Mitchell prevails in ‘Dawn of a New Era’ 6 laps Race Walk affair

Oct 08, 2008 Sports

Rudolph Mitchell clocked a time of 55minutes 38 seconds, in the process embarrassing a field of youngsters far younger than himself to win the ‘Dawn of a New Era” 6 laps Race Walk around the inner circuit of the National Park, when the Cavaliers Sports and Tour Club (CS&TC) staged that event Sunday last.

Randolph Mitchell (centre) displays his prize with second place finisher Jonathan Fagundes (left) and third place O’Neil Joseph.

Jonathan Fagundes clocked 55 minutes 41 seconds to claim the second spot while O’Neil Joseph sealed the final podium spot in 57 minutes 31 seconds.

The 46-year-old race walker created history when he won the event, in the process capturing his 80th consecutive local title. Mitchell demonstrated superb technique and grit from the onset when he set off at a furious pace. He was closely trailed by a determined Jonathan Fagundes who had earlier promised to stage an upset.

By the time the racers had completed three laps it was evident that Mitchell would have had to pull off all the stops to defeat Fagundes who by now was matching his every step. By now the front-runners were Mitchell, Fagundes and O’Neil. The intense pace set by these three lapped the other contestants and reduced the other members of the race to mere participants.

Fagundes and Mitchell hit the starting line simultaneously at the end of the 5th lap and a truly entertaining finished was envisaged. They both hit the homestretch neck to neck but it was here that Mitchell called on his experience. He began to stretch his legs, swinging his hands in a rhythmic flow that saw him through to the finish line merely three seconds before Fagundes.

In his post-race remarks Mitchell thanked the sponsors, Minister of Public Service Jennifer Westford and Guyana National Shipping Corporation for their kind gesture. He blamed the absence of corporate intervention as the major bugbear to his development and is subsequently requesting sponsorship from other corporate entities.

The lone female that participated in the race, Donna Ramkissoon held her own to the end and was the recipient of a trophy for her efforts. (Michael Benjamin)