Surigao City hosts biggest mountain bike challenge

The Department of Tourism (DoT) will hold the 1st Nickel Island Mountain Bike Challenge on June 19-20 in Nonoc Island, Surigao City.

The said event, which is in line with the DoT’s promotion of sports and ecotourism in the country, is in coordination with the local government of Surigao City, Surigao del Norte and PHILNICO.

DoT Secretary Roberto Pagdanganan said that "it will be the first biggest sports tourism event that will be held in Surigao City, with approximately 500 biking enthusiasts from all over the Mindanao and the Visayas participating."

"The event will promote not only mountain biking in the country but also Surigao City’s beautiful sites and tourists attractions."

He added that aside from enjoying the race, participants and guests will be treated to an ecological display of flora and fauna along the route, a panoramic view of the island, and interaction with the hospitable island dwellers.

Set against the backdrop of the world’s fourth largest nickel natural depository – Nonoc Island is 10 kms. north of Surigao city. The cross-country race covers an exciting 36-km. bike trail off mining roads traversing four island-barangays namely, Nonoc Talisay, Cantiasay and San Pedro.

The race kicks-off on June 20 at 8 a.m. in Barangay Nonoc and ends at Barangay San Pedro, which is accessible through a 400-meter wooden bridge.

On-site validation and screening of participants will be held in Barangay Cantiasay a day before the race.

The organizers are inviting luminaries and other personalities to add prestige to the occasion. At stake are cash prizes, trophies and medals for the winners.