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Cycling desperately needs a strong federation

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Dear Editor,
Briton John is the Independence Three-Stage Cycle Race Champion. He
rode magnificently to win all three legs of the National Sports Commission’s Annual Three-Stage Cycle Race.
The 41st Independence Cycle Race was a tremendous success. The international cycling event attracted more than 50 entries from Guyana and the Caribbean. However, after many years of keen struggle, the young and masterful Guyanese Briton John dominated the Race and won all three stages in his own style and fashion.
The annual event had been in limbo, as many cyclists had threatened to boycott the prestigious race. However, better reasoning and relevant discussions ensured the event was a success.
Significantly, discussions revealed that cycling as a sporting discipline is on the decline. The no-show of cyclists from Linden is unacceptable. The event would normally attract approximately 100 cyclists in the various categories. However, with less than fifty cyclists at the starting point, it was really the participation of the international top cyclists that brought the real attraction to the event.
However, the magnificent performance and record-breaking speed of Briton John really sparkled in all three stages of this prestigious race. The top six cyclists to complete the gruelling 169 miles over the four administrative regions were: John, followed by Trinidadian Enriques De Camarand, Cortis Dey, Joryn Simpson, the veteran Robin Persaud and Paul De Nobrega.
In the Female category, Trinidadian Chyanne Awai was the winner, while Loffe Kelkis from Suriname was second and Guyanese Abigail was third. The veterans Roy Mangru, Ian Jackson and Robin Persaud all won prizes.
The future of cycling looks good, with the top Junior cyclist Alexander Leung coming in first in his category, and being followed by Sidwell Sandy and the consistent Alex Newton. The introduction of the Juvenile category is most encouraging.
This highly successful annual race was indeed a revelation. Cycling is almost non-existent in the mining town of Linden; the once top club Carlton Wheelers is not functioning, Continental Cycle Club is limping, and Berbice has one club functioning. Other areas that had cyclists are not doing well.
In Guyana, the largest functioning category are the veterans. Guyana desperately needs a head coach; the Federation must revitalize the nursey at the National Park, and we must have a strong club structure.
Cycling desperately needs a strong Federation with a developing programme. Government is willing to continue its valuable contribution to the development of the discipline. However, more serious and thorough planning will have to be in the Federation. Cycling certainly misses Hassan Mohammed.

Sincerely,
Neil Kumar

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