Michael Anthony storms past Briton John to win Malta Supreme race

By Brandon Corlette

The 11-stage cycle race held at the National Park yesterday, Saturday July 6, 2019, saw Michael Anthony claiming the top spot in a time of one hour 20 minutes and 55 seconds. Anthony who hails from Linden, outsprinted Briton John at the finish to win the ninth edition of the Banks DIH Malta Supreme racing event.
Anthony and John had led the race during its latter part, breaking away from the pack with the likes of Jamaul John and Paul De Nobrega being absent from the fray; while the Berbician Romello Crawford looked in good touch although he had had a bad start, until he was ruled out of the race after being attacked by a swarm of bees, which stung him with a vengeance.

The moment of Sprint: Michael Anthony outsprinted Briton John at the finish

Walter Grant-Stewart (fourth) set the tone early on, but was outshone by Team Evolution’s Christopher Griffith, who copped third position. Kemuel Moses rode in fifth position, while Alexis Meades came in sixth position in the senior category.
Eight sprint prizes were on offer, three of which Anthony took. Deeraj Garbaran, who played catch-up and was brilliant in his performance, took two sprint prizes, while Stewart took one sprint prize.
This cycling event got off to a riveting start, with Steve Bhimsen who hails from Corentyne Berbice winning the 12-14 Boys 3-lap category in ma time of five minutes 15 seconds. Sherwin Sampson came in second, while Mark Lewis came in third.

Michael Anthony led the pack early on (Brandon Corlette photos)

The veteran over-50 class saw Kennard Lovell copping first position in that 5-lap affair in 25 minutes and 51 seconds, while Veteran champion Andrew Spencer rode in second position and Linden Blackman came in third position.
Lennox Jackman won the BMX Boys 6-9 years 2-lap category. All outstanding cyclists were awarded with silverware at the presentation ceremony that saw Banks DIH Ltd. Representatives in attendance.

The outstanding cyclists after the presentation ceremony

Addressing the media after the cycle race, Anthony explained that this race was a short one, approximately 32 miles. “This race was approximately 32 miles, and I used this race as a form of training to test my speed”, Anthony explained.
The Linden lad detailed that his race had gone according to plan. After an ordinary performance in the National Championships, Anthony said, this race had helped him to see how fast he can ride.
“The National Cycling Championship is a disappointment, but I can only move forward”, Anthony explained.
Cycling organizer and coach, Hassan Mohammed, declared the race a success and greatly thanked Banks DIH for their continuous support. Cycling action will continue next Saturday at the same National Park with the P&P Insurance 11-stage race meet.
Hassan also stated that the young cyclists will compete in a “Teach them Young competition” that will start on Monday. This event will be hosted for the 43rd year.