IBIS FIRST INTERNATIONAL WIN
Subic Freeport, Philippines-April 4-7, 2008
The 6th Annual Terry Larrazabal Bike Festival was held in historic Subic Freeport, which was for years the largest US Naval base outside of the US. And it was because of the prominent US influence that the local vegetation was preserved.
One of the festival's founders, Gregorio "Goyo" Larrazabal, had contacted Brian a couple of months back and extended the invitation to compete at the festivals 4X race and the DH, a trip that Brian was scheduled to take with Hans Rey. So Brian packed up his Ibis Mojo and headed to Manila, minus Hans, who unfortunately had an ankle injury.
Shortly after landing and meeting “Goyo” in person, it was clear that one of the Philippines strongest and most valuable assets is its people. They are the most polite, warm, and welcoming bunch. This would become more evident at the Festival itself, where Brian would sign more autographs on helmets, t-shirts, caps, & bike frames than all the 2007 world cups combined.
After walking the DH, Brian found his first challenge, the Filipino climate, with temperatures of over 100 degrees and humidity that would dehydrate you while swimming. Brian had to trust that only a few practice runs would do for the seeding run, to avoid over-heating (literally!!).
After a 1st place seeding, followed by Joey Barba (current S. Asia DH Champ…fast kid), Brian went on to win the first international win on his Ibis Mojo.
The following day, was the 4X race held by the festival, again the crowds really pulled through. The event announcer heckled the crowd and ice cream vendors made some money banking on the heat. Brian came across the his first heat without a hitch, however the second heat posed some challenges with the honor-system start line…some racer decided to get a head start, making for a good show for the crowds when Brian came from behind for the win. Brian took the 4X win!
Overall the festival was an unforgettable experience. The excitement of the bike enthusiasts was memorable…so many photos ops with fans, it truly was a first-class welcoming to the Philippines for Brian!
Thank you for your extraordinary support, the delicious mangos and warmest introduction to the beautiful country of the Philippines!!
Looking forward to the 7th TLBF…
Check out some photos
Check out some Photos...more to come, as well as video
Posted by paula on April 9, 2008 09:06 PM