By Tyriq Walters | November 4, 2024
In a thrilling finale at the Caribbean Elite/Under-23 Cycling Championship on Sunday, Guyana’s Briton John secured the bronze medal in the Men’s Elite Road Race, marking a significant achievement in his cycling career.
The 94-mile race, held along the Heroes Highway, saw fierce competition among the region’s top cyclists.
John crossed the finish line just behind gold medalist Cory Williams of Belize and silver medalist Jesus Cespedes from the Dominican Republic.
With this podium finish, John joins an exclusive group of Guyanese cyclists to medal at the prestigious Senior Caribbean Championship, a list that includes Marlon ‘Fishy’ Williams (gold in 2004), Tony Simon (bronze in 2009), and Dwayne Gibbs (bronze in the Individual Time Trial in 2001).
Despite his emotions after the race, John reflected on his achievement: “I was a little bit sad, I really wanted the win, and I was crying because I didn’t win. Eventually, I made the podium, it’s alright, it’s not too bad.”
In the Women’s Elite Road Race, 57-year-old Denise Jeffrey, competing against Under-23 Elite riders, became an inspiration to fans for her remarkable resilience.
Despite facing an early setback and falling behind the main peloton, Jeffrey completed the challenging 42-mile race in the sweltering midday heat.
Her determination to finish the race reflected her unwavering commitment to representing Guyana.
Jeffrey, a former national squash player, expressed her pride: “Words can’t explain, when I put on this uniform, it gives me the pride that I feel… It’s amazing.”
Sunday’s event marked a historic moment as Guyana hosted the Caribbean Elite and Under-23 Cycling Championships for the first time, ending two days of exciting competition.