Jerich Farr and Lea Denise Belgira were crowned back-to-back champions of the Manila Qualifier of Red Bull Pump Track World Championship held at the Circulo Verde, in Quezon City recently.
Farr’s time of 31.67 seconds narrowly escaped Oscar Acdol Jr.’s 32.89 seconds in the finals to win the men’s category, while Belgira’s time of 35.83 outlasted the Singapore-raised Natasha Nadiah’s 39.96 seconds to win the women’s category .
Both Farr and Belgira will receive an all-expense paid trip to the World Final to be held either in the U.S. or Switzerland.
The close gap in the finals between Farr’s and Acdol’s finish time had the former admitting that this year’s championship was more competitive.
“Sobrang pressured ako. Lalo na ‘yung makita ko ‘yung mga kalaban ko na for sure bumilis,” Farr said. “Lalo na po noong finals. Kung anu-ano na ‘yung pumapasok sa isip ko, pero I worked my way through it.”
Belgira shared the same viewpoint that the competition has indeed attracted more competent bikers.
“’Yung mga kalaban namin magagaling po talaga,” she said.
Farr dedicated his victory to his parents for continuously supporting his passion, which sometimes sacrifices his education.
“Mahirap po sa isang magulang or sa isang family member na tanggapin ‘yung sport na ganito. Especially ‘yung igi-give-up ‘yung school. Sobrang thankful po ako sa kanila dahil nagtiwala po sila sa akin.”
At the conclusion of the event, Farr and Belgira shared their thoughts once again in the World Final.
“Last year sa U.S., sobrang galing po ng mga riders doon, lumabas po na parang beginner lang ako pagdating doon. Hopefully, this year makapag-prepare ako ng mas mabuti at sana mag-up ng konti ‘yung game ko,” Farr said.
“I am coming for you guys (her competitors). See you soon!” Belgira said.
The Manila Qualifier of the Red Bull Pump Track World Championship was hosted by Ortigas & Company, Circulo Verde, and the Bike Playground.