GUIMARAS – The Guimaras Provincial Government is inviting cycling athletes or bike enthusiasts to participate in the Guimaras National Cycling Festival 2024 from November 16 to December 1.
With the theme “One Bike. One Island. One Paradise”, the cycling fest aims to position the island province as a hub for adventure sports events and to contribute to the increase tourist arrival and tourism receipts.
This event also aims to highlight the island’s natural beauty, boost tourism, support local business, and drive economic growth in line with the Kabataan FIRST agenda.
The festival, expecting over a thousand of cyclists nationwide, will feature national competitions, fun races, cycling fairs, and educational activities for all ages.
According to Provincial Economic Development (PED) Officer Francisco E. Gentoral, the cycling fest’s objectives are the following: to host significant events featuring Guimaras landmarks and landscapes; to forge partnership with national and international event organizers; and to promote Guimaras in the national and international market.
“We invite the cyclists and bike enthusiasts sa November 16 to December 1 nga magkadto sa Guimaras kag mag-enjoy sa lain-lain nga activities nga i-offer sang province through, of course, sa partnership sa different groups diri sa probinsya,” said Gentoral.The cycling fest will open on November 16 through a Bike Jambooree, combining cycling with community initiatives like tree planting and coastal cleanup, culminating in camping experience at Abelardos’ Beach Resort.
Key events include the Bike Fair and Show on November 16 to 17, showcasing various bike categories and the Kids Fun Race on November 17, alongside bike clinics for young riders.
The Gravel Ride on November 23 and the Criterium Race on November 30 will offer competitive excitement, while the marquee events are the cross-country Marathon National Championship on November 24, and the Enduro National Championship on December 1.
The festival further underscores Guimaras’ dedication to sports tourism, cultural heritage, and talent development.
The provincial government headed by Gov. Joaquin Carlos Rahman Nava, with local stakeholders, thanked the sponsors and participants for their support and anticipated a successful celebration.
Gov. Nava added that the provincial government earmarked P2 million for the event.
For his part, Carlos Cordova III, event organizer, all preparations are in place.
The Guimaras Provincial Police Office (GPPO) will deploy more than 200 police officers across the venues of cycling events. Also, there will be ambulances on standby from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office ready to give first aide or other medical attention in times of emergency./PN
