Behind the “true story” of this iconic image lies a rider desperately wheel-sucking at the back of the lead pack to remain unseen, his handlebars already snapped after incessantly plowing through the rough Batangas roads.
The 1984 Rookie of the Year from Calauag, Quezon, Gerardo “Gerry” Igos, was in an eight-man breakaway during the Lucena City-Cavite City stage in Marlboro Tour ’87. He refused to take a pull despite the numerous demands made by some riders in the breakaway, mostly Pangasinenses.
“Kanina ka pa tago ng tago, pumalit ka naman,” demanded one frustrated rider. Yet, the 5’4″ tough cookie, Igos, kept offering continuous alibis, repeating: “Teka at nakain pa ako.”
Igos continued to procrastinate, hoping his support vehicle would arrive, but to no avail. It wasn’t until a white Land Cruiser carrying media—believed to be M1 Earl Sapelino—approached Igos on the break and asked about his handlebars.
Suddenly, the riders in the break learned of Igos’ predicament, a sight rarely seen in contemporary cycling. One rider blurted out, “Bali daw manibela ni Igos.” Alarmed, they quickly dispersed, leaving Igos in the cold which cost him a podium finish.
The rest is history.
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