Nicholas Paul secured his third gold medal at the Pan American Track Cycling Championships, contributing to Trinidad and Tobago’s impressive medal tally of four golds. Michael Phillips commended the cyclists’ performances and emphasized the importance of fostering local cycling interest among younger generations through dynamic events.
Michael Phillips, former national cyclist and ex-president of the TT Cycling Federation, praised the remarkable achievements of Trinidad and Tobago’s cyclists at the Elite Pan American Track Cycling Championships in Paraguay, culminating in four gold medals on April 6. Nicholas Paul excelled, winning his third gold medal in the men’s 1km time trial, adding to his previous wins in team and individual sprints, alongside a silver in the keirin event.
Competing at the National Olympic Velodrome in Asunción, Paul demonstrated strong performance with the second-fastest qualifying time of 59.669 seconds, just behind Colombia’s Cristian Ortega. In the final, however, Paul surpassed Ortega, securing gold with a time of 59.729 seconds, as Ortega earned silver at 1:00.372, followed by Canadian cyclists James Hedgcock and Ryan Dodyk.
Phillips reflected on the impressive achievements of the cyclists, emphasizing their performance keeps the Trinidad and Tobago flag flying high. He remarked on Njisane Phillip’s return to form with a medal in the team sprint, expressing pride in their successful medal haul, which showcases their dominance particularly in the sprint events on the regional stage.
On April 5, Paul retained his sprint title and Teniel Campbell won gold in the women’s points race. Earlier, on April 2, the men’s sprint team of Paul, Phillip, and Ryan D’Abreau earned TT’s first gold of the championships, defeating teams from Colombia and Mexico. Campbell also secured a bronze in the women’s elimination on April 3.
Phillips expressed happiness regarding the development of TT’s cyclists and their capacity to perform at international levels. He acknowledged the growth of young talents and the support systems that contribute to their success, urging for initiatives to stimulate local interest and participation in cycling among youth. He highlighted the need for events to reflect the high standards of cycling seen in the 1980s and early 90s in Trinidad and Tobago.
Trinidad and Tobago’s standout performance at the Elite Pan American Track Cycling Championships showcases the country’s strength in cycling, particularly in sprint events. Nicholas Paul’s accomplishments, alongside his teammates, highlight the consistent growth and success of local athletes on international platforms. Michael Phillips’ advocacy for enhancing youth engagement in cycling underscores the ongoing need to develop the sport further in Trinidad and Tobago.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
