Richardson, Hatherley to lead Bermuda Island Games squad

A five-man team has been announced to represent Bermuda in the mountain bike events at the Natwest Island Games this summer in Bermuda.

Phil Trussell, Brian Steinhoff, Che'quan Richardson, Deshi Smith and Mark Hatherley were unveiled before the start of the Tokio road race yesterday morning in front of the 120 competitors who turned out to race.

The Bermuda Bicycle Association spokesperson said the squad brings together “strong technical ability, high fitness and youthful enthusiasm.

“The team will be competing in two races during the Games, with a shorter technical course in a criterium and then a longer cross country event to be held at Ferry Reach Park.”

Included in the team is 17 year-old Deshi Smith who won the junior national MTB championship title and Che'quan Richardson who earned the national champion title as the first Bermudian in the adult championship race.  Smith is a student at Bermuda Institute and Richardson studies at Bermuda College. 

Hatherley, known mainly for his exploits in road racing, has earned the MTB national title several times in prior years and will bring his commitment to a high level of fitness and race focus to the group. 

Trussell, originally from Isle of Man is an experienced MTB racer and is familiar with some of the competitors from his home country who will be travelling to Bermuda this July. 

Steinhoff has recently returned to the local racing scene and is know for his technical abilities, a skill he is hoping to help develop further in his younger teammates.

Still to be announced are the teams for men and women in road racing.  An announcement of the five men and three women is expected on May 27.