Team Coco’s Jamal John upset a star studded field of rival wheelsmen to cart off the spoils of the feature 35-lap event of the 11th annual United Auto and General Supplies criterium programme yesterday.
The 18-year-old who recorded his first signature win of his career, stopped the clock in one hour, 18 minutes and 08 seconds in perfect conditions for racing at the National Park circuit.
Besides the winner’s trophy, John also pocketed five of the eight sprint prizes, testament to his dominance on race day. John, who commenced his cycling career just 18 months ago, led his more celebrated club mate Hamza Eastman and Marlon Williams (Team Evolution) onto the podium.
Raynauth Jeffrey also of Team Coco’s, Akeem Wilkinson (Team Evolution) and Walter Grant-Stuart filled out the top six rewarding positions.
John proceeded on a solo break away from the 26-man peloton from the very first whistle. In the seventh lap, he was joined by Jeffrey, Shaquel Agard and Wilkinson. Four laps later however, Jeffrey and Wilkinson orchestrated a break away and the duo managed to preserve their lead until the 20th lap.
At this point John and Agard reconnected with the leaders who were playing a cat and mouse game. Two laps later John and Agard had the lead for themselves as Jeffrey and Wilkinson dropped off the pace.
Unfortunately, Agard suffered a puncture soon after and John was left alone to stave off the fast charging peloton led by Williams.
The tireless teen transformed into time-trial mode and was able to hold on for the memorable victory by about 500m.
At the presentation ceremony, the standout performers were presented with their trophies and other incentives by CEO of the company and active cyclist, Shameer Bashk
The programme’s, organizer, Hassan Mohamed, congratulated the competitors for making the fixture a success. He was also in praises of United Auto and General Supplies for sponsoring the programme for the past 11 seasons.
Baskh then promised to continue his sponsorship of the event.
Mohamed’s cycling calendar continues on the first weekend in May. (Emmerson Campbell)
Other winners yesterday included: Brighton John (12-14 Boys and Girls)
Junior Niles (Veteran under 50)
Linden Blackman (Veteran over 50)
Wilfred Thom (Veteran over 60)
Raphael Leung (Juveniles)
Keon Thomas (Mountain Bike)
Jonathan Jagdeo (BMX 9-12)
Adealie Hodge (BMX 12-14)
Alex Leung (BMX 6-9)
