BGC Cycle Philippines staged a very successful inaugural event the other week, with this exciting highlight: having the chance to ride alongside Robbie McEwen, a three-time Tour de France green jersey winner!
McEwen, the best sprinter of the ’02, ’04, and ’06 editions of the Tour de France, is Cycle Asia’s ambassador, and thousands of cycling enthusiasts jumped at the opportunity to bike with him.
BGC Cycle Philippines follows the tradition of the Cycle Asia events in the region. Cycle Asia is a network of premier cycling events that offers riders the rare opportunity to bike in major Asian cities.
The event featured cyclists of all ages and abilities in The Tricycle Ride, The Kids Ride, The Community Ride (20km and 40km), and The Challenge (40km) that included McEwen.
McEwen also helped out typhoon Yolanda victims by donating his 2002 Tour de France green jersey, with the proceeds of the worldwide online auction going to the relief efforts.
“We have our share of natural disasters in Australia so I feel for the victims of the typhoon. I didn’t have to think twice to say yes, I wanna be a part,†he shared.
With the thousands of participants, the organizers are already looking forward to an even bigger event next year!
McEwen was surprised at the numbers. “We had 2,300 bikers in this event. In the Gold Coast, where I do a biking event, we’re happy with 1,000! I think with a smooth, well-run event, word will spread,†he said.