The Philippines is set to send six promising young cyclists to the 3rd Asian Youth Games (AYG) in Bahrain, with hopes of making their mark against the continent’s best junior riders.
All six athletes—CJ Leberato Cabreros and Joelian Abdul Hamid (Ilocos), Carl Espinosa (Antipolo), Maritanya Lucas Krog (Caloocan), Maria Louise Alejado (Iloilo), and Yvaine Delos Reyes Osias (Samar)—earned their spots after standout performances in the PSC Batang Pinoy Games and the PhilCycling Road National Championships.
Coach Joey Delos Reyes said in an interview with RP2 Sports that the cyclists are wrapping up a three-week training camp in Cavite ahead of their scheduled departure on Wednesday, October 22.
“The kids have been performing really well in training,” said Delos Reyes. “They’ve been able to keep pace with elite pro riders from Standard Insurance Philippines, which shows their progress and potential.”
The AYG road cycling competition will feature five events: the boys’ and girls’ Individual Time Trial (ITT), the Mixed Team Time Trial, and the individual Road Race for both divisions.
Joining Delos Reyes on the coaching staff are Coach Marita Lucas and bike mechanic Rey Navarro, who will provide crucial support to the Philippine squad throughout the continental meet, open to athletes aged 16 and under.
