P200T bounty at stake in Monterrazas bikefest

CEBU, Philippines- It's just the first time that they're hosting an event and they're doing it in style, something that will surely create a stir in the local sports scene.

In what is by far the biggest event in Cebu cycling history in terms of prize fund, Genvi Development Corporation dangles close to P200,000 in prizes to the top performers of the 1st Monterrazas de Cebu Road and Mountainbike Challenge.

The two-day spectacle kicks off with the 4.5-kilometer mountainbike race on October 11. The following day is alloted for the 5.2km road bike challenge. Both races will have their start and finish line strategically located at the second highest elevation of Monterrazas de Cebu, The Residences at the Peaks, ensuring a breath-taking view of the city, the mountains, and the sea as the bikers make their way through the uphill climbs and downhill terrrain.

"When the idea of holding this event was brought to me, without any second thought, without batting an eyelash, I said yes because we will also do our share for the health and wellness of our brothers in our community," said lawyer Dindo Perez, president of Genvi, the developer of Monterrazas, in a press conference yesterday at Laguna Garden Cafe. "Although it's just our first time, we will try our best to make it a pleasurable and more enjoyable race for everyone."

"This will be our annual activity as part of our contribution to Cebu sports," said Genvi Sales and Marketing Officer Engr. Zeny Quibranza.

The race, sanctioned by the Unified Cycling of Central Philippines-Cebu Chapter, features eight categories - the open elite, seniors (50-above), juniors, executive (PRC license holders), fat riders, golden riders (60-above), women's and beginners.

The biggest chunk of prize money will go to the open elite division, with the overall champion getting a P10,000 paycheck. The second to fifth placers will receive P10,000, P8, 000, P6,000, P4,000 and P2,000, respective. Aside from cash, the top five finishers per category will also receive trophies and medals.

Race director Joe Deresas said this early, at least 20 pedal-pushers from the cities of Tanjay and Dumaguete in Negros Oriental as well as in Cadiz City in Negros Occidental have already confirmed their participation in the cash-rich tilt that is expected to draw elite racers from all over the country including members of the Philippine Team led by Cebu's homegrown talents in John Rene Mier, Niño Surban and Marites Bitbit.

Deresas has also invited athletes from Manila, Bohol, Ormoc, Butuan and other areas in the Visayas and Mindanao to challenge the best racers Cebu could offer.

"We're expecting over a 200 hundred bikers per day to join in the race that offers the biggest prize in local cycling history," said Deresas, a champion cyclist during his prime.

Registration fee is pegged at P350 for both races inclusive of cycling jersey, certificates, and morning snack and lunch. Entry forms are available at the Philippine Sports Commission-7 office (254-7786), Cycle Logic at Parkmall (238-3513), and YKK Trading (255-8853).

For more information, one may keep in touch with Joe Deresas at 0917-7309986, 0921-5133272 or 266-7875. (FREEMAN)