International cycling raises Jamaica’s profile
Attracting top Jamaican cyclists as well as competitors from other countries, the event, which ran from April 5 to 8 in the Rose Hall area and culminated in Ironshore, not only showcased the island’s stunning landscapes, tailormade for international cycling, but saw a resurgent and enthusiastic fanbase that braved the sun to cheer all weekend.
Organised by Simmonds High Velocity Cycling Club, a dedicated team of cyclists, including future Olympic hopefuls, the Jamaica Cycling Classic 2024 exceeded all expectations, with participants and spectators praising the event for its seamless organisation, challenging course, and festive atmosphere.
From amateur riders to seasoned professionals, cyclists of all levels came together to test their skills and enjoy the thrill of competing in an event that is growing in stature.
Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon, said the Jamaica Cycling Classic 2024 has proven to be a landmark event for the island and the wider cycling community.
He noted that this year’s edition not only showcased the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Jamaica, but also signaled a new era for the event, as it attracted the attention of international cycling authorities and elevated its status to reputable international standards, positioning it as the premier cycling event in the Caribbean.
“The presence of international cycling bodies at the Jamaica Cycling Classic 2024 underscored the event’s growing significance on the global stage. Representatives from prominent governing bodies, including the UCI (Union Cyclists International), were in attendance. They commended the organisers for their meticulous planning, challenging course design, and overall execution of the event,” he told JIS News.
“Their support and endorsement have cemented the Jamaica Cycling Classic’s reputation as a world-class cycling competition that meets the highest international standards,” he added.
Senior Strategist and Senior Adviser in the Ministry of Tourism, Delano Seiveright, said that one of the key aspirations for the organisers is to secure broadcasting rights with Global Sports Network (GSN) for next year’s event.
“The collaboration with GSN would not only bring unprecedented international exposure to the race but also elevate the viewing experience to new heights, allowing fans from around the world to witness the excitement of the Jamaica Cycling Classic in real-time. This partnership has the potential to draw a global audience and position the event as a must-watch on the international cycling calendar,” he added.
For his part, Coach and Race Director, Carlton Simmonds, said the success of the three-day event was a sign of even bigger things to come, noting that the Jamaica Cycling Classic was now internationally certified and akin to other official tours worldwide.
“This is now like what the Tour de France is to France… that’s what the Jamaica Cycling Classic means to Jamaica,” he noted.
“I am very happy with how the event unfolded. One of the big things is that there was no major incident or accident, and the police did an exceptionally good job. This is always, for me, the key point of any event. I think, all in all, we had a very lovely three days of racing; very competitive,” Mr. Simmonds added.
Mr. Simmonds said that while Colombia’s Team Medellin, one of the country’s top cycling teams, was dominant in the team event, he was happy with how the other competitors performed.
He noted that the event will go a long way in helping to bring greater attention to the sport in Jamaica.
“I think it has and it will bring attention over time, because the event itself has gained international ratification. That’s part of the plan from day one. What it will mean for the country is that you’re now going to see more international cyclists coming to Jamaica,” he said.
Christian Saavedra made it back-to-back wins after taking Sunday’s third and final stage, riding 60 miles from Montego Bay, St. James, to Duncans in Trelawny and back, in two hours nine minutes and 32 seconds.
He had won Saturday’s 78-mile ride from Montego Bay to Discovery Bay, St Ann, and back.
His teammate and overall winner, team leader Wilmar Andres Paredes Zapata, had won the first stage on Friday’s opening day – 56 miles to Falmouth and back. Additionally, Paredes Zapata had five of the six King of the Mountain points.
On Sunday, American Preston Eye of Team WBHB was second overall, followed by Liam Trepte, a Trinidadian riding for Cornwall Cycling Club. Oshane Williams, also of Cornwall Cycling Club, was the top local rider overall in fourth place.
Coach of the Colombian club, Julian Velasques, said he was thrilled with his team’s performance throughout the weekend.
“We are very happy. First of all, we enjoyed our stay here in Jamaica. It was the first time riding in Jamaica for our team and I love the country and the people. [It was] very special to win three stages and the overall classification here,” he said.
“I’m very appreciative, very happy with the organisation of the race; very friendly with us, and this is the reason we come here to Jamaica – and we want to come back next year,” he added.
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