Cyclists Participate in New Cycling Challenge on St. Croix

The Virgin Islands Cycling Federation added a new race onto their competitive schedule – the Point Udall Time Trial Challenge – which timed each cyclist individually as they were set off from the Divi Hotel and finished at the top of Point Udall. Sunday’s 4-mile race brought out thirty-three riders.

Bikes resting at Point Udall after steep climb. (Photo courtesy of Theresa Harper)

With a short distance to cover, Elite cyclist Mat Porporato picked off six cyclists ahead of him to post the fastest ride of the day – 12:02. Robin Seila was the fastest woman in a time of 13:54, which also put her in 4th place in the Elite category, tied with David Morales. Elite cyclist, Stephen Swanton, was the second fastest overall in 12:41, while Expert rider, Elijah Payeur, was third overall in a time of 12:52. Alex Betancourt rounded out the Elite podium with a third-place finish in 13:03.

Elite winners (l to r) Stephen Swanton (2nd), Mat Porporato (1st), Alex Betancourt (3rd) (Photo courtesy of Theresa Harper)

The top finishers in the remaining categories were Tom Scull (Sport), Angel Ventura (Masters), Laverne Fredericksen (Women) and KoleBert Daisley (Juniors). St Croix cyclist, Mario Peters, sponsored the polka-dot jersey for the fastest rider in each category. The polka-dot jersey in cycling is a symbol of the King or Queen of the Mountain, which is awarded to the leader of the mountain stages in the prestigious race in July.

Junior winners (l to r) Xander Morales (2nd), KoleBert Daisley (1st), Randy Williams (3rd) (Photo courtesy of Theresa Harper)

The next race on the schedule is the East End Road Race on Sunday, April 16, at
7 a.m. For more information, please call 340-643-5050.