Davao City’s Simon Peter Servillon is making history as the city’s lone qualifier for the 2025 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games downhill mountain bike event. At just 19, Servillon has become a symbol of speed, skill, and determination, carving his path through rugged trails few dare to ride.
His rise to the SEA Games wasn’t a lucky break. In August, Servillon captured the Men’s Elite title at the SIOL International Mountain Bike Challenge in Kuching, Malaysia, clocking an impressive 1:55.903 run. He followed that up by clinching the top spot at the 2025 Philippine National Championships – Downhill held in late September. These back-to-back victories sealed his slot to represent the country in next year’s regional meet.
Downhill mountain biking is not for the faint of heart. Riders plunge steep, rocky terrain at breakneck speeds, relying on precision, courage, and reflexes honed over countless hours of practice. For Servillon, this journey began on Davao’s local trails, fueled by passion more than resources. His success is proof that world-class riders can emerge even without elite facilities, provided they have enough grit and heart.
Behind every victory lies sacrifice. Maintaining high-performance bikes, traveling for races, and training under limited conditions demand both commitment and community support. Yet, despite these hurdles, Servillon continues to fly Davao’s colors with pride, showing what’s possible when talent meets tenacity.
As the SEA Games draw closer, Davaoeños have every reason to rally behind their homegrown downhill dynamo. Win or lose, Servillon’s presence on the continental stage already brings honor to the city. Inspiring a new generation of mountain bikers to dream big and ride harder.
With his focus locked and wheels set for the challenge ahead, Simon Servillon isn’t just racing downhill; he’s racing toward Davao’s place in Southeast Asian cycling history.