Cycling great Padi makes final ride, 67

MANILA, Philippines - Filipino cycling great Cornelio Padilla Jr. passed away last Sunday due to a heart ailment. He was 67.

Fondly called “Padi,” the two-time champion of the Tour of Luzon left behind a checkered career both as a rider and a lawyer.

He is survived by his wife, Luzviminda Gumatay-Padilla, and children Jennifer, May, Nathalie and Eli. His remains lie in state at the Funeraria Paz in Quezon City.

Padilla saw action in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics then went on to win the Tour of Luzon twice in 1966 and 1967 against the likes of Joe Sumalde, who passed away in the 90s.

Padilla continued his studies after his riding days and went on to become a lawyer, earning the degree at Far Eastern University.

In the mid-90s, Padilla served as president of the Rotary Club of Quirino in Quezon City.

He loved wearing the yellow jersey.