TTCF hopes cyclists can resume training soon

ALTHOUGH the resumption of training at the National Cycling Centre in Couva and the Arima Velodrome is still prohibited due to Government’s covid19 lockdown measures, the TT Cycling Federation (TTCF) continues to adapt accordingly and plan for a welcome restart.

TTCF president Joseph Roberts recently held talks with members of the Sport Company of TT (SporTT) and Arima track officials to ascertain the possibility of riders resuming individual training at both facilities while adhering to physical distancing guidelines.

Roberts remains optimistic in the Government’s phased reopening of the country and hopes his recent discussions with both entities would derive some good news for TT’s developing and professional cyclists.

“I have been in conversation with SporTT and the Arima Velodrome as to how we can implement, with social distancing or guidelines, to start back training on the track. We have put forward some things and hopefully it would find favour once the Government continues to ease their restrictions on the pandemic. We’re hoping for individual training in the near future,” said Roberts on Tuesday.

In the meantime, the local cycling body is working with people to set up virtual courses for cyclists to recreate, use as exercise and compete against one another while maintaining stay at home measures.

This type of training has been implemented in several countries to keep their cyclists active and fit in anticipation for when restrictions are further lifted.

“In the first instance, we are looking at a time trial event. We are still in discussions and they are yet to be completed though. It’s an opportunity for us to still participate because it’s happening globally. It’s still a way to ride and compete together,” added the TTCF boss.

Thus far, TTCF has suspended its calendar of events until the end of July. The fraternity has tentatively set October 22-23 for the National Road Championships but awaits further information from relevant authorities as the pandemic progresses.

According to Joseph, the tourney will be held once the Government gives the all-clear for the resumption of competitive cycling.

There are also several coaching and mechanic development programmes tentatively scheduled for later down in the year which success depends on the execution of TT’s phased reopening process.

Roberts admitted the current downtime has also provided the TTCF with an opportunity to look within itself as an organization and provided the executive with some additional time to strengthen its governance issues.

“It’s something we’re working on to help build the organization for the betterment of the sport both locally and internationally,” he said.