The Batu Gajah Mountain Bike Jamboree 2014 held on Sunday, November 2 was a great success. This year’s competition witnessed an increase in the number of participants – in excess of 700 – a huge jump from the 500-odd that took part last year. Obviously, promotional efforts by the organiser, the Batu Gajah District Office, had been fruitful.
The participants were divided into five categories namely, Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Boy’s Junior, Girl’s Junior and Veteran. They were required to cycle over a 38-km route that took them past Kellie’s Castle, along dirt tracks and in oil palm estates. The route was 60 per cent off-track and 40 per cent track, a mix that had an appeal to those who thrived on adventure and hardship. The start and ending points were the same – Arena Square and Batu Gajah.
Some had to give up when their machines gave way due to a snapped chain or a punctured tyre but the rest completed the course in one piece. Most were pleased with the way the event was organised and managed, but were miffed by the time spent on raffle draws.
“The response was overwhelming,” said Makhlis Othman, the Organising Committee Chairman. “We didn’t expect such a number with some coming as early as 7am. The participants were satisfied with the course as it had something for everybody.” The success had spurred the organisers to seriously consider making the event an annual affair.
Winners walked away with cash prizes ranging between RM500 to RM150. Prizes for raffle draws were equally attractive. They included bicycle parts, hampers and electrical goods worth well over RM30,000 in all.
Luqman
