The Venezuelan Cycling Federation (FVC) has announced the roster for the team that will represent the neighboring country at the upcoming Pan American Road Cycling Championships in Montería, Colombia, from March 16-22. The roster is notable for its strong presence of cyclists from the state of Táchira, who form the core of the delegation in both the men’s and women’s categories.
In the women’s category, Táchira contributes the majority of the team, led by Lilibeth Chacón, who is making her tenth Pan American appearance. The regional representation is completed by Yeniret Alexandra Roa and Fabiana Candelas (who is competing for the second consecutive year). Johaneth Vargas, at 19 years old, is making her debut at the highest continental event, and the women’s group is rounded out by Verónica Sofía Abreu and newcomer Angy Luna.
In the men’s category, Táchira natives Edwin Yair Torres, who is attending his second consecutive edition, stands out; Francisco Peñuela, following his 11th place finish last year; and the experienced Jorge Abreu, champion of the Vuelta al Táchira and with an outstanding performance in the Vuelta a República Dominicana, who at 35 years old will make his long-awaited debut in the continental competition. They are joined by Leangel Linares (with three previous top-10 finishes), Emmanuel Viloria, and the debutant Yonathan Eugenio.
Miguel Fuentes, Technical Coordinator of the Venezuelan Cycling Federation (FVC) National Teams, emphasized that this team is the product of a professionalized training system. During his remarks on the program “Tiempo de Juego” on Circuito Líder radio, Fuentes extended special recognition to strategists Arlex Méndez and Miguel Ubeto, key members of the technical staff in the riders’ preparation.
The spokesperson also expressed his gratitude for the support of the current FVC authorities and his hope that future administrations will maintain this methodology. “We hope the new authorities will continue this system, as it is the way to guarantee real benefits for cyclists in Venezuela,” Fuentes stated.
Source: With information from Carlos Alexis Rivera Press Office