Cross Country Cycling Classic - Junior, Female and Other Classics

Junior, Female and Other Classics

As the popularity of the Cross Country classic became apparent, the local Association hastened to broaden its appeal. The Junior and Female versions of the event began in the 1990s and rode on the same day as the big race, though over a shorter distance and finishing earlier. The early years of the female Classic were dominated by Camille Solis, who won six titles, the most for any Classic participant, male or female. She retired in 1999 and female cycling stalled until its revival with a new core of cyclists. The current female champion after the conclusion of the 2007 race is Brenda Aguayo of Mexico and Byron Pope is the current Junior Male Champion. The female Classic, part of a list of annual events, now runs in May on Mother's Day, while the junior Classic runs a week before the big one. More recent additions include special races for Masters' and Non-elite (unregistered) cyclists.

When the female versions of the event began in the 1990s, the females covered a much greater distance of the race than is currently covered today. The female's version began at approximately the same time (5am), and saw the females travelling from mile 25 on the Western Highway to San Ignacio, and making the return journey. As the first few years went by, the males would catch the women at a closer distance to Belize City each year they rode. While the males would always finish first, there was no short of excitement when the female contenders would enter the stadium as the crowd erupted with cheer. While Solis would often emerge victorious, she faced a number of solid contenders from both Belize and the United States. Due to Solis' efforts female cycling in Belize is slowly gaining broader appeal and most Elite teams now have at least one female rider on the roster.