GCF confirms route for Independence 3-stage race as $500,000 top prize expected

The Guyana Cycling Federation has confirmed the route and schedule for the 2026 Independence Three-Stage Cycle Race, with this year’s event set to coincide with Guyana’s 60th Independence anniversary celebrations on May 23 and 24.
According to the federation, the annual event will again receive support from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport through the National Sports Commission. The body in a press release said the race is intended to promote national unity while showcasing Guyana’s ongoing infrastructural development.
An inside source told this publication that the winner of the Elite category is expected to receive $500,000, although the official prize structure has not yet been announced.
The race will be contested over three stages, with cyclists covering distances between 45 and 60 miles per stage in the Elite, Junior and Masters categories, while female and juvenile riders will compete over 25-mile distances.

Stage One is scheduled for May 23 and will begin at 07:00h from Linden to the Mabura Highway and back. Stage Two, also on May 23, will start at 14:00h and run from Linden to Long Creek and back.
The final stage on May 24 will commence at 07:00h and travel from Schoonord to Parika before continuing along the Ogle Bypass Road, railway embankment and Sheriff Street, finishing at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
In a notice issued to affiliated clubs, the federation stated that the race route was approved following deliberations at a council meeting held on May 5. Clubs were also advised to ensure their riders are properly registered and prepared for participation.
The federation further noted that the opening stage will utilise the newly constructed Lethem-Mabura Road, while the final stage will cross the Dr Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara Harbour Bridge as part of activities marking Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
The 2025 edition of the race was dominated by Colombian rider Mateo Garcia, who represented Trinidadian club Team Raiders and won all three stages to secure the overall title. Garcia completed the event in a combined time of 6 hours, 18 minutes and 47 seconds.
Sources close to the event have indicated that Garcia is tentatively expected to return this year with Team Raiders, although the Trinidad-based outfit has not yet officially confirmed its participation.
The federation also acknowledged the continued support of Minister Charles Ramson Jr and Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle for the staging of the event.