BONGABON, Nueva Ecija — Rick Nobel of the Netherlands has nothing but praises for the successful hosting of the 2022 Trek Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Gravel World Series and gave credits to the locals for the warm welcome and support.
Traveling all the way from New Delhi, India where he currently resides, Nobel ruled the 19-34 years old category of the 85-kilometer course last Sunday, April 3.
"Of all the gravel events, this was executed nicely because most of the races were too long and this was an 85-kilometer course. You'll be tired but not completely exhausted so it's perfect," said Nobel, who bested Filipinos Mervin Santiago and Jarwyn Banatao in the 19-34 category.
"You have enough energy to give it all and I think it's a really nice course. A lot of people supporting on the roads so that's really important as well. That's a community event, not just some random cyclists going through a landscape."
After experiencing not only the scenery but the competition here in the municipality, Nobel, who suits up for Eurocyclingtrips Pro Cycling Team, found more reason to invite his friends and teammates over next time.
The Philippines was the only Asian country to host one of the 15 qualifying events for the World Gravel Championships.
The 27-year-old Dutch cyclist said he has made friends along the way, which for him, is the most important part of joining such competitions.
"I'm enjoying myself," said Nobel, who works as a diplomat when not riding his bike. "I wanted to stay for two weeks but work is calling and I had to go out. There was a quite nice drive here. It was good... I think it's really good atmosphere here, the people are welcoming and the food is quite good."
Nobel also noticed that the locals seem to have an "authentic way of life" as he witnessed the municipality's rich agricultural landscape and farm animals throughout the whole course.
The UCI World Gravel Series coincided with the celebration of Sibuyas Festival as truckloads of onions were being transported on the main roads while the locals, clad in onion-esque costumes, performed prior to the awarding.
"I think the best part about this is I don't really ride my bike for myself," said Nobel, who started competing at age 13. "It's nice to elevate the sport and to hope to get more people in bicycles and I don't think I have to do that job here because everyone's already on the bikes
"There's a big scene here and people are really riding together as well. In the Netherlands, there are a lot of cyclists but they ride alone. But here it's a social thing and I think it's more important because it makes it more accessible for the people to join in and grow the sport."
Meanwhile, it was Butuan native cyclist Riemon Lapaza who clocked the fastest time and came in first in the 35-39 category despite Nobel crossing the finish line first physically.