NEVIS CYCLE & TRIATHLON CLUB

The second race of the 2005/6 triathlon series saw the athletes of St Kitts and Nevis coming together for the last event of the year, the usual suspects were in evidence from both islands, with hot favourites being Reggie Douglas for the men and Jessica Geist for the women. Despite earlier rain the weather cleared for the race start, and sunshine greeted the athletes as they lined up to begin the 350metre swim. Ninian C.Blake (SK) back from studying abroad for the holidays set the swim pace as usual with Jessica and Reggie in hot pursuit, however Ninian held his lead to finish in 6.33 mins, and Jessica fought off reggie to the end, before heading into the transition area for the swim to bike change. Following the rest of the racers in, and showing great spirit, were our intrepid 1/2 marathoners, Sarah and Wendy, who were doing only their second triathlon, this one being twice the distance of their first. Meanwhile Reggie was out on the 12km bike course quickly outpacing and passing Ninian and Jessica, but James Weekes (Nev) was also out to prove something and was doing his best to catch Reggie, the race was hotting up. Nevis's top female, Miranda Grandison was also out to make a mark and improve on her showing in the first race, she had a good swim and was giving her all out on the bike. Royston Stevens (SK) managed to make up some ground on Reggie and James after being left behind in the swim, by posting the second fastest bike time of the the day of 23.25 mins, athough only 9 secs seperated the top four riders. Back into the transition for the bike to run change Reggie was out in front with James hot on his heels, followed by a fast closing Royston. There were also 3 teams competing this day, and they were all mking their prescence felt particular standouts were Kelly (SK) in the swim and Andy on the run who ran a very fast 9.28 min 3km, however the team win went to Jack and Alex of team Scorpion with a time of 42.30 mins. In the final stages of the mens race Reggie held on to take the win by a full minute over James in second, with a time of 40.04mns, and Royston in third place after a very fast 10.37 run. In the womens race Jessica once again proved to strong and easily took the win in a time of 43.37 mins, with Miranda in second and Nicky Aurangabadkar (SK) in third, Wendy Brear also had a good day despite a slow swim, she had a very good bike leg followed by a good run, passing both Paula Price (NEV)and Sarah on the bike. A very good day was had by all with a lot of personal goals being achieved, and the event also serving the purpose of giving the novice athletes valuable race experience, special mention must also be made to the volunteers that help make the races smooth and safe, Collette, Knox, Alex and Dana thank you. The next event is our first for the new year on the 7th January, seasons greetings and a happy new year to all, from the members of the Nevis Cycle & Triathlon Club.