The Pentekostes festivities in Bergara will commence in six days, and this year, the Lokatza Cycling School will have the honor of launching the opening firecracker. Following the descent of Bitorianatxo, five uninterrupted days of celebration will begin. "As residents of Bergara, we are proud to have been considered. It's a way for the town to thank us for the work we do," stated Ion Unamuno, the club's president. The organization marks its half-century, maintaining its core philosophy: providing young people with opportunities to engage in sports.
Lokatza Cycling School originated from a group of youngsters from Barrenkale in Bergara, initially intending to play football. Later, women's basketball, cross-country running, and skateboarding were also introduced, but cycling ultimately became its defining path, driven by the efforts of Fermín Hernández and Portu.
Over the past 50 years, generations of cyclists, collaborators, and directors have passed through the club. Among them are Juanito Suinaga, Jesús Kortabarria Kaxeta, Miguel Ángel Larrañaga, and Ion Unamuno himself. The club's operations are sustained primarily by its network of volunteers, closely linked to the memory of Pello Garitano.
Currently, Lokatza brings together 45 boys and girls across school, cadet, and junior categories. The club promotes cyclists from Bergara, Antzuola, and Elgeta, but also includes athletes from Arrasate, Aretxabaleta, and Aramaio, in addition to collaborations with Aloña and the Elgoibarko Lagun Taldea. Cycling, according to Unamuno, is "a tough and sacrificial sport," but also a valuable life lesson that fosters "camaraderie, teamwork, and helping others in need."
Lokatza organizes various events, such as the Bizikleta Festa, to bring the sport closer to the community. They have a packed schedule for the coming months: on May 29th, the ninth women's uphill time trial to San Martzial Bergara Hiria; on June 13th, the San Antonio time trial for male cadets; on June 20th, the Antzuola school race; and on October 3rd, the cyclotourist climb to Gorla in honor of Pello Garitano.
Looking ahead, the main challenge is to "strengthen the base and maintain a strong structure of volunteers," as emphasized by Unamuno. Next Friday, Bitorianatxo will descend from the bell tower of Santa Marina parish church, echoing half a century of dedication and the simple idea of community-driven sport.
