Marlon ‘Fishy’ Williams will be the one to beat on Sunday when National Sports Commission’s cycle coach Hassan Mohamed sends the riders off in the 10th Annual Cheddi Jagan Memorial 50-Mile Road Race.
Williams who won his first lien on the trophy last year is currently in good nick and is certainly the pre-race favourite. He returned two hours 12 minutes 15 seconds last year and will be seeking to improve on that time on Sunday.
The event will wheel off from outside the People’s Progressive Party’s Berbice office at 9am and from there the competitors will proceed to No 51 Village before turning back to finish at Main and Alexander Streets, New Amsterdam.
However, the veterans and upright cyclists will turn back at Hogstye, Corentyne and end at Main and Alexander Streets.
The first six finishers, as well as the first three juniors, the first three veterans, the first three upright cyclists and the first Berbician will receive prizes.
Eight prime prizes will also be up for grabs during the course of the event.
Last year, Alonzo Greaves who finished second overall, won the junior category, while Kennard Lovell and Dexter Williams won the veterans and junior categories respectively.
There was some amount of controversy last year when Darren Allen crossed the finish line in fifth place but was disqualified as two cyclists Junior Niles and Tony Simone lodged a complaint that he (Allen) held on to a motorcar on the downward journey.
Mohamed subsequently disqualified Allen.
Banks DIH will provide Tropical Mist water to all the participants, while Ricks and Sari Agro Industries will be providing hampers to the top finishers in each category.
Those cyclists who need transportation to travel to Berbice are asked to assemble at the Ricks and Sari Head Office, Sheriff Street by 5.30am on Sunday.
Cyclists are also reminded that they must be in possession of their 2007 racing licence. Moreover, they will not be allowed to compete without their club colours. Independent cyclists must wear white tops if they want to take part in the event.
