Independence 3-stage cycling begins today

The annual Independence Three-Stage Cycle Road Race organised by the United We Stand Cycle Club (UWSCC) pedals off today at 07:30h. The first stage pedals off from before the Ocean View International Hotel at Liliendaal, proceeds to Mahaicony, and returns to the place of origin for the finish. A distance of 65 miles will be covered.
Race Secretary and Vice President of UWSCC, Joseph Britton, disclosed that he expects a competitive event. He informed that the second stage, on Saturday afternoon, will be a brand new route.
“The second stage on Saturday afternoon, (beginning) from 14:00h, is set for the Homestretch Avenue/Hadfield Street Circuit, where the riders would be traversing 16 times (and covering a distance of) approximately 25 miles.

The final stage, on Sunday, would be contested around the Outer Circuit of the National Park, when the veteran cyclists would start the action at 09:30h and battle for 10 laps, before the seniors and juniors take centre stage and clash for 20 laps. A total of 55 miles will be covered.
There are more than $400,000 up for grabs, according to UWSCC president, Franklin Wilson.
He disclosed that the club recently held a fund raising bar-b-que specifically geared towards garnering funds for this weekend’s race; and along with donations from some friends, would be able to cover the proposed prizes.
Overall cash prizes would go to the top three Juniors and Masters (35-49 and 50 and Over) and top six veterans; while stage prizes will also be presented to the top three Seniors and Masters 35-49.
Sueria Manufacturing Limited of Eccles Industrial Area, East Bank Demerara, under its Activade sports drink brand, on Wednesday joined hands with UWSCC, making its product the official drink of the event.
Other sponsors on board are Oliver Young, Shameer Baksh of Universal Cycle and Auto Spares, and Cleon Melville.