Go-For-Gold Philippines rider Thirdy Mana-ay delivered a powerful and inspiring performance at the Coupe du Japon – Yoshimuta Kumamoto MTB Festa 2025, securing a hard-fought 3rd place overall in the highly competitive XCO Men’s Junior category.
The race took place on a demanding 18km course (3.6km × 5 laps) that challenged even the most skilled riders. Despite a tough start caused by an early crash in the opening lap, Thirdy showed true resilience and determination — steadily working his way back into the race.
Clocking a final time of 1:05:10.56 at an impressive average speed of 18.4 km/h, he closed the gap on the frontrunners to take a well-earned podium finish. The race was ultimately won by Yuki Nakasendo (Fukaya Racing) in 1:01:56.76, with Kaiji Matsuyama (Sonic Racing) in 2nd (+2:22). Thirdy crossed the line just over three minutes behind the winner, a testament to his consistency, focus, and fighting spirit.
This remarkable result reinforces Mana-ay’s status as one of the Philippines’ rising stars in international mountain biking and reflects the continued progress of Go-For-Gold’s grassroots cycling program, which continues to nurture world-class talent and raise the Philippine flag in top-tier global races.
A massive congratulations to Thirdy and the entire Go-For-Gold team! 🇵🇭💪
Special thanks to our respected sponsors:
Scratchit | Go For Gold PH | Shimano-Road | Shimano-MTB | Storck Philippines | Storck Bicycle GmbH | Gatorade Philippines | Nutrition Depot Philippines | Gatorade | Magene | Magene Philippines | Booster C Energy Shot | Maxxis Bicycles PH | Neo Zigma PH | SPN Cycle PH | CCN Sport | Multisport Hub - Nuvali | Gears | Rudy Project Philippines | SUPACAZ
#GoForGoldPH #MTB #XCO #CoupeDuJapon #FilipinoCyclist #ProudlyPinoy #CyclingPH
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