Challenging route mapped out for Tour Pilipinas qualifiers

The Philippine National Cycling Association (PNCA) said the upcoming Tour Pilipinas 2003 presented by Air21 promises to put to the test the 84 cyclists who have qualified for the race this summer.

Details of the route have been kept under wraps by the PNCA, which was tasked to run the technical aspect of the race, but initial survey reports revealed that cyclists will really be stretched out as far as skill and endurance is concerned.

"Talagang matinding pagsubok ang bubulaga sa mga siklista natin," said Paquito Rivas, president of the PNCA, formerly known as the Professional Cycling Association of the Philippines, after the initial survey.

Although initially a 14-stage race, the Tour Pilipinas 2003 grew to a 15-stage event spread over 18 days that will take cyclists from Legaspi to Baguio and back to Manila.

The approximate total distance of the race is pegged at 2,367 kilometers.

"It’s a combination of flat roads, high rises, delicate curves and other challenges. I think skill and endurance will be the key words for the coming Tour Pilipinas 2003," said race executive director Mar Mendoza, who oversaw the initial surveys.

Rivas added that the details of the route will be released to the cyclists once the final two surveys are completed.

"Kailangan kasi, maayos ang mga distansya at masiguro natin na maayos din yung mga daan," said Rivas.

The PNCA is set to link up with the Department of Public Works and Highways to determine this early if there are plans for road constructions and improvement that could get in the way of the tour.