By Michaelangelo Jacobus
Yesterday, the Kaieteur Attack Racing Cycling Club (KARCC) launched its “Fireworks 2: Pink Edition Cycle Race” at the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown.
The event, held in solidarity with the Guyana Cancer Foundation and aimed at spreading awareness about breast cancer, is set for tomorrow, pedaling off at 10am. The event which follows a cycle criterium format, will be held at the iconic Seawall Band Stand.
Speaking at the launch of the event, Vice-President of the club, Mark St Claire stated; “This event signifies our collective commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer while promoting the spirit of healthy competition and unity in Guyana.”
He added; “Through this event, KARCC aims to provide support, encouragement, and hope to those affected by breast cancer and their families. Integrating physical activities like cycling, proven to reduce the risk of breast cancer, aligns with our mission. A part of the proceeds will be contributed to the Guyana Cancer Foundation.”
Also present at the launch was Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) Horace Burrowes who thanked KARCC for hosting the event which started last year.
“It is an honor to be a part of the event because ever since they (KARCC) have become affiliated to the GCF they have raised the bar in hosting cycling events and we are grateful to have them in the fraternity. The return of bandstand cycling is also significant. I am happy to know that KARCC has taken the initiative to bring cycling back in a big way and we (GCF) are hoping that the event can continue to be an annual fixture on the cycling calendar. We at the GCF will continue to be a strong advocate for breast cancer awareness and we are grateful for the Cancer Foundation and their hard work” Burrowes declared.
Meanwhile, President of the Cancer Foundation, Bibi Hassan revealed; “We are honored to be here with the Kaieteur Attack Club and we are grateful for their support”.
The race will be split into two segments. The first segment will feature veterans’ over-50, juniors, females, mountain bikers and beginners while the second segment includes elites, veterans over-40, and juniors.
Spectators will witness local champions and international competitors, including cyclists from the Kaieteur Attack Racing Cycling Club, We Stand United, KFC Evolution, and counterparts from the USA, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.
The race will pedal off from the Band Stand and head west into the Seawall Public Road turn onto High Street before making a left into Young Street, another left into Camp Road and head back to the Band Stand to complete a lap. The first segment of competitors will race for 15 laps while the second segment (Elites, Veterans O-40 and juniors) will clash for 30 laps. The winner of the inaugural event last year was top wheelsman and new Kaieteur Attack recruit Jamual John.
Sponsors of the event includes BM Soat, Sleepin Hotel & Bike Shop, Monty Lewis, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Fitness Express, Royal Chicken, Prem’s Electrical, and Auto Toy Store while KARCC’s kit sponsors are Sherwin Williams, Colours Boutique, Anchor Cement, Rays Auto Sale and the Professional Key Shop.