Autistic cyclist, Young Phil Bertino was the toast of fans at this year’s Teshie Homowo Cycling Challenge on Saturday when he joined over 70 professional cyclists for the event.
Young Phil, who was the guest rider finished his 76km race in a time of 2:45:33secs with an average speed of 27.56km/h, and received massive cheers for his effort.
The cycling sensation was presented with a special trophy, medal and jersey for his effort.
Speaking after the event, Founder of the Liztino Center for Children with Special Needs and mother of Young Phil, Mrs Angel Bertino expressed appreciation to organizers for providing the platform for her ward to exhibit his talent.
Mrs Bertino who also sponsored the event stressed the need to expose children with autism to physical activities such as cycling.
She urged the public to accept such children and support them to grow and become responsible in society.
The organizer of the challenge, Nathaniel Sowah Agoe commended Phil and all thecyclists for showing up for 17th edition of the event.
“We are glad to have Young Phil on board as well as other cyclists who ensured a very successful and incident free event,” he stayed.
The main 90km criteria race was won by Ghana’s top cyclist, Frank Akuffo with Frank Quaye and Prince Kudufia settling for the second and third positions, respectively.
They received trophies, medals and attractive cash prizes for their efforts.
The first 10 cyclists also received cash prizes while past winners of the Homowo Cycling Challenge also had medals.
Young Phil’s coach Abdul Rahman also received a medal for his efforts while Clementina Ayoung and Joseph Neequaye were adjudged the Best Female and Youngest Cyclists of the competition respectively.
Cycling Caption: Young Phil(second left), supported by his mother (right) to receive his prizes from organizers
BY MICHAEL D.ABAYATEYE
