Jeffrey fastest in GCF time trials

By Rene Stoby

Time trial for the juniors, veterans and cycling elites was hosted yesterday by the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) at the Mahaicony circuit, East Coast of Demerara amidst some controversies.

Raynauth Jeffrey
Raynauth Jeffrey

The Juniors first took to the start line at 08:00 hrs and team Evolution’s Christopher Cornelius recorded the fastest time for the one lap ride which is the equivalent of 5.3 miles. The Linden cyclist who has been riding competitively for just over a year recorded a time of 13:44.31. We Stand United (WSU) rider Andrew Hicks was second in 13:46.85 and Deoraj Garbarran of team Alanis third in.14:10.50.

In the veterans category, team Evolution rider Stephen Fernandes was able to turn the tables on Junior Niles of Team Coco after having to play second fiddle to him for much of the season. Fernandes was elated about his win and described the race as “the race of truth” as there is no wheel to follow, no draught to get and no bunch sprint to win. He also said that he was confident coming into this type of race as it was his time to shine.

Fernandes finished in a time of 13:42.75 followed by Raymond Newton of Roraima Bikers in 13:46.72 and team Coco’s Junior Niles in 13:49.

Confusion was the order of the day in the Elites category as the ten cyclists that registered for the race had to

Christopher Cornelius
Christopher Cornelius

first brave the wet conditions then deal with the frustration of awaiting the final results as the incompetence of the GCF was on full display.

Results were released then retracted on two separate occasions and at the end of it all team Coco’s Raynauth Jeffery was deservedly declared strongest, finishing the two-lap race against the clock in 24 minutes and 7 seconds. To the naked eye Jeffrey appeared to be the favourite for the race after narrowing the distance on the Inform Orville Hinds who started ahead of him.

Evolution rider Marlon “Fishy” Williams was second in 25:0:5 while Jamaul John of team Coco was third in 25:16.

Elite cyclists will now turn their attention to the national road race, scheduled for today around the outer circuit of the National Park for 30 laps covering an approximate distance of 72 miles. The race will start at 11:00 hrs with the finishing line at the entrance of the Guyana Defence Force.

The race undoubtedly promises to be a showdown between cyclists of team Evolution and team Coco with only overseas based Scott Savory being the likeliest of party crasher.

Cycling fans are encouraged to come out in their numbers support the event and cheer on their favourite cyclists. The GCF will have a well-stocked drinks bar and bar-b-que chicken for patrons who are encouraged to support the federation with their purchases.