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Foreign competitors participation a big challenge for locals

BY BERNARD Perera

THE local riders at the third annual Rider Cyclo Cross 2005 at Nuwara Eliya today are to face tough challenge. Local riders who were used to ride on a 2 kilometre had to change to a circuit longer than the usual one and also with more obstacles on their way.

The second task they are to face is the competition from foreigners who have flown into compete here in this picturesque track which conforms to international standards. Already fifteen riders have arrived in Nuwara Eliya from United States of America, England, Wales and Holland.

Their participation at this event will be a bonus for Lankans as they get an opportunity of testing their endurance to ride on longer tracks against foreign competitors. This will give them the much wanted exposure as they are to undergo training in preparation for the South Asian Games scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka shortly.

As such the riders competing in the under-19 age group and the open event should come out with all their skills if they are to catch the eyes of the selectors.

A total of ten events are scheduled to be worked off-winners are to receive trophies and cash awards with many more gift packs on offer. Winner of the main event, the open event will be awarded with the Monty Gopallawa Trophy donated by Nuwara Eliya Motor Sports Club.

Over 750 competitors will be seen in action in different age groups. Riders from Nuwara Eliya district will be awarded separate awards as the Nuwara Eliya District Mountain Biking Championship too has been coupled with the Cyclo Cross to add more glamour to the days event.

Monty Gopallawa Governor Central Province will be the chief guest and distribute the awards with guests of honour Janadasa Pieris Chairman ANCL and C. Karunaratne Mayor Nuwara Eliya Municipal Council.