Darren Matthews is three-stage winner

Paul DeNobrega crossing the finish line ahead of Darren Matthews in the final stage of the event yesterday. (Orlando Charles photo)

After two days and 171.5 miles of intense racing on the roadways, Darren Matthews emerged winner of the 32nd annual NSC Independence Three-Stage Road Race yesterday.

As the sprinters approached the finish line on a sunny morning under the banner of several overhanging trees on Homestretch Avenue, it was Team Alanis’ Paul DeNobrega who had just enough left in the tank to edge out Matthews for the final stage win.

However, Matthews first stage victory and the second place finishes in the final two stages ensured he preserved the two-second lead he had over