BMW, BOSS ramp up call for road safety

MANILA, Philippines - In line with efforts to advocate safe riding and camaraderie within the motorsports community, the BOSS IronMan Motorcycle Challenge marked its tenth consecutive staging last January 23. Organized by the BMW Owners Society of Saferiders (BOSS), in collaboration with BMW Motorrad, the 24-hour challenge flagged off at Hotel Stotsenberg, Clark, Pampanga and continued across Northern Luzon. The annual event, which is open to motorcycle riders and car drivers alike, attracted over 300 participants who treaded a prescribed route of 1,200 kilometers in individual and group categories.

Conquering the challenge

The endurance run commenced on the night of January 23 and passed through six mandatory checkpoints, namely Marcos Highway, Baguio; Vigan, Ilocos Sur; Magapit Bridge, Cagayan Valley; Tumauini, Isabela; and  San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija before capping the journey at Hotel Stotsenberg in Clark, Pampanga.

Participants chose to complete the course individually in the Big Bikes and Car divisions or enter with a motorcycle team in the Group of 10 division.  

According to BOSS IronMan Challenge Committee (BICC) Chairman Petchoy Morales III and BOSS president Bernard De San Jose, the BOSS IronMan Motorcycle Challenge is a test of stamina, road navigation skills, and riding management. Ample physical preparation and timely vehicle inspection to prevent any accidents are highly encouraged among all entrants. 

To ensure the safety and security of the challengers, proper documentation of the driver and vehicle from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) as well as essential riding gear and motorcycle equipment were required for qualification. Only motorcycles with an engine displacement of at least 400cc and cars in good working condition were allowed to join the event.  

Celebrating a decade of riding pleasure

Since its conception in 2005, the BOSS IronMan Motorcycle Challenge has gathered various (Filipino- OUT) motorcycle and car groups to advocate not only responsible driving, but also to build local tourism. By showcasing the country’s scenic spots throughout the route, the event aims to spark enthusiasm and promote the Philippines as a road travel destination among participants.

“We are proud to have inspired our fellow riders and car drivers to understand the immeasurable value of safety on the road while establishing a platform for tourism in the country. As we celebrate this first decade milestone, we hope to continue providing our riders and drivers a holistic experience and being of service to the motoring public,” adds Morales.

An official briefing to acquaint registered challengers on the event route and guidelines was held last January 7 at Autohaus BMW in E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue, Libis, Quezon City.

The event concluded with an awarding ceremony for winners on the morning of January 25, also at Hotel Stotsenberg.