International Marathon Popobike

Michel Awad, Miguel Martinez, and Emil F. Awad

The International Marathon Popobike offers two general categories, full and half marathon, and neither are intended for children under 15. Emil F. and Michel ran the half marathon, 32K. They started in the last category, beginners 20. I ran with Michel and Emil F. did it alone. This was great training and we had a lot of fun. Emil F. (10) did it in 2:31, 374/873 of all 32K categories; and Michel (7) did it in 3:04, 577/873 of all 32K categories!

Thank you Gilberto Soliman for organizing such excellent races!

Over 1600 racers in  Popobike 2010

Emil F. passing in the last  hills.

Walking competitor forces Michel to take an uncomfortable line

Michel passing

Michel closing the day with strength and honor to the National Champion Jersey

Michel passing

Michel in the last hill

Michel finishing the last hill

Miguel Martinez comments on the performance of  Emil F.

Emil F., Johnny Cattaneo (winer of the full marathon) and Michel

Michel enjoying a good meal

An excellent end of season for Emil F.

Popobikito, National Children's XCO Race

Five time World Champion and Olympic Champion  Miguel Martinez with Emil F.

The new track laked steep hills, but it required skill to maintain a good rhythm. Best of all was to count with Miguel Martinez as guide to the track; the time he gave to the children is an invaluable gift. Emil F. started very well and stayed close to Miguel Martinez. Emil F. imposed a rhythm that separated him from the rest of the group, and he arrived in first place with ample margin. The handling and technique lecture he received, by following the wheel of Miguel Martinez, is bound to stay with him for life.

Thank you Miguel!

Emil F. First Place

An all Veracruz Podium

Michel raced for the first time with his 26' bike. He had some trouble at the start and was boxed. After working his way around several competitors, he arrived in third place.

Michel pressing on.

Michel third place

Emil F., Miguel Martinez y Michel