115 bikers pedal for peaceful polls
The weather was just right when mountain bike enthusiasts set out for a 12-town, 135-kilometer race yesterday morning for peaceful and credible barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.
One hundred fifteen bikers from 23 teams participated in yesterday's race, which was organized by Manila Broadcasting Company's Aksyon Radyo-Iloilo and the Barbarian Cycling Club (BCC).
It's our way of praying for a credible and peaceful elections in the barangays, John Mandario of Aksyon Radyo-Iloilo told The News Today.
The participants set off from the town of Sta. Barbara, traveled up to Calinog in central Iloilo, then to Passi City, down to Pototan, then Mina. From there they proceeded to Janiuay all the way to Iloilo City.
"So far, the race went well. As you can see there are already finishers," he said. As of presstime, however, the results of the team-event has yet to be announced by the organizers.
Enthusiasts of all ages, literally, participated in the annual race, already on its third year.
The youngest was a 15-year-old, with 70-year-old Dr. Ramon Mirasol being the oldest.
Lone female biker, Alexandra Ganzon said she had a great time. The 21-year-old former triathlete from the Western Institute of Technology finished third last year.
About a week ago, she was in a hospital for dengue. She checked out of the hospital three days before the race.
It's a good thing we practice everyday, she said.
"Although I didn't finish, I had a great time," she said. Ganzon punctured her tire in Dueñas town. She was forced to retire from the race by the time she reached Pototan.
Being the lone female participant, she enjoyed the extra attention and care her male colleagues gave to her.
"A lot of them offered me waters and energy drinks," she said chuckling.