The cycling fraternity has been plunged into deep shock and mourning following the untimely death of former national rider, Jude Bentley who died in a fatal accident during early morning training yesterday on the Rupert Craig Highway.
Bentley was 41.
According to reports, Bentley was killed after he was struck from behind, in the vicinity of the Russian Embassy turn at around 5:00hrs by a Toyota Land Cruiser, reportedly driven by Rear Admiral (Ret’d) and former Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Gary Best.
Bentley, who only on Friday signed up to rejoin Carlton Wheelers Cycle Club, died in the club’s racing kit.
In an invited comment, Racing Secretary of the Guyana Cycling Federation, Malcolm Sonoram told Stabroek Sport yesterday that the father of six was impactful to many young riders and his passing “is obviously a loss to the cycling community.”
He added:“Jude died doing something he has done on hundreds of occasions. We normally would meet up around there and have a group ride but I woke up late.”
Sonoram also disclosed that Bentley was scheduled to make his season debut yesterday morning at a competitive meet at the National Park.
Following the news of his death, the 11-race meet at the Park was postponed as a mark of respect.
A lap of honour was ridden by the cyclists instead.
