Amidst slight showers that wafted across Region 6, East Berbice-Corentyne, on Sunday, top Berbice cyclist Romello Crawford stormed to an emphatic win in the Seven Seas 40-mile Cycle Race that was run from Alexander Street in New Amsterdam to the Taki Gas Station at Adventure Corentyne, and back to the point of origin for conclusion of the event.
Romello Crawford celebrates in style
He completed this race in two hours, 20 minutes, at the finish defeating a spirited challenge from Balram Narine, who rode in second, and Ajay Gopilall who rode in third. Ralph Seenarine and Jason Sampson respectively completed the top-five finishers in the Open category of this race. Sampson, Crawford, and Gopilall each took two sprint prizes, while Narine and Seenarine each took one.
This was Crawford’s second win in as many weeks, and he distinguished himself from the 17 starters that participated in the event.
He found himself in the leading bunch early, and maintained that speed to cap off the victory in the end.
Crawford said after the race that it was an easy ride for him. He noted that the road was wet, but despite his sliding, he was good enough to come out on top.
“I was not planning on winning. (I) was riding for the team, but I still managed to win”, Crawford explained.
The outstanding cyclists and Seven Seas representatives pose with other officials
The young cyclist disclosed that he is aiming to win the major races in the United States of America, where he will be plying his trade.
The race for the 12-14 category turned back from the Benjamin Sports Bar at Courtland Corentyne, and Richard Crandon won that race from Aaron Rajnarine (second), Stephon Cumberbatch (third) and Ravikant Mootoo (fourth).
In the Juveniles category, Mario Washington beat Jeremiah Joseph into second place.
Meanwhile Wazim Ali, senior branch manager of the Massy company, has signalled the company’s intention to show support for cycling for an extended period.
After the race, cyclists showed their respect for the late Jude Bentley who was buried on Sunday.
The next race in Berbice is expected to pedal off next weekend.
