MY FAMILY and I always drive by Mangima Spring Resort en route to Malaybalay or Davao City; but, last Sunday, March 26, was our first time inside due to the Mangima Centennial Enduro Challenge, hosted by Mayor Clive Quiño.
Celebrating 100 years of Manolo Fortich, they invited mountain bike (MTB) riding enthusiasts from all over Visayas and Mindanao to experience the challenging trails of the mountain resort. They had five track stages set-up with varying degrees of difficulty. All its finish lines end in the resort's main hub—the spring pools.
MTB competition
I read somewhere that Enduro MTB is the new golf, giving like-minded people a chance to converge frequently in field practices, riding trails, and/or tournaments. However, after personally seeing the trails and hearing about the crash experiences of some riders, I can honestly say MTB is only for the skilled, adventurous, and unafraid. It is not something I would ever consider doing myself being a creature comfort. The hot sun, the dirt, and the challenging trails (with all its jumps, drops, twists, and unexpected turns) are elements these outdoor adrenaline junkies crave. I admire their persistence amidst adversity!
I went to Mangima in support of Team Bikelab, headed by Renante "Renax" Lim, who was also an event organizer and track designer. He has been riding since grade school and has made biking his life’s passion, with his BikeLab store along Tomas Saco, corner 14 St. in Macasanding, Cagayan de Oro. My husband, Doy, is part of his team; and they all performed well in the challenge, giving each track their best effort.
Noteworthy is “Bikelab-er” Raul Tabil, who won third place for the Elite Category (Expert). His story is inspiring because he got a flat rear tire in the beginning of the second stage, but he still trudged forth to finish that particular track. I am certain it was difficult (to say the least) riding the rocky up-hills and down-hills with a busted rear wheel. In the end, he still cinched bronze. Hell, yeah! He is clearly a strong force to contend with.
The Mountain resort
Mangima Spring Resort is pretty decent for a public park, and it totally exceeded my expectations. Admittedly, when my husband initially told me the venue was an LGU (local government unit) managed one, I was prepared to be "koboy" and rough it out. I was pleasantly surprised that there were actual cottages we could rent for privacy. It was only about P700 for a simple cabin. Hey, don't expect the Ritz here! The room had a double bed, a single one, and a super tiny bathroom. It was nothing fancy, but it got the job done.
There are common toilet and changing/shower areas too if guests don't feel like forking out the extra dough. There are several huts for day trippers as well. I talked to one of the park rangers and he said they also welcome hikers and campers. Guests can bring their baon and they can even barbeque. Mangima caters to everyone!
The major plus for me is that the spring pools were nestled under the forest area, with lush greenery providing a cool shade and relaxing backdrop. There were three large pools, all of them clean, with spring water constantly pouring through a pipe. My kids truly enjoyed the refreshing spring water. My sons who have sensitive skin and asthma were so happy that they did not get itchy nor get rhinitis during lunch break, which is the typical result from chlorinated pools.
Be forewarned that the place has weak signal. Don't expect to hook up to social media channels with no LTE. But this was no biggie! It actually felt good to be unplugged for a change. I was able to focus on my 3 children. It was also nice that they had no distracting gadgets and were fully invested in our activities. Communing with nature was a welcome respite.
Enduro to ER
On a side note: My husband ended up from Enduro to the ER. He smashed his palm and ripped it open on Stage 4; but typical gahi ulo (hardheaded) di gyud maminaw (not listen) to stop. It wasn't bleeding profusely and “malayo pa sa bituka” so he slapped on Neosporin, bandaged it tight, and said he'll get stitches after the competition. He stubbornly proceeded onto stage 5, the last and toughest challenge; deaf to all my nagging. In fairness, he truly showed our kids the essence of never giving up that day. Fighting spirit 'yo!
That being said, he also affirmed that he is my oldest child...and the one that's the hardest to control! Toinks! I have to give special thanks to our friend and his fellow competitor, Amir Elazegui, for keeping Doy company in the ER, while I tended to our kids (Palusot! Blood and I don’t go together well). Of course, my dear "spoiled panganay" has no regrets.
After suturing, we found out he won Champion for the Legends (age 40-49) category. I am unable to fathom how he did it. It must have been tough to endure the pain, while gripping the handlebars with a deep laceration on his palm. But no pain, no gain. He says the stitches are worth it! The crazy part (at least to me) is that he says he would do it all over again in a heartbeat.
There goes our weekend. Thanks, Mangima Spring Resort and Mayor Clive. Happy hundred years, Manolo Fortich!
For more info on Mangima Spring Resort, call 0906-113-5753 or visit their FB page with the same name.
For biking needs, call Renax Lim at 0917-702-3707 or visit their FB page: Renante Bikelab