Flying Ace Cycle Race in NA: Padlock wins ‘battle of the Berbicians’
Story and photos by Brandon Corlette
Kaieteur Attack cyclist Andre ‘Padlock’ Green stormed to victory in the Flying Ace-organised circuit race in New Amsterdam, held under brilliant sunshine on Friday afternoon.
Padlock receiving his prize, while the other riders and officials stand for the photo
Green stopped the clock in 40 minutes in this 10-lap/16-mile affair around the town, in which riders assembled at Charles Place on Republic Road, turned at Coburg Street into Main Street, and made the final turn at the Tacama Turn on the southern outskirts of Stanleytown, to return to the point of origin for the grand finish.
Junior Niles won the veterans’ category
Padlock opened a huge lead over his fellow Berbicians in this race, and Mario Washington finished second in the senior category. Washington, who finished second overall, also claimed the top prize in the junior category. He was followed by Jason Cameron (third) and Romello Crawford (fourth).
Mario Washington, Jason Cameron and Romello Crawford at Tacama Turn
In the initial laps of the race, it was Green and Crawford who took charge, as six sprint prizes were up for grabs. Green, a resident of Ulverston Village, Corentyne, claimed four sprint prizes, while Crawford took two sprint prizes.
Mario Washington won the junior category and claimed second overall
In the veterans’ category, Junior Niles emerged winner, finishing ahead of Syborne Fernandes and Travis Cipriani.
Reflecting on the race, Padlock said: “The breeze was very hard on this end (Republic Road), but after the first three laps, I saw Crawford was not taking advantage, so I took the advantage.”
Fresh from registering a second-position win in the DDL race on Sunday last in Region Three, Padlock said he is hoping for success in the upcoming races.
“I must thank my club (Kaieteur Attack); Ricky, who helped me out with this bicycle; and Solid Gold,” the champion rider told Guyana Times Sport.
Meanwhile, Flying Ace Cycling Coach and organizer of this race, Randolph Roberts, hailed the race as a success. He said it marked the first cycling race in Berbice for the 2022 season.
“Berbice cyclists, and cyclists countrywide, should look out for the events to come. We have the three-stage and the Big G, Arokium, and A Ally and Son’s race. I would like to thank all the sponsors, including Big G, Banks DIH, Jerrick Funeral Home, and all those that made this race possible,” Roberts said.
He also thanked the Guyana Police Force and the Commander and Deputy Commander in Region Six.
