Just want to share a ride report that is both very nerve-wrecking and exciting…

On the 7th day of October, six Extremely (insane) Trail riders in the caliber of Principal Pax, together with the two of us apprentice, Empoy and Me, rode along on a journey to a dreaded place which strikes fear in the hearts and pants of most riders (hello there Blackdoug!). The place known as the “Grotto” Trail in the playgrounds of San Mateo!!

Once upon a time, this trail route used to be an easy one (if you’re on foot, that is…); a tricky drive to a rock-ridden uphill path towards the top. But due to the recent visit of “Milenyo” typhoon, there have been portions that were affected by landslides and deep ruts that caused a collapse of the terrain.

So now it’s not only a tricky trail, but it became very tough and complicated!  In most times, the road wasn’t even there where they used to be…

Every strength and every single breath you have must be conserved in order to pass the very technical sections of the trail!  What with hairpin turns on slippery rocky hills, Banzai skills were definitely put to good practice here! 

There was one almost impossibly crazy segment of the trail, a very steep, short cliff were we all had to go through to continue ahead.  At this time, we learned a very valuable lesson and talent—“The Art of Letting Go…”

In order to succeed, one must throw away all reservations, all anxieties and all apprehension… JUST CHARGE AHEAD AND LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!! 

Well, with such tough time and demanding experience, it’s a good thing to have trail buddies there to help along….

Oh the joys and pleasures of trail riding… just another bump on the road in—a day in the secret lives of…. EXTREME TRAIL RIDERS!!!

CHEERS!!

(Only few bikes and buddies were not harmed during the time of riding. For comments, complaints and violent reactions, post here…)

Photos Courtesy of: Mr. Bimbo Antenor Cruz
Article by: OBIJUAN