Independence Day Extreme Trail Ride
What better way to commemorate Independence day than to enjoy the liberating feeling of communing with nature at the same time that you get to play with an awesome new toy?
That’s exactly what I did on June 12, INDEPENDENCE DAY! I joined my boss and adventure master, Ed Delgado, and two others in my first real Extreme Trail Ride. Our playground: the vast network of foot trails in the mountains of San Mateo, Rizal. Our toy: the TX125, a super agile, powerful, and very easy to handle dirt bike designed and put together by my boss himself.
I’ve never given much thought about the word “extreme” in Extreme Sports until June 12. In the case of our extreme trail ride, “extreme” is just the adjective. The trails seem to become more and more impossible as we negotiated our way deeper into the mountain. I am still amazed at how “regular” extreme trail riders like my companions are able to navigate their way around those trails. I would have been officially lost within five minutes of our ride if I had to navigate by myself.
What I like best about extreme trail riding is that there seems to be a surprise in every corner or bend. Nothing is the same! And the best part is, I managed to surprise even myself — accomplishing maneuvers I never thought I could have done even in my wildest dreams. My skill level as a rider is hardly impressive. As an extreme trail rider, I am a newbie. So it must be the TX125 that made all of it possible!
Exactly a week after June 12, I was at it again! By the end of our extreme trail ride on June 19 I have already completed “Graduation Hill.” That makes me a certified Extreme Trail Rider. But I can’t rest on my laurel. If the past 2 Saturdays are any indications I have seen and tried nothing yet. There are a lot worse trails to negotiate. I can’t wait!
