… National Coach Mohamed remembers Jude Bentley

THE sudden death of Jude Bentley has shocked the cycling fraternity and messages of condolences have been pouring in.
The national cyclist, who represented Guyana at the Commonwealth Games in 2006, was killed in an accident yesterday morning.

Bentley, of Jude’s Bike Shop on Robb Street, was more than just a cyclist; he was an ambassador of the sport and had helped countless young riders over the years.
President of Carlton Wheelers Cycling Club, Hassan Mohamed, said that Bentley, who was a member of the club, was “a perfect human being and a champion of cycling.”

He noted that he was altruistic in nature, especially towards children who would visit his shop.
“This is an unfortunate thing to happen to such a talent.”
General Secretary of the Guyana Cycling Federation, Malcolm Sonaram, called the death “a great loss to the cycling community.”

He too spoke about Bentley’s big heart and his assistance to young cyclists.
“As an individual, he has given a lot to cycling and cyclists. I personally witness many times that children would come into the bike shop and they would not have money to buy chains, tyres and Jude would help them out.”

Bentley, who also represented Guyana in Trinidad, Barbados and Cuba at meets, was all geared up for the 2020 cycling season and had purchased a US$6000 bike to compete. His first competition with the fast bike was expected to take place yesterday in the National Park.

After authorities and cyclists found out about the death, they decided to hold a lap around the park for their fallen comrade and one minute of silence. Out of respect for Bentley, they also called off the event.

Sonaram, who is also vice-president of Carlton Wheelers, said that more must be done to protect cyclists on the road.

“Why is it we have to wait for something of this magnitude to happen before we address the safety of cyclists? We need to sit down with all road-users: taxi drivers, general road-users. They need to understand that everybody has a right to use the road…. You got to get serious about this or you’ll continue to lose lives.”

Mohamed added that some persons have already spoken about holding an annual competition in honour of Bentley, but he said that it would depend on the approval of his family.
The category one cyclist, who was set to turn 42 later this month, leaves to mourn six children, including his youngest son, who turned one yesterday.