New course test for Games cyclists

The cycling schedule has been set for the Natwest Island Games and local riders on the Bermuda team will get a chance to test out a new course.

The Road Race opens up the five-day schedule on July 14 with an 8am start at Frog Lane (next to the National Sports Centre).

The centre-of-the-island course will test the riders and provide an uphill climb right at the end to see if there is anything left in the legs of the competitors.

Mountain bikes will take place at the Arboretum on July 15 at 6:30pm for a criterium. The evening ride will be competitor-friendly as it is a short distance from CedarBridge Academy where many of the athletes will be housed.

The Island Games Time Trial is scheduled at the familiar Southside venue. The riders will have a 9:30am start. 

Mountain bikes are the focus on July 17 with the cross-country race set up at Ferry Reach and the racing ends on July 18 with a criterium on July 18 with a 6:15pm start.

Competing in the Mountain bike events for Bermuda are Phil Trussell, Brian Steinhoff, Che’quan Richardson, Deshi Smith and Mark Hatherley. 

Reigning Cyclist of the Year, who also just won the National Road Race title last Sunday, Dominique Mayho will head the men’s road team which includes  Shannon Lawrence, former pro cyclist Geri Mewett, Darren Glasford and Johan Viver. Nicole Mitchell, Karen Bordage and Earlena Ingham with make up the women’s team.

Peter Dunne, Bermuda Bicycle Association president said: “As the BBA organizes the five races for the NatWest Island Games we are counting on the support of our members to help with marshaling the races and other volunteer spots.  

“We would like all members to volunteer for two of the events so that we can run the events safely and efficiently.”

If you can help e-mail [email protected] with your name, phone number and t-shirt size. 

The Time Trial National Championship takes place on Sunday at Clearwater, starting at 7:30am.