24th October 2009 - That will be a date to remember in the mountain bike cycling community, Malaysia's 1st night mtb jamboree.
What a night it was. Almost 800 riders registered from all over Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, helped by the promotions of various personal blogs and cycling websites. Thanks guys!
There were many things that came to mind at the initial planning. Big group cycling at night, the problems that might come, the trail marking, etc. We are lucky to have the support of the local riders and everyone chipped in the brain storming sessions and came out with what you saw during the ride. The "brilliant" idea of using LED lights enclosed in long plastic bag that illuminated the entire length and also protects it from rain. The motorcross group that made sure everyone is safe. Our members who trimmed the grass, marked the trail and endured the mosquito bites while waiting at the various check points and many others who did what they did best, ensuring the event went well.
Rain, one of the biggest worry. We had plan A and plan B ready in case it rained but thank God, the weather was superb and the riders got to ride the full trail.
I was in charge of registration and am grateful to the patience of the riders when we open shop. After sorting out the teething problems, everything went smoothly with so many riders getting the ride plates, goody bags and T-shirt.
As evening arrived, the riders started to come in for check in and the field in Dataran Sejarah started to fill up with lights.
The mayor of Melaka was invited to say a few words and did the flag off. We managed to get some financial assistance from the state government but after the mayor saw the big turnout, he was impressed and assured us of better support in the next mountain bike event.
I was standing on stage when the flag off was done. It was a sight to behold. So different from the many rides that I have attended. You can feel the excited feeling radiated from so many people.
On behalf of the The Environment Cycling Club, Thank You to all that came from near and far. Thank You for the kind comments in ECC's blog. Thank You to the media that came to share the news to the non cycling world. Thank you to Cycling Asia for the coverage.
We are humbled with the request to do again such a ride and I am sure ECC members will look forward organising another one.
Till then, ride safe.
ECC's photo album
More photos available for viewing at these FB links
Loi Wen Chong's Photos - Album 1
Loi Wen Chong's Photos - Album 2
Loi Wen Chong's Photos - Album 3
Loi Wen Chong's Photos - Album 4
Loi Wen Chong's Photos - Album 5
Cycling Malaysia's photos
Mohd Haris Khalim's Photos
Abdul Wahid's Photos
Bernard's Photos
Azman Mohamed's Photos
Alyas Ling's Photos
Aruff Jasmi's Photos
Abdul Razak Abdul Kadir's Photos
Haitsan Fuji's photos
My own photos
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