Pedaling Pinoy: The Grand Eyeball - UFMBQ Season Opener 2018-2019

September 28, 2018 marks the UFMBQ's Grand Eyeball. An opening ceremony for the 2018-2019 riding season for the cycling community in the region. For about four years now, the Grand Eyeball has become an oral history under the United Filipino Mountain-bikers in Qatar (UFMBQ).

Photo credit: Jano Lindo

Fun and excitement filled the air, the laughter and chanting gulped the calmness of the surrounding mangroves lying peacefully across the shoreline in AL Thakira, located in the north side of Al Khor.

Photo credit: Jano Lindo

UFMBQ Board of Trustees - from left: Olga Robes, Ariel De Guzman, Almario Beltran, John Bonalos, Maricar Estacio and that's me at the back.
Other BOTs who were also present during the GEB: Andrew Tangonan and Eddie Padilla.
Standing beside me: Ricahrd Oliver of El Padyakeros - the lead host of the amazing venue.


Photo credit: Jano Lindo Another photo of the UFMBQ BOTs. All men this time, from left: Ariel De Guzman, Me, Almario Beltran, John Bonalos and Marvin Herrera who also emceed almost all of our events and always bring humor every time he holds the microphone.

There were new faces, new groups, new friends, new jerseys and of course new bikes. Everything just seemed to be new for this brand new season except for the Board of Trustees who don't changed what they like and love to do. As long as the time permits, these fellows will continue to offer their precious time and effort for the sake of preserving sportsmanship and camaraderie within the band of this pedaling fraternity. The Board may not look new but this doesn't mean they're old, nobody can deny the fact that they are as young as one can imagine. Just look at the photos above and toss your judgement😱.

Photo credit: Jose Ramil Carillo

Here it goes, a fun ride along the coastline that everyone was waiting for. Riders are about to traverse the seaside that features an easy type of trail riding condition. Even those beginners who joined were happy to complete the loop and finish the ride. After all, it was the natural beauty of the place that counted the most.

Photo credit: Jose Ramil Carillo

The rest of the organizers and affiliated group members preparing the tents and foods to be served after the ride. Meanwhile, all the riders are seen rolling in the background.

Photo credit: Jano Lindo

We dubbed this cliff as the Lion King. Posing with pride and glamour are the Queens and Princesses of Doha Chiqlistas.

What a pleasant weather up above, stunning view in the background and of course the beautiful, pretty, gorgeous, alluring ladies on top of the ridge...what more adjectives could I say...these pedaling chiqs will surely make your day!

Photo credit: Reno Doctoler Yes indeed, please SHARE THE ROAD!

Photo credit: Reno Doctolero

Finally, the riders arrived...party time, Yeah!

The UFMBQ Grand Eyeball once again was a success. The door of the new season has now officially opened bringing new aspirations and excitement for the racing riders, a fresh adventure for explore-rides and a contemporary challenge for the whole cycling community to remain steadfast and unified.

On behalf of the UFMBQ President, Mr. John Bonalos and the Board of Trustees, we thank you!

Visit our website: #WeAreUFMBQ