Latest update June 1st, 2026 12:37 AM
Geron Williams wins John Basilone Memorial Cycling Classic on 24th Birthday
Guyanese Pro rider Geron Williams, who is competing on the USA circuit, on Saturday last won the John Basilone Memorial Cycling Classic 30 mile race on his 24th birthday. The race was contested on day one of the 2015 Tour of Somerville Cycling Series.
Geron Williams (centre) celebrates on the podium.
Representing Champion System Stan’s Notubes, Williams described the win as an “Absolute Surreal Moment” for him since it was the first time he competed on his birthday, a win making it even better.
According to the Williams who earlier this month placed second at the 16th annual Turkey Hill Country Classic/Pennsylvania State Road Race Championships, a 65 miles contest, the John Basilone Memorial race covered a course that had six corners, each being 1km in length each.
He said when he looked at the course initially; he underestimated how technical it was.
“When the race got under way I was caught off guard by quite a few of the corners but managed to relax and got my head wrapped around the task at hand. Throughout the race they were a lot of failed attempts to establish a break.”
Approaching the half way mark in the race, Williams said he was harboring thoughts that the race would have been decided via a bunch finish; with in mind, the Guyanese cyclist said he started to ride as close to the front as possible to ensure he would have a chance to be in the top three at the finish.
“As we crossed the line with three laps to go there was a slowing at the front and a group of riders passed suddenly and I was 20 wheels back. Staying calm, I was able to work my way back into the top 10.”
The peloton was back together for the final lap with everyone trying to position for the finish.
“I exited the last corner in 3rd place, the sprint was in full swing, for a split second I was worried I wouldn’t get by the 2 rider in time since the finish was only about 150m from the last corner. With a few hard kicks and a final lunge for the line I was able to grab the win by the width of 2 tires. Close and exciting, great entertainment for spectators and a surreal win for me.”
On day two yesterday, Williams placed 6th, winning a bunch sprint. (F.Wilson)
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