Jay Taruc tackles a new adventure this Saturday on 'I-Witness'' 'Cannonball' episode

"CANNONBALL"

Dokumentaryo ni Jay Taruc

January 17, 2015

 

12 hours. 500 kilometers. One motorcycle!

 

As a motorcycle rider for almost 15 years, riding across different places in the country, and some parts of Asia and Europe, Jay embarks on probably his most challenging ride ever.

 

The first Cannonball is 'not a race', the organizers stress, but a competition with none other than yourself. It puts your riding skills to the limit. And, most of all, it will be a true measure of your endurance on the road.

 

Cannonball is an endurance ride that will be held in what motorists describe as the "Northern Loop". All participants of the Cannonball --- all 600 of them --- are expected to finish either the 1,000 km-course within 24 hours, or 500 km-course within 12 hours.

 

The Northern Loop, as described by veteran motorists, is one of the toughest routes. The jump off point from Angeles, Pampanga to Tarlac might be a piece of cake to any rider but once they ply the route from Tarlac to Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, up to the twisted and mountainous roads of Aritao, the course might prove to be difficult. Especially when you are going at an average speed of 60-70 kilometers per hour under a very low visibility riding condition. Weather may drop to a chilling 12 degrees and occasional rains may make vehicles prone to slides, and possibly, mistakes that may cost them  the run.

 

It has been close to a decade since endurance runs became a popular motoring event among seasoned riders and drivers alike in the country.

 

Several motorists join but not all participants are able to finish the course. A number of participants quit in the middle of the race. Others encountered engine problems. Riders would figure in accidents.

 

In Jay's first attempt at Cannonball, he will join a group of fellow first timers.

 

As a newbie to any motor sporting event, will he be able to cross the finish line in time? Find out this January 17, Saturday on I-Witness!