By Macdella Eyong Bessong
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
Former Tiko United head coach, popularly known for leading the “Samba Boys,” Dominique Njoumou is set to make a fourth appearance at the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope during its 31st edition, scheduled for February 21 in Buea.
Njoumou returns to challenge the famed “Chariots of the Gods” after an eleven-year break from competitive athletics, during which he focused on football management. He served as coach of Bang Bullet in the North West Regional League before moving to Tiko United, the 2009 Elite One champions.
However, his coaching career suffered major setbacks as both clubs were relegated to lower divisions following revived sanctions linked to indiscipline. His time at Tiko United ended painfully, with the club dropping two divisions and Njoumou receiving a three-month suspension and a fine of FCFA 1 million from the South West Bureau of FECAFOOT.
Following these challenges, Coach Dominique Njoumou decided to reconnect with his long-standing passion for athletics.
On Saturday, January 25, 2026, he featured in the test race for the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, competing against a strong field of runners and finishing in a respectable 15th position.
Although many may see him as a newcomer, this will in fact be his fourth attempt at the iconic race. His first appearance came in 2010, when he successfully reached the summit but sustained an injury on the descent, forcing him to abandon the race and miss the following edition.
He returned in 2012 and finished 27th, before improving to 18th place in his last participation in 2015.
Speaking to Kick442.com, Njoumou said he is determined to make a strong comeback after years away from the competition.
Since 2015, I have not taken part in the race, but I have been training. I am familiar with the terrain because I used to live in Bokwango, not far from the mountain,” he said.
This time, I am working hard to overcome the challenges of my previous participations. I know it won’t be easy, but with dedication and training, it is possible. My biggest challenge now is managing my weight, but I am working on it and I am confident I will do better this year,” he added.
Despite not being a full-time athlete, his steady improvement in past editions remains a source of motivation. Njoumou believes competition brings out the best in an individual and hopes to translate that belief into a strong performance.
Attention now turns to the much-anticipated race day in Cameroon’s “City of Legendary Hospitality,” where about 650 athletes will compete for glory, a grand prize of 10 million FCFA, and other material rewards.
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