PADYAK PINOY SPRINTS AS LE TOUR de FILIPINAS

17 to 20 April 2010, Category 2.2
 
2010 was a banner year which marked the return of Philippine cycling to international scene.
 
Dynamic Outsource Solutions Inc., organizers of the famed Padyak Pinoy was awarded by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the highest organizing body in cycling, the unique distinction of being the only authorized group to run a UCI sanctioned race in the Philippines.
 
The Le Tour de Filipinas 2010 ushered in the Union Cycliste Internationale or UCI sanctioned – category 2.2 road race, which translated to a new era of international cycling spectacular, introducing a race which was participated by UCI recognized international and continental teams from The Netherlands, South Africa, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia and Mongolia.
 
Not since the late 90’s that a tour was plotted on the UCI calendar, the Le Tour de Filipinas 2010, featuring international contingents, celebrated the return of Philippine Cycling on the cycling world map.
 
Stage races has become a tradition in the Philippines for more than half a century, however, bike enthusiasts experienced a temporary lull of three years from 1999 due to lack of funds and sponsorships. Only to be revived by Mr. Alberto D. Lina in 2002 dubbing the race as Tour Pilipinas, participated by elite riders of the country.
 
The renewed interest in bike road races spearheaded by Mr. Lina, who eventually served as President of the Philippine National Cycling Federation or PhilCycling in 2005, reengineered local standards to align with UCI regulations. And in 2006, the organized road race rose to new heights and is given a new name – PADYAK PINOY.
 
The following summer runs gained tremendous support from all possible bends, from both local government units and private sectors. Preparing for bigger objectives, under the Padyak Pinoy organizing committee headed by Mr. Edgardo H. Cayton.
 
And amidst the scorching heat of a tropical country offers, gallant men with hearts of a true Filipino Champion, against world class competitors, pushed themselves to their limits – to capture a coveted prize of being recognized as tour Champion.
 
The rest, as the cliché goes, is history. And best is yet to come, as we anticipate the coming Le Tour de Filipinas 2011.