This is my moment

Lieven Corthouts, Biniam Girmay

DISTRIBUTION

Biniam Girmay, a promising 17-year-old cyclist from the African country of Eritrea, dreams of one day competing in the Tour de France, the most prestigious Grand Tour in the world. For years, he thought the Tour was only for European or white cyclists, because in its more than 100 editions, only a handful of participants were Black.

Biniam’s evolving performance and efforts to be selected for a European professional team offer a rare glimpse into the world of African cycling. European visa procedures are a constant stumbling block. When he gets married and becomes a father in Eritrea, the 6,000-kilometer distance takes its toll. But against all odds, Biniam climbs the international rankings. When he wins his first “Classic” at the age of 21, he proves that African riders can win and becomes a cycling hero overnight. Will Biniam Girmay change cycling forever?

“This is my moment” offers a unique glimpse into the life of Eritrean cyclist Biniam Girmay. Lieven Corthouts and Biniam Girmay’s journey began in 2018 when Biniam was still a promising cyclist. For more than six years, Lieven was allowed to film Biniam’s personal and professional life. Because Biniam also filmed his own journey, they created this film together through a collaborative process.