Cris Joven upbeat in big Ronda Pilipinas 2018 cycling bid

MANILA, Philippines — Cris Joven exudes confidence as he vows to come up with a strong finish in the Ronda Pilipinas 2018 presented by LBC, which fires off this weekend in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

Joven finished third behind Jan Morales and Rudy Roque in last year’s edition of the annual tour but hinted at a solid crack at the crown with better preparation and motivation.

“Compared to last year, I’m better prepared now so hopefully I could contend and challenge them again,” said Joven, who will anchor Team Army-Bicycology Shop in the 12-stage tour beginning in Vigan Saturday and ending in Filinvest, Alabang on March 18.

He will also be backstopped by veteran campaigners Alfie Catalan, Merculio Ramos Jr., Marvin Tapic, Reynaldo Navarro and Alvin Benosa as they challenge the big guns like Morales and former champions Santy Barnachea of Team Franzia and Iris Valenzuela of CCN Superteam.