Berbician, Balram Narine kicked off his 2019 campaign on the most positive note, sprinting to victory in the feature 35-lap event of the Ricks and Sari 11-race programme yesterday at the National Park.
The Flying Ace Cycle Club standout won the season opener in a thrilling three-man sprint, besting breakaway mates, Paul DeNobrega and Michael Anthony in an exciting photo finish.
The 20 year-old took the winner’s trophy along with two sprint prizes after stopping the clock in a brisk one hour, 14 minutes and two seconds in perfect conditions for racing.
Brighton John, Alex Mendes and Ajay Gopilall filled out the top six rewarding positions.
In the 26th edition of the event, the strong top six wheelsmen got away from the fourth lap and never relinquished their lead.
At the 18th lap, their advantage had ballooned to 45 seconds on the rest of the 27 starters.
With the lead intact, the top six were all but assured of taking home the six rewarding trophies on offer as they rode as a team to stave off the valiant chasers.
John who enjoyed late season form in 2018, seemed to have the freshest legs on the circuit and relentlessly attacked his breakaway mates in the final five laps. But Narine and the others weathered John’s storm and managed to keep him in check. At the bell lap, the top six were still together separated by inches.
This however changed with about 300m to go when Narine changed gears, rose from his seat and barreled to the line. He was quickly pursued by DeNobrega and Anthony but he had just enough left in the tank to hold off their spirited challenges to win his first signature event at the Mecca of local cycling.
Narine in an invited comment stated that he had a great off season on the saddle and the results will be fully displayed this season. He noted that 2019 will be his coming out party since he has aspirations of making tours as part of the national outfit.
Other winners yesterday included: Nehaum Rigby (BMX Boys 9-12), Jose Rodrigues (BMX Boys 6-9), Ajay Gopilall (Juveniles), Steve Bhimsen (BMX Boys 12-14), Junior Niles (U-50) Andy Spencer (O-50) and Ozia McAuley (Mountain Bike).
Notes: The next cycling event, the R&R International 11-race programme, will be staged at the same venue on February 9.
National Road Race Champion and winner of last year’s fixture sat out the event but spectated on the sidelines. (Emmerson Campbell)
