Cycling season gets underway Saturday

By Avenash Ramzan

After a lengthy break, local cyclists will be back on their saddles this weekend when the season officially gets underway with the Ricks and Sari Agro Industries 11-race programme at the inner circuit of the National Park.

Organised by national cycling coach Hassan Mohamed in partnership with the Carlton Wheelers Cycle Club, the event, which will pedal off at 09:00h, will be held for the 24^th year in succession.

“It’s the first race of the season and in partnership with the Carlton Wheelers Cycle Club, I’m extending an invitation to all clubs and riders to come out and be part of the season opener,” Mohamed told News Room Sport on Tuesday.

As is customary, the day’s activities will commence with the youngsters competing in the various BMX age group races, including the 6-9, 9-12, 12-14 Boys and Girls and Open.

Those will be followed by rivalry in the Junior/Juvenile, Mountain Bike and Veteran categories, where the up and coming riders, as well as seasoned campaigners will take to the track.

The final race of the day will be the highlight, featuring the country’s top wheelsmen in the gruelling 35-lap School Boys and Invitational. Last year’s main event was won by Team Evolution’s Michael Anthony, who stopped the clock at one hour, 18 minutes, 38.90 seconds (01h: 18m: 38.90s).

While Anthony would no doubt be looking for a repeat, he would be fully aware that his opponents would also be gunning for a win to start the season on a positive note.

Some of the other winners from 2016 were Romello Crawford in the Juveniles, Andrew Spencer in the Veterans, Adelia Hodge in the BMX 12-14 and Ronaldo Narine in the 12-14 Racing Bikes.

Representatives of Ricks and Sari Agro Industries will be on hand to witness the races and assist in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion.