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| The third edition of the Romba Tacloban cycling tournament gathered avid bikers from Tacloban City and nearby areas for a thrilling race. Photo: Slipstream Bikeshop and Cafe/Facebook |
TACLOBAN CITY – The third edition of the Romba Tacloban cycling tournament was held on Sunday, December 17, 2023, attracting hundreds of cyclists and spectators on Magsaysay Boulevard. The event showcased the skills and passion of bikers from different age groups and areas who competed in various categories of road and mountain biking.
The tournament tested endurance and speed as the cyclists raced through multiple laps of a challenging course. The winners of each category received cash prizes, medals, certificates, and the admiration of their fellow bikers and the crowd. Some notable champions were Hector Borromeo, Eduardo Dueñas, Ethans Dayola, Melton John Avila, Dennis Chu, Jepee Betasalo, Brian Tan, Alfie Panzo, Olivia Rapada, and Zhean Solis.
The event was not deterred by the inclement weather, thanks to the efforts of the organizers and sponsors. The local government, led by the City Sports Development Office and City Youth Development Office, partnered with organizations such as Smart, Tacloban Cycling Association Inc., Freewheelers Cycling Club, and Slip Stream Bike Shop and Cafe, to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the tournament.
Romba Tacloban was more than just a competition; it was also a celebration of cycling and sustainability. The event aimed to promote a healthier and greener lifestyle by highlighting the benefits of cycling for both the individual and the environment. Cycling is a form of exercise, recreation, and transportation that can improve one's physical and mental well-being and reduce one's carbon footprint and environmental impact.
By hosting Romba Tacloban, the city hopes to inspire more people to embrace cycling as a way of life and support the cause of preserving the region's natural resources. The event was a success, not only in terms of the number of participants and spectators but also in terms of the message and impact it delivered. —iTacloban (with reports from CIO)