Yong Peng Mtb Jamboree 2011

I have already written a scribe on Bukit Merah Gold Jamboree and while at it, got an idea for another story but I need to refine it more as the first version was rather crude especially on Bukit Merah ride which was far from satisfaction until last weekend when I attended Yong Peng Mtb Race.
This ride was never in my ride itinerary as I have roughly planned which rides to take part. Fortunately after the last hash ride by Mastanah and during lunch with the ECC members, YC asked if I wanted to join this ride as they are doing the group registration. Without even giving another thought of it, I confirmed my participation and immediately gave RM45.00 to YC.

The trail around Yong Peng town

We left Malacca at an unearthly hour of 5am from the meeting point of Mc D, Ayer Keroh. That meant I had to get up at 4.15am. Hah, the things we're willing to do for the our passion.

We reached Yong Peng rather early as there was not many traffic on the highway during the wee hours of the morning. Found a coffee shop to take our breakfast and when we walked in, we were surprised to see the number of dishes. W0w! At 6.40am, there were more than 15 dishes on the table. Later we figured that Yong Peng is probably a town where many of the locals work in plantations and they need to eat a hearty meal and pack food to bring along into the plantation sites. Once you're in, you won't come out till the it's time to call it a day.

The trail profile

Flag off was sharp 8.30am done by a lady politician and since this was a mountain bike race, we knew what we were in for.
Just like any mountain bike event, if you want to have a clear path to ride especially if there is a hill ahead, you have to be in the front pack. That means it's no longer cycling on road for warm up purposes. On road cycling before hitting dirt road is the best place to overtake and head towards the front so the tip of the day is, train your road cycling besides off road cycling.

Me requesting 2 bananas

The whole distance was 50km and I was surprised my stamina and spirits were excellent despite the lack of sleep. The hills were never ending. Some rideable but most was just to steep, at least for me.


All was going well with a noticeable lead until Km 45 when my chain broke. Not 1 but in 2 places. I had it repaired after it broke the first time in Bukit Merah but looks like it was not able to withstand the strain. Since I didn't have any chain connector, I decided to push my bike on the last 5 km. When I reached checkpoint 4, I was told I was still within the top 100. I ran, pushed, walked and glided whenever I can but the last 4km saw many riders overtaking and I finally crossed the finishing line at 12.30pm with the position of 121.

Although it was disappointing not being able to be in the top 100 but I take comfort that even when I had to walk the last 5km, the position was still impressive knowing that I were reasonable far ahead to give away the position.

Good job to Hard Cycling Team for the ride. The trail marking was clear, checkpoint clearance was fast and refuel stations was efficient.

Well this ride is one of the best rides I have ever taken part in. It serves not only as a challenge but it was one of the most satisfying ride that I completed under all circumstances.

I look forward to their next event