MANILA, Philippines—The world-governing body for cycling and the national federation for the sport are again giving official recognition to the staging of the third annual Le Tour de Filipinas.
“The Philippines can very rightly be proud of this quality cycling race that has a crucial role to play in the development of our sport in Southeast Asia,” Pat McQuaid, president of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), said of the 2012 Le Tour de Filipinas which hits the road from April 14 to 17.
“Since its beginning back in 1955, this event has moved with the times, undergoing several changes of name and format before reaching today’s successful formula,” added McQuaid, referring to the fabled Tour, which started as the Manila-Vigan Race in 1955 and transformed into the Tour of Luzon, Coca-Cola Tour, Tour ng Pilipinas and Marlboro Tour.
Air21 owner Bert Lina revived the Tour and named it FedEx Express Tour in 2002.
In 2010, Lina, who headed PhilCycling from 2003 to 2008, decided to go international and organized the Le Tour de Filipinas. Air21 is returning as presentor for the 2012 edition.
Tagaytay City Mayor and PhilCycling president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino also expressed his support to the Le Tour.
“The PhilCycling is again throwing its full sport to the 2012 Le Tour de Filipinas, which is proof of the continued enthusiasm Filipinos have toward cycling,” said Tolentino.