The first edition of the Baguio Downhill Open was successfully held on weekend with the reopening of the Yellow Trail of Camp John Hay to biking enthusiasts after nine years of being off-limits.
The constant downpour failed to dampen the spirit of the more than 130 participants who listed in the different categories of the event that drew bikers from all over the country, including those who flew to the Summer Capital all the way from Davao.
The results of the event remain unavailable as of press time.
Event organizer Vince Dangiapo got support from biking enthusiasts from the localities even if it was finalized on short notice.
Dangiapo shared there is a big difference in organizing such event compared to the previous events, saying the equipment of the bikers have changed for the better and can handle rougher and tougher terrain while social media and technology have made it easier in terms of registration and payment which makes the organizer’s job easier.
He added even a biker’s apparel has improved and innovated to provide better protection while on the tracks.
Dangiapo, meanwhile, expressed hope that Baguio, with its seemingly perfect terrain for the extreme sport, will become a hub for local and national downhill mountain bike riders as the city’s mountains are now slowly opening up to the sport.
He also hopes similar events will get more support from the government and the private sector, as the community of bikers continues to grow over time. – Bianca Grace Contreras/UB intern
