McEwen shares secret to Pinoy cyclists

THREE-time Tour De France sprint champion Robbie McEwen said that Filipino cyclists have the potential to become superstars in the sport.

“Sky is the limit but you have to start building a cycling culture, getting more and more young athletes into cycling to discover the superstar whose going to make it,” McEwen, 46, told The

Manila Times after the news conference ushering in the Sun Life Cycle PH at the Seda Hotel in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.

“Just getting more kids into sports and find that real, super talent who can take it all the way.”

The 2002, 2004 and 2006 Tour de France green jersey winner also told Filipino cyclists that consistent and gradual progress is the key to success in the sport.

“Every year, I have done some separate golden workshops with some Filipino national riders, and I told them to take it step by step to become the best in the Philippines, and take the next step to racing the Asian tours,” McEwen added.

McEwen, with businessman Wilfred Uytengsu, actors Piolo Pascual, Jake Cuenca, Enchong Dee, and Matteo Guidicelli were among the celebrities that took part in Sun Life Cycle PH on Saturday in BGC to promote cycling and a healthy lifestyle .

“Finishing the races, then aspiring to win races and working together as a team. So trying to help them to realize that cycling is truly a team sport and you have to do it together to achieve the maximum result,” the retired Australian cyclist said.

A total of 1,200 cyclists joined the Kid’s ride, Short Ride and Long Ride of Sun Life Cycle PH. The riders cruised through Taguig, Makati, Manila and Pasay City.

“First of all, this is not a competition but it is a ride,” race director Neville Manaois told The

Manila Times. “We want to create a safe atmosphere for all participants especially in the urban jungle. Well, there are no champions here. Everybody is considered a champion here.”