The Ghana Cycling Association (GCA) has stepped up its search for a formidable team to represent the country at next year's All Africa Games slated for the Nigerian capital, Abuja.

As part of exercise for Africa's showpiece, the association last weekend organised the "La Route de Kumasi" which attracted 90 cyclists from 14 clubs. They were from Accra, Koforidua, Kumasi, Sunyani and Tamale.

The cyclists competed in three categories - the individual time trial, team time trial and Criterion. In the individual time trial, Henry Djangman of the Seven River Park Club in Accra, scaled above his colleagues while City Migro Club also of Accra emerged winner in the team trial category.

John Zormelo of the River Park who rose to stardom at last year's COWBELL sponsored cycling races held in Accra, was the toast of the fans when he exhibited great resilience and endurance to power past the rest of 89 competitors.

In all, 20 cyclists were presented with cash prizes and products from Wonder Foods Limited (COWBELL). The French Embassay under the Ghana-France Co-operation sponsored the programme with support from COWBELL.

Mr Francis Kpesenu, Secretary General of the Association later told the GNA Sports that the association is billed to organise the Tour du Ghana competition early December, which is by far the biggest event on the cycling calendar.

He said the event would enable the association to pencil some names down and together with those selected during the La route de Kumasi would embark on a series of training programmes before the All Africa Games next year.