ASEAN bikefest revs off today in Danao

CEBU, Philippines -  The country's top mountainbikers face a daunting task as they defend their turf against foreign rivals in the kick off leg of the ASEAN Mountainbike Cup Series today in Manlayag-Patag, Danao City.

Among those tapped to fight for the flag and country are Philippine National Games top performers Niño Surban, March MacQuinn Aleonar and Alvin Benosa along with Edwin Nacario Jr., and Leopoldo Japitana in the men's elite division.

The Pinoy bets will be dealing with Singapore's Tay Chin Seng and Tan Hong Chun, Germany's Lars Droste, Indonesians Bandi Sugito and Chandra Rafsnazani and Malaysia's Daniel Frisco.

In the distaff side, the Iloilo-native Mellisa Jane Jaroda will make her debut on the international stage along with Avegail Rombaon under the elite class. They are expected to face tough challenge from the likes of Kusmawati Yazid and Wilhelmina of Indonesia and Natahsya Soon and Queenelisi Ligadu of Malaysia.

Cebuano riders John Rene Mier, Luis Miguel Maximo and Warren Vinan will showcase their wares in the men's open.

Aside from the elite and open class, several other classes will also be contested in the cross-country event.

A downhill competition will also be featured, with veteran Joey Barba and his cousin Eleazar Barba, Jr. leading the charge for the national team. Joey Barba is excited to be back in Danao, the place where he started his cycling career.

Aside from cash prizes and medals, the riders also compete for points needed in their quest for overall supremacy in this two-round tilt.

The event is supported by the province of Cebu headed by Governor Hilario Davide, Vice Governor Agnes Magpale, Provincial Board Members Jude Sybico, Miguel Magpale, and Ivy Durano-Meca, Shimano, Cube Cycles, Smart, Rudy Project, Endurace, Air 21, ASAP Advertising, Ayala Center Cebu, YKK Trading, Bikeology, Prince Warehouse, The Brick, CycleLogic, Congressman Ace Durano, Danao City Mayor Ramonito D. Durano III, and Vice Mayor Red Durano. (FREEMAN)