Cyclists from Chonburi and Rayong took the top honors as riders from Thailand’s 77 provinces competed for cash and trophies in the Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge.
Thonghcai Biadnok of the Infinite Rayong Bicycle team placed first in the 45-49 age bracket, earning the HRH Princess Chulabhorn Cup from Manoj Nongyai, president of the Pattaya Bicycle Club, which co-sponsored the May 11-12 event. 1MSgt Surat Nanthapanjaporn of Thai Airways International placed second and Bunjan Phenpinij of the Peter Bike Team took third.
MTB riders line up at the start for the Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge on Sunday May 12.
In the General Public category, Chinapat Sukhsaen of the Chonburi Forest Sub-district municipal office took home the HRH Princess Chulabhorn Cup and cash. Sujit Wirojwong of the Pattaya Bike Club placed second and Somrak Mabprakorb of the RB Thai Racing Bike team took third.
Carried out in partnership with the Royal Aeronautic Sports Association of Thailand and Burapha University, the competition was aimed at making mountain bikes more popular with Thai youths, leading to good health and productive use of their spare time. The event was part of the 2013 Air Sea Land Games being held throughout May in Thailand.
Riders tackle the challenging 6.5km mix-terrain course on Pratamnak Hill.
Contestants were split into 18 categories to take on the 6.5km track on Pratumnak Hill, filled with obstacles and challenges. More than 20 teams competed and rider’s scores were based on the cumulative times of five runs each.
Winners in other brackets received prizes from other competition sponsors and guests. Fireworks marked the final day of competition and the contest also featured an exhibition of SN Bikes, including booths selling bicycle parts and accessories.
Chinapat Sukhsaen from Chonburi Forest Municipality office shows off his HRH Princess Chulabhorn trophy after winning the General Public category.
Thongchai Biadnok from the Infinite Rayong Bicycle was the winner of the 45-49 age category.
