BMW concludes 2012 BOSS Ironman Challenge VII

MANILA, Philippines - Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC), the official importer and distributor of BMW vehicles and BMW Motorrad in the Philippines, awards the successful finishers of the 2012 BOSS Ironman Challenge after conquering a grueling 1,200 kilometer loop around Luzon in 24 hours. Over 250 participants attempted the challenge, however 160 successfully finished.

“BMW is proud to support the 2012 BOSS Ironman Challenge VII and we hope all the participants had a joyful riding experience. It is a commendable event that provides the opportunity for riders to test their skills and endurance while keeping safe riding/driving in mind,” remarked ACC Executive Director Glen Dasig.

Organized by BMW Owners Society of Saferiders (BOSS Club), the only motorcycle club in the Philippines recognized by the BMW Clubs International Council, the annual event began in 2006 as a motorcycle event, but eventually allowed car enthusiasts to join after increased popularity and entries.

The ride started at the Balintawak Home Depot with several checkpoints through Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Viscaya, Isabela, Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Baguio, Pangasinan, and Tarlac before finally ending in Stotsenberg Hotel, Clark, Pampanga. Though not designed to be a race, finishing the 1,200-kilometer loop proves equally satisfying.

“There are neither trophies given nor rankings announced, but to successfully be named a BOSS Ironman is a priceless feat. It’s a display of endurance and impeccable riding/driving techniques. It is no surprise after all that among the 250 entries, only 160 made it to the final destination,” said Teng Sorreta, the BOSS Ironman Challenge VII Committee Chairman.

Although the event is not a race, there is an unspoken satisfaction in being able to arrive at the final stop the earliest. This year, first to finish in the car category was Elbert Cuenca with the superior diesel powered BMW X1, with a recorded time of 14 hours and 19 minutes. Cuenca also finished second last year, using a gasoline powered BMW X1.

The BMW X1 diesel variant is part of the BMW X Series, which still proves to be the best-selling SAV in the premium segment capturing 33% of the premium SAV segment.

Meanwhile, in the Motorcycle category Joey Almeda, Enteng Gonzales, Max Kienle, Hubert Soriano and Nani Pascoguin arrived early in Stotsenberg Hotel. First 4 riders were on a BMW R1200 GS Adventure while Nani was on a BMW S1000 RR.