At first glance, Grand Cayman may not seem to be a cyclist’s paradise. After all, it lacks the mountains that seem to play such a pivotal role in major international races like the Tour de France, while the small size of all three islands do not present many options when it comes to selecting a training route.
However, with year round warm weather, and quiet roads at least once you get out to the Eastern Districts, Cayman boasts a thriving cycling community.
As a zero impact sport, at least at long as you remain upright, cycling is an excellent option for anyone looking to build some fitness or lose weight, while at the same time allowing you to see parts of the island that you would otherwise only see as a blur while driving, or not see at all.
However, although cycling alone is a great way to gain some fitness and clear your mind, cycling can be a very social activity if done as part of a training group. Granted, most folks lose their chatty nature once the pace lifts outside their comfort zone, but it all comes back at the coffee stop and after the ride.
At the heart of Cayman’s cycling scene is the Cayman Islands Cycling Association. The association organises local cycling events as well as promoting all forms of cycling in Cayman.
Key to the social aspect of cycling are the numerous training groups on Island.
The most established training group departs from the Grand Harbour parking lot at 7am on Sunday mornings for a ride out towards East End and along the Queen’s Highway before a quick refreshment stop for the group to reform and cyclists to fill their water bottles. From there it is back to George Town along Frank Sound Road.
A more recent addition to the scene is the very popular coffee ride, which takes place every second and fourth Sunday of the month.
This ride features a much more social riding speed than the regular Sunday morning group, as well as a coffee stop so newcomers can get to know other cyclists on Island.
The rides also focus on group riding etiquette and safety, with more experienced cyclists sharing tips on all aspects of cycling. They will also be more than happy to explain why cyclists wear those tight shorts and shave their legs.
Of course, the competitive side of cycling is not neglected either and the association organises numerous races on Island, the most popular of which is the Cayman Classic, a series of five races that take place on consecutive weekends through may.
Featuring categories for men, ladies, veterans and juniors, the series aims to build wide participation in the sport while at the same time giving the more competitive cyclists the opportunity to see just where they stand when compared to the other top cyclists.
For more information on cycling in Cayman, visit
caymancycling.com