The Virgin Islands Cycling Federation wrapped up its 2025 season in grand style with the America’s Paradise Challenge, the final and most anticipated race of the year. On Sunday morning, cyclists from St. Croix and St. Thomas lined up in front of the DC Canegata Ballpark to tackle a demanding course and vie for cash prizes sponsored by Bates Trucking.
Elite Division
The small but determined Elite field faced a grueling 55-mile route that climbed nearly every hill on St. Croix’s east end. 2025 Time Trial and Road Cycling Champion Stephen Swanton set the pace early, breaking away from Alex Betancourt and David Morales. Each of the three rode solo for most of the race, with Swanton holding his lead to finish in 2:41:55. Betancourt, returning to competition after a season disrupted by work and illness, finished second in 2:56:29, while Morales battled through two flat tires to take third.
In addition to first-place honors and the top cash prize, Swanton earned gift certificates from Island Life Adventures, the local bike shop, for reaching designated “prime” points first. He also claimed the Strava King of the Mountain title for his climb at Point Udall.
Expert Division
The Expert category delivered one of the day’s tightest finishes. James Bates edged out St. Thomas rider Thomas Barrows in the 45-mile race, finishing in 2:25:01—just five seconds ahead. Scott Marusa crossed the line close behind in 2:25:08 to secure third. Bates also won the prime at Point Udall, while Jerry Remie captured the first at Many Paws Lane.
Elite Women
The Elite Women’s race brought together a strong and diverse group of riders, each trying to stay within reach of defending champion Robin Seila. Seila dominated the 40-mile race from start to finish, earning both the Many Paws Lane prime and the overall win in 2:08:53. Sue Brown finished second in 2:16:06, followed by Kat Browndson in third after pulling away from Kate Barrows in the final ten miles. Esther Ellis suffered a flat that cost her valuable time.
Sport Division
In the 25-mile Sport Division, last year’s winner Ben Garcia once again claimed the top spot, clocking 1:28:06. Newcomer Clinton Nicholas took second in 1:28:28, while Olani Vanterpool—who won the prime sprint at Many Paws Lane—finished third in 1:29:58.
Masters Divisions
Two Masters divisions were contested this year—Masters 55+ and Masters 65+—both completing the 25-mile loop. Howard Jones of St. Thomas led the 55+ field with a time of 1:24:05, followed by Ralph Bartlett in second (and first to reach Many Paws Lane) and Lucien Lake of Mango Tree Riders in third.
In the 65+ group, Chris Dorsey, age 71, delivered a commanding performance, finishing first in 1:31:59. Wally Bostwick of St. Thomas was second in 1:40:33, and Errol Chichester surged ahead of Brian O’Reilly for third.
Women’s 25-Mile Division
Cyclists in the women’s 25-mile race, ranging in age from 42 to 65, showcased both camaraderie and competitive spirit. Allison Janusziewicz claimed the prime at Many Paws Lane, but it was Bridget Klein who powered ahead on the challenging climbs of Grassy Point and Yacht Club Hills to win in 1:33:06. Catherine Seguin placed second in 1:35:24, and Janusziewicz rounded out the podium in third.
Junior Division
The Junior riders covered a 15-mile course, turning at Union and Mount Washington instead of looping the full east end. KoleBert Daisley, Vedant Mittal, and Randy Williams stayed close early, sprinting toward the Many Paws Lane prime. Daisley of GHCDS surged ahead to win the prime and held his lead to finish first in 55:15, with Mittal, a senior at GHCDS close behind in 55:42. Despite battling two flat tires, VICF member Williams completed the course proudly in third.
Sponsors and Support
The America’s Paradise Challenge, now in its third year, was made possible by the generous support of Diageo USVI as the major sponsor, along with contributions from NAPA Auto Parts, Flemings’ Transport, Carlos Furniture, Leatherback Brewing Company, Island Life Adventures, and Dragon Engraving.
The Virgin Islands Cycling Federation also expressed gratitude to the Virgin Islands Police Department, Department of Public Works, and Department of Sports, Parks & Recreation for their assistance.
The 2026 cycling season will kick off with an open group ride on January 11. For more information about cycling in the Virgin Islands, call 340-643-5050.
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