Competitive cycling returns to Linden tomorrow with the staging of the second Time-Trial event.
According to Racing Secretary of the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF), Malcolm Sonaram, all systems are go for the fixture which is scheduled to get off to a fast start from 09:00hrs.
The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) accredited Commissaire stated that tomorrow’s race is set to attract in excess of 30 of the nation’s best wheelsmen who are eager once again to unchain their competitive juices.
Racing against the clock will start at Amelia’s Ward (KD&J Supermarket) to Moblissa Hill and back.
Each cyclist will start at a two-minute increment to avoid grouping along the race course. The top three finishers in each event will be rewarded, while the overall accumulated time placings will be awarded one through six.
Sonaram pointed out that the event is geared towards adhering to the COVID-19 measures. Time Trial events provided the perfect stage for the return of competitive racing in a safe environment. Prior to the start, temperature tests will be conducted on each cyclist.
Time trials are commonly referred to as the ‘race of truth’ as they require considerable mental concentration and toughness as well as the ability to tolerate intense physical discomfort.
However, cyclists compete individually and against only one competitor — the timing clock.
The first leg was held November 22 from Sparendaam to the Kitty roundabout and back to the COVID-19 Hospital at Liliendaal.
Elite sprinter, Marlon ‘Fishy’ Williams provided a reminder of his pedigree with a victory.
In the first local competitive event since the COVID-19 pandemic shut down racing in mid-March, Williams was a class above the rest of the 33 starters, setting a time of 11m:18.39s on the flat 5-mile course.
Star cyclists, Jamual John (11:26.04) and Brighton John (11:38.70) joined Williams on the podium.
Marcus Keiler (11:47.26), Kwame Ridley (12:05.92) and Alex Mendes (12:09.61) rounded out the top six finishers.
Williams, a native of The Mining Town will be aiming for a repeat in his backyard.
