Cycling fraternity receives major ‘boots’ from local club

The formal handover took place on Thursday, January 8, at the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat headquarters on the outskirts of Old Harbour town. Beneficiaries included the Jamaica Cycling Federation (JCF), Simmonds High Velocity Cycling Club, One Piece Cycling Club, Dillies Cycle World, and others.

Kamar Jordan, First Vice President of the Jamaica Cycling Federation, praised the Old Harbour-based club for its leadership in reviving the sport. 

“Receiving these shoes can help persons who want to enter the sport… motivate or enhance them,” Jordan said. “We really have to give flowers where it’s due to the Elevation Cycling Club for setting the tone and leading in Jamaica as the best cycling club when it comes to the development of youth.”

Since its founding in 2021, Elevation Cycling Club has become widely regarded as one of the island’s most successful clubs, currently boasting three national senior elite road champions: Barrington Bailey, Jerome Forrest, and Melvin McFarlane - as well as 19-year-old prodigy Jaequan Dixon, a three-time national junior champion and current national under-23 titleholder.

Andrew Hancel, an executive member of Elevation Cycling Club, highlighted the collaborative effort that made the donation possible. 

“This special donation was made possible by the efforts of our president, Velana Creary, and our partner, Major Taylor Iron Riders,” Hancel stated. “We recognize very early that the sport is in need of massive support, and where possible we will seek to play our part.”

He emphasized the high cost of cycling footwear as a barrier to entry for many aspiring riders. 

“The minimum price for a pair of cycling shoes is US$100, while cleats worn by elite riders cost up to US$500 per pair. Very, very few riders here in Jamaica, especially those trying to get into the sport, can afford this.”

Creary, who is overseas, paid homage to its US partner in a statement: “On behalf of the Elevation Cycling Club, I extend my sincere gratitude to Major Taylor Iron Riders for your generous sponsorship of cycling shoes and cleats. Your support is more than a gift — it is a valuable investment in our future and a beacon of hope for the athletes we serve.

“Since your sponsorship began, we have witnessed remarkable growth in our riders. Your contribution has provided them with greater opportunities and created an environment where they can develop and thrive. It is through the commitment of partners like you that we can make a profound and positive impact on these young athletes.

“Your sponsorship helps cover essential equipment needs and furthers our broader mission to foster sustainable progress within our community. It is truly uplifting to know we have your partnership.”

Merrington Hall, founder of the One Piece Cycling Club in Hayes, Clarendon, expressed deep appreciation for the contribution. 

“It has so far enabled the club to start getting some more youngsters into the system,” said Hall, who received 10 pairs. “With all these donations, it will go a far way.”

Kevin Dillon, owner of Dillies Cycle World in Spanish Town, shared similar sentiments. 

“Young youths always come into my bicycle shop, and when they visited I can give them a pair of shoes. A lot of them can’t afford it, and this can mean a lot to help boost them and encourage them to ride.”

The shoes were distributed as follows:

• Jamaica Cycling Federation: 25 pairs
• Dillies Cycle World: 16 pairs
• One Piece Cycling Club: 9 pairs
• Simmonds High Velocity Cycling Club: 10 pairs
• Elevation Cycling Club: 22 pairs

The donation marks a tangible investment in the future of Jamaican cycling, addressing a critical need for equipment and inspiring a new generation of riders. As the sport continues to rebuild locally, initiatives like this are seen as vital to sustaining growth and accessibility.