Belize’s cycling community mourns passing of cycling legend Clinton Castillo

Published by [email protected] at May 20, 2025

Posted: Tuesday, May 20, 2025. 8:49 am CST.

Clinton Castillo – Photo Credit: Clinton Castillo/Facebook

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The Cycling Federation of Belize has extended its condolences to the family and friends of Clinton Castillo, an extraordinary cyclist whose legacy will forever be etched in the history of Belizean cycling.

Castillo, who had recently celebrated his 89th birthday on April 16, was born in 1936 and made history at just 16 years old. He became the youngest rider to win the prestigious Holy Saturday Cross Country race in 1953 in a handicapped event that tested the endurance and skill of its competitors. In that edition, which gave junior riders a half-hour head start, Castillo crossed the finish line ahead of four-time champion Jeffrey O’Brien, who, along with the peloton, caught three of the four Under-18 riders but couldn’t reel in Castillo.

O’Brien had won in 1951 and 1952. He went on to win two more titles in 1954 and 1955—his potential five-time championship streak halted by Castillo’s historic triumph.

In 1966, Castillo finished second behind Kenneth Sutherland. His talent and determination carried him to victory once again in 1967 at the age of 31, ahead of Louis Peyrefitte, further cementing his place among Belize’s cycling greats.

“May you Ride in Peace, Champ,” the Cycling Federation of Belize said.

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