MANILA, Philippines - The Integrated Cycling Federation of the Philippines (ICFP) will introduce the “Super Keirin” race in the country starting February near year.
ICFP secretary-general Armando Bautista said Japanese cycling officials have chosen the country as their first pilot project since the Filipinos have what it takes to excel in the event.
While it is normally held in a velodrome, the event can be held in any well-paved street that has a distance of 1.5 kilometers.
“It’s also a street event, so we can bring this to Visayas and Mindanao. It can be held anywhere,” said Bautista. “The event only requires sprint power and mental toughness.”
The introduction of Super Keirin race, according to Bautista, is also likely to boost the country’s chances in track events in future international events.
“We want to develop and popularize the sports of Super Keirin in the whole Asia and we selected the Philippines as our first pilot project. The Philippines has a special place in our heart,” said Seiichi Muramatsu, special envoy of the Japan Professional Cycling Association.
Japan Cycling Federation president Shoichi Iwadate said it’s high time that Keirin race is introduced to thousands of Filipino cycling enthusiasts since “it’s an exciting race”.
The Keirin race was originated from Japan and was first staged in the Olympics during the 2000 Sydney Games.
“The introduction of the event is very timing, now that we having an ecology imbalances which is happening worldwide, the event offers pollution-free competition, no gas consumption is required, it is powered by human only,” added ICFP Col. Arnold Taberdo.
The JCF also plans to donate bikes to ICFP for the use of deserving members of the pool.