Bermuda cyclist Caitlin Conyers debut Commonwealth Games campaign ended in bitter disappointment after she was ultimately denied the opportunity to compete.

After being forced out of the women’s time-trial on Thursday, having tested positive for Covid-19 in the days leading up to the race, there were high hopes that the lone female competitor of Bermuda’s four-member cycling contingent would be fit to compete in yesterday’s road race.

However, as her rivals were taking to the start line yesterday morning in St Nicholas’ Park, Warwick, Conyers was once again omitted from the race with the Bermuda Olympic Association confirming she had not received clearance to compete.

“Caitlin Conyers did not start the road cycling race this morning in Warwick,” the statement read. “While she is no longer symptomatic for Covid, she had yet to receive a clearance from the Games organisation testing facility.”

This was the first acknowledgement by the BOA that Conyers had been stricken with the virus.

Dominique Mayho, the Bermuda team coach, spoke of his disappointment for Conyers, who was also denied the opportunity to compete at the Road World Championships in Belgium last year, after testing positive for Covid on the eve of departure.

“We are all really disappointed she couldn’t compete,” Mayho said. “I know how hard she’s worked to come back from injury earlier in the summer.

“It would’ve been great to see her compete at such a high-level competition and prove that she belongs with these women.

“I know she will come back stronger after this and finish the season off strong. Her major goals are still ahead, so I know she’ll work hard and achieve them.”

Conyers was not available for comment.