Sutherland crowned national cycling champion

After consecutive fifth-place finishes in 2021 and 2022, Edwin Sutherland seized the spotlight on Sunday in thrilling fashion to win this year’s Barbados Cycling Union (BCU) National Championship.

Sutherland, representing Team Stoli, blazed through the demanding 14-lap course, crossing the finish line in two hours, 49 minutes, 16.10 seconds (2:49:16.10).

In a nail-biting showdown, he narrowly outpaced the 2021 champion, Joshua Kelly of the Miami Blazers, who was a close second in a time of 2:49:16.26.

Sutherland’s teammate, Dominic Howard, finished in a well-deserved third place in a time of 2:49:21.84.

The competitive spirit extended to the fourth and fifth positions, with Russell Elcock (2:50:23.02) and Club Cadence Cyclery’s Jacob Kelly (2:52:55.64) rounding off the top five.

Defending champion, Gregory Vanderpool, faced unexpected challenges and did not complete the race, adding an element of surprise to the event.

In the female elite division, Amber Joseph, fresh from representing Barbados at the Pan Am Games, claimed victory in style, recording a stellar time of 2:27:10.78, to narrowly edge out Danielle Hinds (2:27:12.95) in a thrilling battle.

The future of cycling shone bright with the young talents on display, as Najari Chase dominated the male Juveniles category, leaving Jonah Kelly and Luke McIntyre in his wake.

The female category witnessed a stunning performance by Arielle Greaves, who claimed the top spot, while Jenais Johnson and Ali Banfield secured second and third places, respectively.

In the Juniors division, Matthew Dacosta demonstrated his supremacy, outpacing Liam Huthinson and Daniel Lashley in an exhilarating race.

The event also showcased Barbados’ top masters in both the male and female categories, bringing a spectacular end to the cycling season for the BCU. (RT)