BIKE CHALLENGE. Cyclists pose in front of one of the province’s landmarks. The provincial government on Wednesday (May 8, 2024) announced the cancellation of the One Ilocos Sur Tour challenge on May 11-12, 2024 due to the extreme heat. (Photo courtesy of Bikers Club)
LAOAG CITY – The provincial government of Ilocos Sur announced Wednesday that a guided cycling tour along the different scenic parts of the province has been temporarily suspended until the dangerous heat waves cool off.
“The health and well-being of each participant remain our top priority, and after careful consideration, we believe this decision is in the best interest of everyone involved,” Governor Jeremias Singson said in an interview.
“We assure you that we are actively monitoring the situation to determine the most suitable rescheduling options,” the advisory posted on the provincial government’s official Facebook account said.
Launched in 2023, with a total of 48 cyclists who made it to the final stage of the race, this year’s event continues to attract a growing number of cycling enthusiasts.
The first stage of the race was supposed to cover Vigan City to Cervantes via Bitalag in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur on May 11 and the second, from Cervantes to Vigan City via Quirino skyline on May 12.
Organizers said the number of interested participants almost doubled this year, but due to the rising heat index reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius, the Ilocos Sur government and the Ilocos Sur Bikers Organization opted to postpone the event until further notice.
The race is part of the provincial government’s strategy to step up the promotion of local attractions and activities through sports tourism. (PNA)
