International bike stars to spice up cycling expo
THE PhilBike Expo, the country’ first and largest trade and consumer show dedicated to the promotion and development of cycling and related industries, happens this weekend with international cycling stars gracing the event to add further color to it.
To happen from Nov. 26 to 27 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, the expo, now on its third year, will once again bring together over 100 brands from the world of cycling and fitness, giving enthusiasts and first timers alike, the chance to check out the very best and latest that the industry has to offer.
It will also have unique, indoor interactive features that will get the adrenaline of the attendees flowing as well as a selection of fun games, contests, and raffles with exciting prizes.
Set to join the festivities, which is organized and produced by Phil-Bike Convention, Inc. (PBCI), are international cycling stars Kenny Belaey, the Superkids — Yu Shoji, 14, and Takumi Isogai, 15 — Viki Gomez and Geoff Gulevich.
Known as “The Magician,” 24-year veteran Belaey is one of the top bike trail riders in the world and considered an innovator and a true professional. The Belgian holds the record for the most medals won at the World Cup and World Championships.
The Superkids, who hail from Japan, meanwhile, are prodigies making a name in the flatland scene with their cutting-edge and flair for pushing innovation to its limits. Shoji is the first place winner at the 2015 Voodoo Jam and the second runner-up for the 2014 FlatArk Novice. Isogai, for his part, was the first place winner of the 2014 FlatArk Expert and came in at eighth place for the 2016 FlatDev Pro.
The duo is being mentored by Spaniard Gomez, who returns to the country after being one of the faces of last year’s PhilBike Expo. A Red Bull athlete, 35-year-old Gomez is hailed as one of the best in the world on flatland as attested by his a three championships at the Flatland World Circuit Series and his being a three-time Red Bull Circle of Balance Champion. He is also a twotime winner of the European X-Games.
Completing the roster of visiting stars is Canadian Gulevich, who is among the best in mountain biking, combining passion with a strong sense of perseverance that sets him apart from his peers. He is the fourth runner-up for Jumpship 2011, and came in fifth for both the Red Bull Rampage 2010 and the Crankworx Joyride 2011. He is set to do a special, one-day only performance for expo attendees.
Established in 2014, the PhilBike Expo has made significant strides in its push to promote cycling and industries to it.
In its first two years, it has attracted 17,000-plus visitors, or an average of 8,500 a year, while also seeing a steady rise of brands showcased.
Those interested to buy tickets for the expo may do so by visiting http://philbike.
pouchnation.com/. Tickets are priced at P150 per day. Children ages 12 and below are entitled to a 50% discount while toddlers 3 feet and below enter for free.