Derrick Chavarria in Turkey – Photo Credit: Derrick Chavarría/Facebook
By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Belizean U23 standout Derrick Chavarría has confirmed his move into the UCI Continental ranks, joining the China Chermin Cycling Continental Pro Team and making his professional debut on 25 February in Turkey. The achievement follows a year of steady international competition across Central America and the Caribbean, where Chavarría built the form and consistency that positioned him for the jump to the Continental level.
The double gold medallist at both the Belize National Championships and the Caribbean Championships in the U23 category said the Continental contract represents years of sacrifice, belief, and disciplined work.
In announcing the move, Chavarría said becoming a Continental cyclist is “a dream I’ve chased for years—one built on sacrifice, belief, and relentless work.” To mark the achievement, he launched a limited‑edition shirt campaign that he describes as representing “the journey” rather than the destination. Proceeds will support The Chavarría’s Family Campaign, an initiative aimed at helping ambitious young Belizean cyclists access equipment, guidance, and opportunities.
His coach, Ken Gokool, said Derrick’s rise has been driven by a structured, data‑informed programme that sharpened his sprinting power, race intelligence, and resilience during a year of frequent regional competition. Those performances attracted international scouts and opened the door to his first Continental contract, where he now races alongside another developing rider from Ethiopia under the same coaching guidance.
Chavarría’s move adds to Belize’s growing presence in international cycling. Oscar Quiroz previously rode with the Miami Blazers, and Kaya Cattouse spent two seasons racing with LA Sweat—important steps that helped establish a pathway for Belizean riders seeking opportunities abroad.
The shirt campaign, available in black or white and offered in sizes from XS to XL, is intended to turn one achievement into broader support for the next generation. Chavarría said the initiative is “more than merch”—it is a way to convert his own breakthrough into “many dreams in motion.”
Photo Credit: Derrick Chavarría/Facebook
The post Belize’s Derrick Chavarría becomes UCI Continental cyclist, debuts in Turkey, and launches shirt campaign to support young riders appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Derrick Chavarria in Turkey – Photo Credit: Derrick Chavarría/Facebook By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Belizean U23 standout Derrick Chavarría has confirmed his move into the UCI Continental ranks, joining the China Chermin Cycling Continental Pro Team and making his professional debut on 25 February in Turkey. The achievement follows a year of steady international competition across
The post Belize’s Derrick Chavarría becomes UCI Continental cyclist, debuts in Turkey, and launches shirt campaign to support young riders appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
