Jamaica International Cycling Classic: Creating Ambiance and Opportunities for Local Riders

The Jamaica International Cycling Classic is set to kick off its third year with a bang, as event organizer Carlton Simmonds aims to provide international opportunities for local riders and boost interest in the sport on the island. With accreditation from the International Cycling Union, the Classic will now offer qualification points for major international events such as the Olympic Games, the PanAmerican Games, and the Commonwealth Games.

Simmonds, a former national representative and coach, is excited about the potential of the event to showcase Jamaica as a sport tourism destination and attract international teams to compete. Over 50 cyclists are expected to participate, including top-ranked teams from South America and the United States.

The stages of the race will unfold along Jamaica’s picturesque north coast, with the start and finish for each stage taking place at Whitter Village in Montego Bay. Riders will cover a total of 320 miles over three stages, with a total prize purse of over US$11,000 up for grabs.

Simmonds hopes that the event will not only provide a challenging competition for elite-level riders but also inspire the next generation of cyclists in Jamaica. He believes that the sport has not received the attention it deserves despite the island’s success at every level, and he sees the Classic as a way to reignite interest and grow the sport in the country.

The Jamaica International Cycling Classic is organized by Simmonds High Velocity Cycling Club, which was founded in 2017 with the goal of supporting local riders and providing them with opportunities to excel on the international stage. With the success of the Classic in its first two years and the increased interest from international teams, Simmonds is confident that the event will continue to make a positive impact on the sport in Jamaica.