Bermuda’s representatives at the Caribbean Junior Cycling Championships in St Martin endured challenging conditions at the two-day competition.

On Saturday, they took part in the individual time-trial, where the morning was characterised by thunder and lightning, creating wet and tricky conditions on the roads. As the storm passed, the roads were semi-dry by the time the Bermuda riders hit the course, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already demanding race.

Charlotte Millington, 17, secured a credible fourth position competing as one of the youngest in the junior category. Skye Ferguson, the other female member of the team, was fifth in the pre-junior class.

Andrew Thomas and Zachery Moniz were, at the age of 15, both among the youngest male competitors in the pre-junior male category. The two showed great determination and skill competing against some of the best talent from across the Caribbean.

“The competition level at these championships is exceptionally high, with top cyclists from major cycling nations like Guadeloupe and Martinique participating,’’ said Deborah Titterton Narraway, a Bermuda Bicycle Association executive committee member.

“Despite this, our Bermuda team demonstrated their potential and resilience, making their mark on the international stage.

“The BBA is extremely proud of our team’s efforts and determination in such challenging conditions. We look forward to watching them grow and achieve even greater success in the years to come.”

In yesterday’s road races, conducted in brutally hot conditions, Thomas and Moniz, despite being dropped by the main field in the boys’ juvenile competition, continued to race with determination, gaining valuable experience against a strong field.

The race was intense from the start, with powerhouse teams like Puerto Rico, Guadeloupe and Martinique launching relentless attacks. By the second lap, Yandel De Jesus from Puerto Rico managed to break away from the field, executing a solo effort that saw him take the win after maintaining his lead for the rest of the race.

In the junior female race, Millington faced tough competition, with rival teams fielding multiple riders. The Bermudian rider stayed with the lead group and even managed to break away at one point, only to be reeled in by the pack.

It came down to a sprint finish, with Guadeloupe’s Emma Glorianne taking the win and Millington finishing a commendable fifth place.

Ferguson competed in the female juvenile race, where she fought hard to stay with the main pack, led by the victorious Anémone Macabre, of Martinique. While she lost contact early, the 16-year-old displayed some real courage by continuing to race to the finish line.

Darren Glasford, the team manager, saw the trip to St Martin as an eye-opening experience for the island’s cyclists.

“This year's championship provided invaluable experience for our young athletes, who will take the lessons learnt and aim to improve on their performances in future competitions,’’ he said.