikely dreams can be realized. As he continues to chase his passion
on two wheels, Emmanuel Sesi stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring cyclists in Ghana
and beyond.