Five Filipino endurance cyclists successfully completed the 2026 Alpi 4000, a grueling 400-kilometer mountain cycling challenge featuring more than 22,000 meters of elevation gain across the Alps and Dolomites.
This year’s route, which started and ended in Bormio, Italy, offered participants an unforgettable journey through some of Europe’s most iconic mountain passes. Despite several route changes, cyclists still conquered legendary climbs, including Stelvio, Gavia, Pordoi, Falzarego, and Bernina.
Five Filipino randonneurs joined the event, which demanded months of physical and mental preparation to endure the steep ascents and long-distance riding.
Among them was 51-year-old Gerald Herradura, an Ireland-based Filipino cyclist and experienced randonneur. To prepare for endurance events, Herradura regularly rides up to 200 kilometers on weekends with fellow members of Audax Ireland.
Herradura said what makes the Alpi 4000 unique is its emphasis on camaraderie rather than competition.
“I love the concept of this ride, where everyone is considered a winner and no one gets left behind. Enjoy kami, five Filipinos,” Herradura said.
Fresh from completing one of Europe’s toughest cycling challenges, the Filipino riders are now setting their sights on an even greater test of endurance, the Paris-Brest-Paris, a 1,200-kilometer randonnée in France that participants must complete within 90 hours.
