Greaves, Dacosta-Hinds representing Barbados on the track in Peru

Two of Barbados’ brightest young cycling talents, 16-year-olds Arielle Greaves and Matthew Dacosta-Hinds, are set to don national colours at the Junior Pan American Track Cycling Championships, which rolled off at the Videna Velodrome in Lima, Peru, on Thursday, concluding on Tuesday.

Competing under the banner of the Barbados Cycling Union (BCU), this marks the first major international outing for both athletes—a significant milestone in their budding careers.

Greaves, known for her explosive power, will line up in the sprints on Saturday, the kilometre time trial on Monday, and the keirin on Tuesday.

Dacosta-Hinds is entered in the demanding omnium, which includes the scratch race on Saturday, the points race on Sunday, the omnium final on Monday, and the elimination race on Tuesday.

The two cyclists are accompanied by team manager Ron Greaves, who is providing logistical and technical support throughout the championship.

President of the Barbados Cycling Union, Charles Lynch, expressed pride in the young riders’ achievement and said their participation reflects the continued progress of the island’s junior cycling development programme.

“We are proud to see these young riders stepping onto the international stage,” said Lynch.

“It’s a learning curve for both athletes and a great opportunity to build confidence, gain experience, and test themselves against top competitors from across the region.”

The Junior Pan American Championships attract elite Under-19 cyclists from across the Americas and serve as a critical stepping stone toward higher levels of international competition. (RW)