(L-R) Steve Evans, Cayman Islands Cycling Association Vice President, speaks at the finish line as the award is presented to the first-ever Pirates Week Invitational winner, Christian Vandevelde, as two members of the crowd and Association President Gary Clarke enjoy the moment.

By Wesley Dennis
wesley@caymannetnews.com

The Cayman Islands Cycling Association has been trying to become part of the rotation for international cycling events, in particular as an end-of-season wind down for pro riders.

The Cayman Invitational circuit is just the event to make that splash in the cycling world. The organizers were aiming to spin off 8-10 November, but Hurricane Paloma put a dent into those plans, interfering with the first days of the Pirates Week Invitational Stage Race.

The circuit road race pushed off on Sunday, 9 November with Christian Vandevelde taking the first-ever title. Vandevelde placed fifth at this year Tour de France and “a leader’s jersey guru”, said Steve Evans, the association’s Vice President and web-master.

“With a great atmosphere and fast riding, the spectators really enjoyed the excitement. It was an incredible start to the future of bike racing on Cayman.

“The hurricane may have taken our first two stages but the circuit race was superb for both riders and spectators. And a great atmosphere at the finish line.”

Taking the second and third places were Chris Wherry and Dennis Brooks, respectively.