Belizean Cyclist Kaya Cattouse Suspended for 90 Days Over Alleged Misconduct

Also coming out of the cycling community, are reports of disciplinary action taken against one of the country’s most recognized female cyclists, Kaya Cattouse.  The Cycling Federation of Belize has confirmed that Cattouse has been handed a ninety-day suspension from all sanctioned events, effective immediately. The decision stems from what the Federation describes as “blatant disrespectful behaviour” during the start of the 35th annual PUMA Women’s Cross Country Cycling Classic. According to the Federation, the action was taken after complaints from senior officials and supported by evidence captured during live race coverage.  In its letter dated March 31, the Federation says the use of profanity in a public setting constituted a serious breach of its code of conduct, emphasizing that athletes are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

In a strongly worded response, however, Cattouse says she will not be appealing the suspension, noting that she had already made it clear that Sunday’s race marked her final participation in any Cycling Federation of Belize event.  However, Cattouse is pushing back against what she describes as a “one-sided and misleading narrative,” alleging that the situation was triggered by a breakdown in leadership. She claims that Federation President Glen Flowers had given prior approval for a teammate to participate in the race, only to later fail to stand by that decision, resulting in confusion and public embarrassment on race day.  According to Cattouse, that reversal led to her teammate being denied entry despite prior arrangements and financial commitments made by sponsors.

Cattouse, who has represented Belize in cycling for more than two decades, says her response should be formally recorded to ensure her version of events is not omitted from the official record.