North Face backs ‘Bike for a Cause’

Jens Funk and Martin Langevoord, two Germans who have fallen in love with the Philippines, established the Bike4U Foundation aimed at providing used bikes to poor children in the country.

In fact, Funk and Langevoord organized the Bike for a Cause where the two intend to bike through the treacherous Karakoram Highway, the world’s highest road that connects Pakistan to China.

And The North Face, the world’s leading provider of outdoor gear and apparel, is assisting the organizers.

"This is a continuation of The North Face’s outreach program, we’re doing this beyond athletic pursuit," said Roel Chan, The North Face’s brand manager, during launching rites at its store in Rockwell.

The biggest challenge, Funk explained, is the Karakoram’s altitude, which goes above the 4,700-meter plateau making it difficult for cyclists to ride.

"If you go above 4,700 meters, there’s always the problem with altitude," said the Cebu-based Funk, who has been in the country for four years now. That’s where The North Face comes in.

"The North Face will sponsor us with all the equipment we need like tents, jackets, shoes, and clothes, everything we need for the altitude," said Funk.

Funk said those who want to support the foundation may do so in four ways: through direct contributions (see www.bike4u.org for details), by buying a copy of Cycling Philippines or limited edition shirts available at The North Face, or purchasing a kilometer or two from the expedition.

Cycling Philippines is available at The North Face concept stores at Glorietta 4, Powerplant Mall, SM Mall of Asia, SM City Davao and at Shangri-la Mall.

Details: www.bugoybikers.com.