Malaysia for the World B cycling championships -- only to be told he was too old to compete.

Officials at the race site at Ipoh, 100 miles north of Kuala Lumpur, were concerned when they saw 58-year-old Payne's documentation, claiming there must have been an error over his date of birth.

But Payne, one of a three-man team representing the Island in the championships, insisted he knew his own age and refused to budge.

Ted Gray, representative for small islands at the event -- which is for all but the top 12 cycling nations -- was called to a meeting with officials to resolve the issue.

Greg Hopkins, Bermuda's national cycling coach, was told about the mix-up during a late-night phone call from Payne, who will take part in tomorrow's time trial along with top local amateur Steve Sterritt.

"The main problem came when officials saw Jeff's date of birth on his entry and asked him if it was a mistake,'' said Hopkins. "It caused quite a stir and they were not going to let him ride but it seems to have been resolved and he will ride.'' But he added: "It is exceptionally unusual for someone of his age to be riding at the speeds you get in such an event. But on his performances this year he has earned his right to go to the competition. He won't be shown up or embarrassed.

"I don't expect him to win, but at the end of the day, Jeff will have the last laugh -- he is really special.'' The problems didn't end there for the Bermudian team: the third member, Mike Lee, suffered a mild bout of food poisoning during the journey and will miss the 40K time trial.

"I think it was the airport and airline food coupled with all the travel,'' said Hopkins. "He wasn't feeling too sharp when he arrived.'' Sterritt, who had been prepared primarily for next Wednesday's 146K road race, will now ride the time trial in his place. "It certainly won't do him any harm to get a feel for the competition,'' added Hopkins.

Conditions at the venue, which will be used for next year's Commonwealth Games, are reportedly very tough with temperatures around the 90 degree mark and very high humidity. But the courses are said to be in good condition.

A total of 31 nations are taking part in the competition.

JEFF PAYNE -- race officials questioned his date of birth.