Saint Lucian Shines In Martinique Cycling

by Terry Finisterre Three Saint Lucian riders have returned from a four-day race in Martinique, one of them getting a stage medal in his division. A total of 44 riders from continental Europe, Africa, Central America, and the Caribbean began the inaugural Grand Prix Montagne Pelée, Land of Champions on Thursday, 13 June 2024. Seven of the riders competed in the Under-19 division. A student of Entrepot Secondary, Denver Alphonse was the lead competitor from Saint Lucia. The young man has set his long-term sights on competing internationally for Saint Lucia, and one day taking part in the world-famous Tour de France. To that end, he has competed heavily in local races, as well as having ridden in the Dominican Republic and Martinique. He returned to Martinique last weekend for the Grand Prix Montagne Pelée. The event, which covered 252.43 kilometres, was organized by the Regional Cycling Committee of Martinique and the Mel Makrel Association under the auspices of the French Cycling Federation. A time trial on the opening day encompassed the route Macouba to Ajoupa-Bouillon, 13.24 km. On Day 2, Stage 2 ran from Saint-Pierre to Fonds-Saint-Denis, 79.72 km. A mountainous circuit between Saint-Pierre and Morne-Rouge was covered six...