An oldie beats younger cyclists in 36-km road race
STO. TOMAS—Even in biking, age does not matter.
Henry Padilla Sr. bested more than 50 other cyclists in the 36-kilometer Pwede Pa Kami category of the recent Eastern Pangasinan Cycling Association Inc. competition.
He was the oldest participant at 73 years old.
Padilla, fondly called Mang Henry, hails from Barangay Palina East, Urdaneta City.
Mang Henry proudly said he is in good shape because he has never stopped joining cycling races in Pangasinan even at his age.
Three of his seven children Debbie, Huber, Hector – are also cycling enthusiasts and have joined national competitions such as the Marlboro Tour.
The old Padilla rides his bike, together with other members of Palina East bikers, every other day around the Fifth District.
They sometimes even venture as far out to the Marcos Highway leading to the mountain city of Baguio.
Mang Henry started cycling when he was 30 and vowed never to stop his hobby as long as he lives.
“Hanggat kaya ko pa, tuloy ang pagbisikleta ko (As long as I am still able to, I will continue cycling),” he told The PUNCH.
He joined the Marlboro Tour five times, from 1965 to1967 and 1974 to 1975, where his best ranking was 15th overall.
He said he enjoys being in the company of the young because hanging out with his fellow elders only makes him feel older.
Mang Henry said his other secrets to good health are proper diet and being a faithful husband.
The competition was sponsored by Eastern Pangasinan Cycling Association Inc. founder Dionisio Villar Jr., who is also a former provincial board member. #
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
