Tour de Langkawi veteran cyclist Merculio Ramos, Jr. scored his first victory of the year by ruling the “3rd Bataoil Cycling Challenge Siklista Kontra sa Droga” last March 15 that started and finished at Aguilar town in conjunction with the celebration of the town fiesta.

The 29-year old Ramos, originally from Tarlac City but now a resident of Binalonan, orchestrated a gallant sprint finish against breakaway partner Reynaldo Navarro in the last 300 meters to pocket the P8,000 top prize.

Navarro earned P6,000 for finishing second.

The duo identically clocked the 147.8 kilometers of well-paved road, sponsored by Gen. Leopoldo N. Bataoil, in three hours, 33 minutes and 30 seconds.

Bugallon son Renier Clauna came all by his lonesome one minute 40 seconds off the two to land third and netted P4,000 while Pangasinan’s sprint specialist Ericson Obosa from Manaoag checked in fourth worth P2,000. San Carlean Enrique Domingo finished fifth, good for P1,000.

 Rounding up the top ten were 2003 Tour Pilipinas champion Arnel Quirimit, 6th; Sherwin  Carrera, 7th; Renato Sembrano, 8th; Reynaldo Calosa, 9th; Jesus Garcia, 10th.

The star-studded road battle was flagged-off by Aguilar Mayor Ricardo Evangelista assisted by the town’s alderman, Rolando E. de Vera.

The two also awarded the prizes, trophies and medals to the winners held at the town’s plaza.

“We hold this kind of race because we want to contribute to our provinces’ sports development, and to show the people that athletes have a healthy mind and body because they don’t take the prohibited drugs,” said Bataoil in a phone interview with The PUNCH.

“We thank Gen. Bataoil for helping our athletes develop their skills for future bigger competitions,” said Evangelista, adding, “We hope this will be done again next year.”

The event was aired live from start to finish over Sonshine Radio DZRD 981 Khz AM.—JAGJr.

Share your Comments or Reactions

comments

Powered by Facebook Comments