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July 2, 2010

Night Ride with the ONEbikers (Oriental Negros Bikers)

Jeremy and Ylang
It started at the Villegas Painitan in Valencia's poblacion where I met husband and wife mtb bikers, Jeremy and Ylang. We had a lively conversation over native chocolate drink. Two days later, I get an email if I want to join them on a night ride with their friends. Hmmm...tempting, but on my mall bike? It'll disintegrate on the first few bumps! I was assured they'll be forgiving. How could I say no?

Doc Simon - my Good Samaritan
We gathered near El Pueblo Village. Soon after, we were a critical mass of around 20 - young, not-so-young, professionals, workers, etc. We came from different walks of life, having the love for mountain biking as our common denominator. They were all friendly and accommodating - I just couldn't say enough about them. My little surprise came in the form of a decent trail bike, courtesy of Dr. Simon (ENT). He was my Good Samaritan. At least I didn't have to worry about bike trail-worthiness. His brother, another doctor, was also on the ride. I learned days later, that the ONEbikers is referred to by the mtb community as the 'group of doctors'.

The Ride
We took off around 6:30 pm and started riding through paved roads, fire trails, and single tracks, aided only by our lights. The trail was again, deceptively graded. Before I knew it, I was told we were already in BongBong, Valencia, a barangay perched in excess of 1500 meters above sea level (MASL). This was validated on the way back with sustained downhill riding at speed until we reached Valencia poblacion. A customary stop for halo-halo at Estrells was in order. It was tempting to head home as my place was only a few blocks away. But I had to return Dr. Simon's bike.

Glad All Over
From there, we headed back to the gathering place were we all dispersed. It was another ride back to Valencia for me. Fortunately, Bro, a young outdoor adventurer accompanied me. It was a lively conversation going back home. I was beat up but felt great. That was one great workout and one great crew.

--- TheLoneRider