The first stage of the Cheddi Jagan Memorial 3-Stage Cycle Road Race concluded with a thrilling upset as Briton John emerged victorious, outpacing in-form rival Aaron Newton. The race, which began at Schoonord and proceeded to Bushy Park Parika before returning to Schoonord, saw John complete the course in an impressive 1 hour, 36 minutes, and 48 seconds.
Background on the Event
The Cheddi Jagan Memorial Cycle Road Race is an annual event held in honor of Guyana’s founding father, Dr. Cheddi Jagan. This year’s competition features three stages, with the first stage taking place in West Demerara. The race attracts cyclists from across Guyana, competing in various categories including Seniors, Juniors, Veterans Open, Veterans Over-50, Category 4, and Mountain Bikes.
Stage One Highlights
Briton John’s victory in the first stage was marked by his strategic performance, where he not only won the overall race but also secured two sprint prizes along the way. Aaron Newton finished second, with Jamaul John coming in third. In the Juniors category, Alex Newton took the top spot, earning $12,000 for his win, followed by Alexander Leung and Adjani Cutting.
Impact on the Cycling Community
The Cheddi Jagan Memorial Cycle Road Race is a significant event in Guyana’s cycling calendar, providing a platform for local cyclists to showcase their skills and compete against top talent. The race’s success is a testament to the growing interest in cycling in Guyana and the efforts of organizers like the Charlton Wheelers Cycle Club and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), which sponsors the event.
Conclusion
As the Cheddi Jagan Memorial Cycle Road Race progresses to its next stages, the competition is expected to intensify. Briton John’s win in the first stage sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting series of races, with riders vying for top honors in each category. The event continues to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Cheddi Jagan while fostering a culture of sportsmanship and excellence in Guyanese cycling.
