
The local cycling fraternity was plunged into mourning early Thursday morning following the tragic death of former national champion Alanzo Greaves.
Greaves, one of Guyana’s most accomplished cyclists with achievements on the local, regional, and international circuits, lost his life in a motorcycle accident late Wednesday evening along Mandela Avenue.
Among the first to express sympathy was President Dr Irfaan Ali, who described Greaves as an outstanding sportsman. “I am saddened to learn of the passing of former national cyclist Alanzo Greaves, who tragically died in a motorcycle accident last evening. The cycling fraternity has lost an outstanding sportsman who represented Guyana well. To his family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones, we pray that God grant you the strength and courage during this difficult time. You will remain in our prayers.”
The Cycling Fraternity of Guyana remembered Greaves as both a champion and a role model, “The cycling fraternity mourns the heart-breaking loss of an icon and true legend, Alanzo Nicholas Greaves. Alanzo was not only a former National Cycling Champion but also an inspiration to many, both on and off the saddle. His dedication, resilience, and remarkable achievements have left a lasting mark on the sport and in the hearts of all who knew him. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, and friends during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Gone too soon, but never forgotten.”
The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) shared in a missive, “The Guyana Olympic Association extends its deepest sympathies to the family, relatives, teammates, and friends of former national cyclist Alanzo Greaves, who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident last evening. The cycling fraternity and the wider sporting community have lost an athlete and a true son of the soil who proudly represented Guyana. To his family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones, we pray that God grants you strength, comfort, and courage during this difficult time. Alanzo will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.”
Meanwhile, Director of Sport (DoS) Steve Ninvalle also reflected on Greaves’ illustrious career in a message of condolences from the National Sports Commission (NSC). “The National Sports Commission (NSC) has expressed deep sorrow at the sudden passing of former National Cyclist, Alonzo Greaves, who tragically lost his life on Wednesday evening in a motorcycle accident along Mandela Avenue.
Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Commission, the Government of Guyana, and the wider sporting fraternity. “I recently saw and spoke to Alanzo, and he was his usual self; always happy, always smiling,” Ninvalle pointed out. “Alonzo spent many years as a distinguished national cyclist. He proudly represented Guyana at numerous regional, international, and continental championships and games, and in doing so, etched his name among the finest athletes this country has ever produced,” the Director of Sport stated.
Greaves dominated the local cycling scene for many years, admired for his stamina and tactical brilliance. His career was altered after a devastating motorcycle accident in 2019, which left him with a career-ending leg injury. Despite this setback, he remained deeply connected to the sport – attending meets, supporting younger cyclists, and encouraging the next generation.
The NSC noted that it cherished every moment Greaves donned Guyana’s colours, from his early years as a promising youth rider to his era as one of the most formidable cyclists in the Caribbean.
His presence at cycling meets, even after stepping back from competition, spoke to his lifelong love for the sport and his unwavering connection to the cycling fraternity.
“On behalf of the National Sports Commission, I extend our deepest sympathy to his family, especially his three children, and to everyone whose lives he touched. The cycling community, and indeed all of sport in Guyana, will feel his absence profoundly,” Ninvalle said.
According to Ninvalle, Greaves will be remembered for his remarkable contributions to cycling, his resilience in the face of challenges, and his enduring support for the sport he loved.
His legacy, Ninvalle noted, will live on in the memories of fans, fellow athletes, and the many young cyclists who looked up to him.
“May his soul rest in peace,” Ninvalle concluded.
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