Tuesday, March 27, 2012

BEA MAXIMO: MY FIRST TRI

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Published in The Freeman Newspaper on March 27, 2012 Thursday issue
by Bea Maximo, Contributor
Manny Villaruel, Sports Editor


Swim, bike and run to the finish line. Last Sunday, I witnessed the very first triathlon held in Talisay. The race was one of the highlights of Talisay's commemoration of the American troops’ landing in the city. It consisted of a 1,000-meter swim, 30-kilometer bike and 7.5K run. There was also a mixed relay division for the adults, while the kids division had a 300m swim, 8K bike and 3K run.

As a spectator, you get all worked up and root for your favorites, screaming at the sidelines saying “dali, dali! kaya na nimo maapsan na ka!”, as one participant shouted back “dili lalim uy!” I then realized the determination and discipline every athlete had to possess for them to be able to surpass the gruelling swim, the exhausting bike ride and the draining run to the finish line was definitely not a walk in the park.

One does not go out into the battlefield unarmed and expect to emerge victorious that is why I salute every person who wore a tri suite that day because the mere fact that they had the courage to step up and achieve what the next person simply dreams of doing is just very inspirational.

Some people dream of success while others wake up and achieve it. Hats off to all the finishers of the First Talisay Triathlon, however in a race, winners must be crowned.

The author (C) with her siblings Luis Miguel (R) and Ana Patricia Maximo


I would like to quote Orison Swett Marden, “We fail to see that we can control our own destiny; make ourselves do whatever is possible; make ourselves become whatever we long to be”. These renowned beings controlled their own destiny and fought hard to garner a place in their division.

(Editor's note: The contributor is a 20-year-old Cebuana presently taking up Occupation Therapy in University of Sto. Tomas (UST). A football varsity player and a half-marathon finisher of Whidbey Island Marathon in Washington, USA and Cebu City Marathon, she came all the way from Manila to cheer for her siblings on their very first on-road triathlon race.)

BEA MAXIMO: A SALUTE TO TALISAY TRIATHLON FINISHERS

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Published in Sun Star Newspaper on March 27, 2012 Tuesday issue
by Bea Maximo, Contributor
Mike T. Limpag & Marian C. Baring, Editors


SWIM, bike and run to the finish line! Last March 25, 2012, I witnessed the very first triathlon held in Talisay. This race was one of the highlights of the City’s commemoration of the American troops’ landing in the city. It consisted of a 1,000-meter swim, 30-kilometer bike, 7.5K run and a mixed relay division for the adults, while the kids’ division had a 300-meter swim, 8-kilometer bike and 3-kilometer run.

As a spectator in these events, you get all worked up and root for your favorites, screaming at the sidelines saying, “Dali, dali! Kaya na nimo maapsan na ka!”

As one participant shouted back, “Dili lalim oy!” I then realized the determination and discipline every athlete had to possess for them to be able to surpass the grueling swim, the exhausting bike ride and the draining run to the finish line. It was definitely not a walk in the park.

One does not go out into the battlefield unarmed and expect to emerge victorious, that is why I salute every person who wore a tri suite that day because the mere fact that they had the courage to step up and achieve what the next person simply dreams of doing is just very inspirational.

Some people dream of success while others wake up and achieve it! Hats off to all the finishers of the First Talisay Triathlon, however in a race, winners must be crowned.

ALL IN THE FAMILY.  The author (center) with brother Luis Miguel and sister Ana Patricia.  Luis won the 19-under division, while Ana topped the 13-14 agegroup.

I would like to quote Orison Swett Marden: “We fail to see that we can control our own destiny; make ourselves do whatever is possible; make ourselves become whatever we long to be.” These renowned beings controlled their own destiny and fought hard to garner a place in their division.

(The author is a 20-year old Cebuana taking up Occupation Therapy in UST. A football varsity player and a runner, she came to all the way from Manila to cheer for her siblings on their very first on-road Triathlon race.)

Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on March 27, 2012.

Monday, March 26, 2012

LIM, TAN COLLAR TOP PLUMS IN 1ST TALISAY TRIATHLON RACE


TAN, LIM RULE TALISAY TRIATHLON

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Published in The Freeman Newspaper on March 26, 2012 Monday issue
by Caecent Magsumbol, Staff Writer
Manny Villaruel, Sports Editor

CEBU, Philippines - Rochelle Tan lived up to her billing as Cebu's new triathlon queen, while Kristiane Lim stunned the early favorites to rule the men's division of the inaugural Talisay City Triathlon yesterday.

Tan completed the race covering 1,000-meter swim, 30km bike and 7.5km run in two hours, 11 minutes and 29.72 seconds to romp off with the women's crown.

Hannah Lou Galo took the first runner-up honors in 2:12:49.31, while Lovelienell Casidsid could only make it to the third spot in 2:19:18.76.

Rochelle’s day was even made brighter as her dad Tyronne topped the men’s 40-49 action, even as her brothers Rafael and Rainer also made waves.

Tyrone Tan clocked in 1:53:10.42 to edge out Gandhi Truya (1:59:56.81) and Jay Pizarras (2:10:13.38). Rafael came out second in the kids 11-12 class won by Yuan Chiongbian, while Rainer won the relay event together with Victor Monsanto and Jessie Arriola, who was the first to finish the swim part of the three-in-one race.

Siblings Jebb and Jorgina Cane came out second in the relay, while Rhea Papas, Andre Pacheco and Eric Malimban placed third.

Lim, on the other hand, dominated the men’s open with the time of 1:39:57.88. He pulled off an upset over former Philippine Team member Gerrie Calinawan, who finished in 1:40:59.77. Franz Baguio settled for third with a 1:42:53.93 clocking.

Two comebacking Cebuano triathletes, Eugene Sanchez and Chris Aldeguer, posted a 1-2 finish in the 30-39 class. Sanchez posted the time of 1:50:24.89, while Aldeguer finished in 1:53:25.45. Ritchie Mataragnon ended up third in 1:55:43.18.

Sherwin Managil had a memorable debut in triathlon after dominating the 20-29 class with the time of 1:46:46.65 followed by Frederick Pahanonot (1:51:15.46) and Jarvis Jaranilla (1:57:30.35).

Douglas Sharpe was the best finisher in the 50-above action in 2:26:08.10 followed by Benhur Caderao (2:36:15.49) and Enrique Fenazas (2:56:48.34).

Two other siblings, Luis Miguel and Ana Patricia Maximo, also showcased their wares well even as they were unopposed in their respective classes.

Luis Miguel registered the time of 2:01:08.94 in the men's 19-under, while her younger sister Ana Patricia won the girls 13-14 category in 51 minutes and 4.89 seconds.

The Chiongbians also had a good time as aside from Yuan, his brother Justin Liam topped the boys 13-14 followed by Jezreel Tan.

The other age-group winners were Aaliyah Ricci Mataragnon (girls 11-12) and Nina Francesca Villaba (10-under). - THE FREEMAN

TANS TOP 1ST TALISAY TRIATHLON

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Published in Sun Star Newspaper on March 26, 2012 Monday issue
by Iste S. Leopoldo, Staff Writer
Mike Limpag, Sports Editor


EVERY triathlon race is a father-daughter bonding time for Rochelle and Tyrone Tan and serves as her motivation to top every triathlon race she joins, just like in the First Triathlon Race yesterday at the Talisay City New Fish Port.

Rochelle crossed the finish with her father Tyrone at her side in 2:11:29 and clinch the top spot in the women’s open. Hannah Lou N. Galo got second in 2:12:49, while Loveleinell F. Casidsid settled for third in 2:19:18.

Though Tyrone crossed the finish line with his daughter, it was his second time to do so as he finished the race in 1:53:10 to top the 40-49 men’s division over Gandhi Truya (1:59:56) and Jay M. Pizarras (2:10:13).

“Usually my father is the one who finishes first in his age group division and then he always comes back for me and it really helps especially if I am wearing out. Then when I see my dad, I feel like getting a boost because it means that I am already close to the finish line,” said the 19-year-old Rochelle, who admitted it was her father who motivated her to get into sports.

The men’s open division was won by Kristiane S. Lim in 1:39:57, while Gerrie Calinawan got second place in 1:40:59. Franz Baguio got third place in 1:42:53.

Relay

In the relay division, Victor Monsanto, Rainier Tan and Jessie Arriola topped the category with a time of 1:55:21, almost six minutes ahead of Jebb Lynus and Jorgina Cane, who finished in 2:01.06. Rhea Papas, Andre Pacheco and Eric C. Malimba got third place in 2:02.21.56.

In the 30-39 age group, Eugene Sanchez (1:50:24) got first over Vellum’s CEO and comebacking triathlete Chris Aldeguer (1:53:25) and Ritchie Mataragnon (1:55:43).

One of Cebu’s top runners, Moh Sherwin Managil, won his first triathlon race and topped the 20-29 age group in (1:46:16). He beat Frederick Pahanonot (1:51:15) and and Jarvis Nike B. Jaranilla (1:57:30). Douglas Sharpe won took the 50 and above title in 2:26.08 over Benhur Caderao (2:36:15) and Enrique C. Tenaza (2:56:48).

In the kids division, it was an all-family affair with Yuan and Justin Liam Chiongbian and Ana Patricia and Luis Miguel Maximo topping their divisions.

Yuan won the 11-12 in 42:32, while Justin Liam won the 13-14 in 40:13. Ana Patricia won her first race in the 13-14 in 51:04, while footballer-turned cyclist Luis Miguel topped the 19-below in 2:01:08. NiƱa Francesca Villaba got the 10-Under girls title in 55:08, while Aaliyah Ricci V. Mataragnon won the 11-12 division in 51:57.26.

Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on March 26, 2012.

Sunday, March 25, 2012

AFTER XTERRA LITE, IGIMAX HOPES TO MAKE WAVES IN TALISAY TRIATHLON


Published in The Freeman Newspaper on March 25, 2012 Sunday issue
Manny Villaruel, Sports Editor

What started as a race to survive became a race to the top.

16-year old Cebuano athlete Luis Miguel "Igimax" Maximo, the youngest participant of the XTerra Triathlon Lite last week at the picturesque Amara subdivision in Liloan, did not only grab the champion's trophy in  men's 15-19 category but also come out on top in the over-all standings.

"All I was aiming for was to finish the race.  Gikulba-an ko sa 500-meter swim since that was my first triathlon," beams the youngest member of the Philippine cycling team.

"I really did not expect the results, especially the swim leg which I did not feel any nervousness.  I think it has something to do when Tito John (Pages) assisted me during our practice swims.  It gave me enough confidence to swim in open water, dealing with the strong waves.  And I thank him for being patient with me," shared the eight-time Springdale Athlete of the Year awardee.


Young Cebuano XTerra warriors and good buddies Igi Maximo (left) and celebrity actor Matteo Guidicelli.  Maximo placed first in the men's 15-19 category, while Guidicelli grabbed the second place honors in the men's 20-24 class.


Bouyed by the encouraging result, Igimax will take it a notch higher when he joins the 1st Talisay Triathlon today.  The grueling race covers 1-kilometer swim, 30km bike and 7.5km run.

"I haven't tried a 1,000-meter swim before.  What I plan to do is swim the first 500-meter, cling on the bouys for 2-5 minutes to rest, then finish the remaining 500 meters.  It will be a slow swim, but I hope to make it up in the bike leg which I am more familiar with," revealed the two-time awardee of the Sportswriters Association of Cebu (SAC).

"My ultimate aim is to complete a 1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10km run Olympic distance triathlon," said Igimax, who recently graduated with honors in high school from PAREF Springdale.

In Talisay, Igimax will be joined by another member of TEAM maX1mo, 12-year old Ana Patricia "Icamax" Maximo, who will have her first triathlon consisting of a kiddie version of 300-meter swim, 8km bike and 3km run.

"My brother is my coach in cycling.  I'm excited but nervous in my first triathlon," said the student of Sacred Heart Hijas de Jesus.

1ST TALISAY TRIATHLON ON

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Published in Cebu Daily Newspaper on March 25, 2012 Sunday issue
by Mars Alison and Jonas Panerio
Rick Gabuya, Sports Editor


Following the success that he achieved on his first dive into triathlon, 16-year old sportsman Luis Miguel "Igi" Maximo will give it another shot as he competes in the 1st Talisay Triathlon today in Talisay City.

Maximo, the youngest member of the RP cycling team, actually made a huge splash on the triathlon circuit last weekend as he finished at the top in the Men's 15-19 category in the prestigious XTerra Lite Triathlon last Sunday in Liloan town, northern Cebu.

"All I was aiming for was to finish the race.  Gi kulba-an ko sa 500 meter swim since that was my first triathlon," said Maximo about his stint in Xterra.

"I really did not expect the results, especially the swim leg.  I didn't feel nervous and I think it had something to do when Tito John (Pages) assisted me during our practice swims.  It gave me enough confidence to swim in open water, dealing with the strong waves.  I thank him for being patient with me."

This time Maximo will try to take it up another notch as he tackles the 1-kilometer swim, 30-km bike and 7.5-km run in a route that takes participants all over the Talisay City.

Joining Maximo is another member of TEAM maX1mo, 12-year old Ana Patricia "Icamax" Maximo, who will have her first triathlon consisting of a kiddie version 300-meter swim, 8-km bike and 3-km run.

Today's race will be the gauge on whether or not this race will become an annual event for Talisay as part of its efforts to promote the city as a sports tourism hub.

Aside from triathlon, other events being contested as part of the American Landing Celebration are beach volleyball and horseshoe race./CORRESPONDENT MARS ALISON AND JONAS PANERIO

Thursday, March 22, 2012

PAGES: XTERRA EXPERIENCE

Sun Star Cebu.  Not only were the spectators nice but the pros were, too. Before Ben Allen zoomed past me, he signaled, “Will pass through the right!” As he—and the other pros—would zip through, they never failed to say, “Thank you” after the pass. Amazing. This is the beauty of this sport. You not only get to compete right beside the world’s elite—but they’re courteous and respectful... read more

LE TOUR LURES ELITE CAST OF RIDERS

PhilStar.  MANILA, Philippines - The cream of local cycling brace for a tough challenge from a crack international field, the scorching heat and the tough, demanding routes when the Le Tour de Filipinas hits the road from April 14-17 starting in Tuguegarao City in Cagayan Valley and ending in mountaintop Baguio City... read more

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

2012 XTERRA LITE - OVERALL RANKINGS

XTERRA LITE Philippines
500 meter Swim + 35 km MTB + 5 km Run
Liloan, Cebu, Philippines
Sunday, March 18, 2012

OVERALL STANDINGS

RANK BIB LAST NAME FIRST NAME CATEGORY SWIM BIKE RUN TOTAL

1   391 MAXIMO LUIS MIGUEL M 15-19 0:11:57 2:15:03 0:35:14   3:02:14
2   416 DELOS ANGELES RAYMAN M 35-39 0:14:49 2:15:12 0:33:58   3:03:59
3   441 CUISON JOSEPH M 45-49 0:19:55 2:09:19 0:35:32   3:04:45

4   398 HAW WESLEY IAN M 25-29 0:13:43 2:21:40 0:44:22   3:19:46
5   392 YAP WES CHRISTIAN M 20-24 0:15:41 2:06:41 0:58:37   3:20:59
6   397 ABUNDA KENNAN M 25-29 0:16:17 2:22:16 0:45:22   3:23:54
7   428 BARCENAS JUN M 40-44 0:12:02 2:39:57 0:38:35   3:30:34
8   393 GUIDICELLI MATTEO M 20-24 0:14:29 2:39:07 0:38:46   3:32:22
9   407 CALAYCA JAMES REY M 30-34 0:14:29 2:39:07 0:38:47   3:32:22
10 395 CABALLES DARYL JAY M 25-29 0:15:48 2:34:23 0:42:29   3:32:40

11 422 VILLANUEVA MARLON M 35-39 0:14:38 2:34:37 0:45:04   3:34:19
12 425 PAGES JOHN M 40-44 0:14:39 2:44:06 0:38:10   3:36:55
13 399 YAP GLENN M 25-29 0:12:01 2:32:38 0:54:12   3:38:51
14 418 DUTERTE ROCHE JOHN M 35-39 0:15:07 2:40:38 0:43:49   3:39:34
15 402 CULLEN CHRISTIAN LLOYD M 30-34 0:24:51 2:27:27 0:48:10   3:40:28
16 439 GUIDICELLI GIANLUCA M 50-54 0:14:11 2:50:24 0:36:52   3:41:28
17 404 FANTONIAL MARK DEXTER M 30-34 0:18:51 2:44:32 0:39:03   3:42:25
18 400 ALFEROS NOMAR M 25-29 0:21:03 2:28:57 0:53:28   3:43:27
19 438 CABRERA JOHN M 45-49 0:25:07 2:32:20 0:49:21   3:46:47
20 419 PERRAL GIFFORD JOHN M 35-39 0:14:19 2:53:43 0:44:02   3:52:04

21 420 HERBAS DARWIN M 35-39 0:19:46 2:45:22 0:48:56   3:54:04
22 423 GACUTAN ACE M 35-39 0:14:21 2:53:26 0:50:10   3:57:57
23 394 YAP RALPH M 20-24 0:14:28 2:50:59 0:53:26   3:58:53
24 431 SOLIS ALBERTO JR. M 40-44 0:15:36 2:54:46 0:50:27   4:00:49
25 406 FERNANDO MARK GIL M 30-34 0:27:46 2:46:16 0:50:00   4:04:02
26 417 PEREZ GARRY M 35-39 0:26:41 2:54:31 0:44:37   4:05:49
27 432 MIRANDA FRANCIS DINO M 40-44 0:18:42 3:02:59 0:47:02   4:08:42
28 413 PEREZ EARL FRANCES M 35-39 0:11:53 3:09:17 0:55:15   4:16:25
29 426 MONTEJO GEORGE M 40-44 0:15:22 3:16:46 0:51:38   4:23:46
30 430 PALERMO BERNARD M 40-44 0:21:43 3:09:51 0:55:21   4:26:55

31 396 TIU JOSHUA JOHN M 25-29 0:13:02 3:20:50 0:58:17   4:32:09
32 429 REGADO GLENN M 40-44 0:19:53 3:11:06 1:04:37   4:35:36
33 433 SULATRE ALEXIS M 45-49 0:18:46 3:38:01 0:49:32   4:46:20
34 434 BERTULFO MAGNO M 50-54 0:21:22 3:36:41 1:01:57   5:00:00
35 421 HO RICHARD MARIANO M 35-39 0:19:51 3:49:22 0:51:55   5:01:09
36 435 TAN FRANCISCO, JR. M 50-54 0:16:53 3:41:53 1:09:48   5:08:33

414 GARCIA RODRICK M 35-39 0:14:28 1:58:56 DNF
403 ENRIQUEZ II DANILO M 30-34 0:39:16 DNF
440 CARINO JP M 30-34 DNF
405 MANINGO GARY M 30-34 DNS
408 TIU FRANCIS VICTOR M 30-34 DNS
415 GO SANTIAGO ANTONIO M 35-39 DNS
427 LARRAZABAL GREGORIO M 40-44 DNS

Monday, March 19, 2012

IGIMAX FIRST TRI

XTERRA TRIATHLON LITE
March 18, 2012 7:00AM
Amara, Lilo-an, Cebu, Philippines

SWIM. 16-year old Luis Miguel "Igimax" Maximo (left), the youngest participant of the Xterra Tri, with good friend & fellow Cebuano actor Matteo Guidicelli, prior to the start of the 500meter swim leg.

SWIM. Finishing the 500meter open water swim in 10minutes using a Santini TriSuit with a Twist Gel technology.

TRANSITION. Shifting his focus from swim to the 35km bike leg.

BIKE. Negotiating the "Graveyard" downhill route wit his reliable and tough Kenda Nexcavator off-road tires.

BIKE. The tough and very technical course resulted in some crashing down the hill and others opting to dismount on their bikes to get past the downhill route.

BIKE. With Lilo-an's historical landmark - The Lighthouse, serving as the backdrop

RUN. Doing the last and final leg - the 5km run.  Photochromic eyewear lens technology by Lazer Argon

FINISH. The junior road cyclist completing his first-ever triathlon event in 3hrs 2mins 34secs.

Luis Miguel "Igimax" Maximo
CHAMPION
Men 15-19
XTerra Triathlon Lite


Thanks for the support Ridley, Campagnolo, Token, Lazer, Full Speed Ahead, Santini, Vision, Fizik, Carnac, Kenda, CycleOps, YKK Trading, John Montecillo, James Montecillo & Maximax

TAN BAGS ELITE TITLE


TAN ASCENDS THRONE AS TRIATHLON QUEEN

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Published in The Freeman Newspaper on March 19, 2012 Monday issue
by Caecent Magsumbol, Staff Writer
Manny Villaruel, Sports Editor


CEBU, Philippines - Cebu's fast-rising female triathlete Rochelle Tan caught everyone's attention not only with her sweet and affable looks but also with her superb athletic skills as she topped the all-Filipino elite women's division, while Neil Catiil of Cagayan de Oro City successfully defended his men's crown in the Vaseline Men XTerra Off-Road Triathlon Championships yesterday at the Amara subdivision in Liloan, Cebu.

The 18-year-old Tan finished the grueling race consisting of 1.5-kilometer swim, 30K bike and 10K trail run in four hours, 15 minutes and 10 seconds, way ahead of her only opponent Lovelienell Casidsid who clocked in 5:24:02.

“I did well in the run that even as I fell off four times, I still won,” said an ecstatic Tan.

While Tan had a difficulty in the bike course, Catiil banked on his off-road biking to clinch back-to-back championships in the men's side. He did that in the presence of the fancied Fil-Am Arland Macasieb.

“I was not pressured. I know my capacity as an athlete, so I just did what I had to do,” said Catiil, who crossed the finish line in two hours, 54 minutes and 47 seconds.

Had he competed in the pro category, Catiil would have been fourth overall. "Or couse I'm very happy because this is my first major race of the year," he said.

Cebu’s Elmo Clarabal was a distant second with the time of 3:02:38, but he still felt like a champion having outsmarted Macasieb, who ended up third in 3:07:11.

On the other hand, the combined forces of last year’s top swimmer Loren Dale Echavez, SEA Games gold medalist John Renee Mier and seasoned runner Mendel Lopez claimed the overall supremacy in the relay category, while Cebu's Team Reuben ruled the all-men relay competition.

The age-group winners in the men's division were Australia’s Daniel Neilson (25-29)), John Ronnel Uy (15-19), Benjamin Ramirez (20-24), Felipe Sajulga III (30-34), Canada’s Charles Fortier (35-39), Richard Santiago(40-44, France’s Jerome Geoerges (45-49), Juan Jose Bonnin (40-54) and Oscar Escudero(60-64).

The top finishers in the distaff side were Jemely Dinopo l(20-24), Italy’s Silva Tiezzi(35-39) and Lynda Scott(40-49).

In the XTerra Lite, multi-awarded Cebuano junior cyclist Luis Miguel Maximo was unopposed in the men’s 15-19 bracket. He still made sure though he had a good race by clocking in 3:02:14.

Maximo was joined in the winners' list by Wes Christian Yap (20-24), Wesley Ian Haw (25-29), James Rey Calayca(30-34), Rayman de los Angeles(35-39), Jun Barcenas (40-44) and Joseph Cuizon (45-49).

The female entries who made waves were Lendy Ann Salve (25-29), Camilla Brooks (30-34), Silva Fiezzi (35-39), Lynda Scott (45-49) and Yasue Yoshimi (40-49).

TAN BAGS ELITE TITLE


Published in Sun Star Newspaper on March 19, 2012 Monday issue
by Iste Leopoldo, Staff Writer
Mike Limpag, Sports Editor


XTERRA Guam champion Ben Allen and 2011 world championships fourth-placer Renata Bucher bagged the men’s and women’s pro division titles in the Vaseline Xterra Off-road Triathlon Series yesterday in Liloan, Cebu.

Defending champion Neil Catiil also topped the men’s Filipino elite division, while rising star Rochelle Tan topped the women’s division.

“I consider the terrain as one of the toughest parts of the whole course because you need to be 110 percent focused or else you will end up crashing. I had a great ride and the rocky graveyard portion, which was downhill, was my favorite. It suits my style of riding, I was just riding with the wind today,” Allen said.

It wasn’t an easy ride for Allen as he encountered a flat tire, allowing Olivier Marceau to catch up with him, but Allen didn’t give up and took the lead again.

“I am definitely coming back next year to defend my title,” he said. “Next week I will be competing in Xterra Saipan and I hope that I can still have a good performance there.”

Allen clocked 2:30.05 to secure the title over Marceau (2:32.22), while Cedric Lassonde got third in 2:32.38.

Others top finishers in the pro division were Graham Wadsworth (2:42:08), Branden Rakita (2:43:43), Thomas J. Vonach (2:44:45), Will Kelsay (2:45:10), Takakiro Ogasawara (2:51:46) and Matthew O’Holloran (2:53:05).

On the other hand, Bucher crossed the finish line in 2:53:33, almost three minutes ahead of Jacqui Slack (2:56:39), while Darelle Parker was a distant third in 3:29.44.

In the Filipino Elite, Catiil kept his title in 2:54:47, beating Elmo Clarabal (3:02:08) and Arland Macasieb (3:07:11).

“Last year, I had a flat tire and had a problem with my bike, which was one of the big factors why I settled for fifth. I am happy that I was able to improve my finish this year,” said Clarabal.

Tan secured the female elite division title this year in 4:19:10, more than an hour ahead of Loveneil Casidsid (5:24:02).

“It was so amazing. I feel so happy. I encountered several bike crashes, four times I believe, at the graveyard,” said the 19-year-old Tan, who started triathlon just two years ago.

Other winners yesterday were John Ronnel Uy (15-19), Benjamin Ramirez (20-24), Daniel Neilson (25-29), Felipe III Sajulga (30-34), Charles Fortier (35-39), Richard Santiago (40-44), Jerome George (45-49),Jose Ricardo Dizon (55-59),Oscar Escuder (60-64).

In the female division, the age group winners were Jemely Dinopol (20-24), Pen Nepomuceno (25-19), Camilla Brooks (30-34), Silvia Tiezzi (35-39), Lynda Scott (45-49) and Yoshimi Yasue (40-44).

Sen. Pia Cayetano also finished second in her division, In the Lite triathlon, which had a shorter distance, the winners were West Christian Yap (20-24), Luis Miguel Maximo (15-19), James Rey Calayca (30-34), Rayman Delos Angeles (35-39), Joseph Cuison (45-49).

Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on March 19, 2012.

Friday, March 16, 2012

LEARN TO TAKE RISKS

ATHLETES NIGHT SPEECH
By Igi Maximo, Titan awardee



Mr. Ampiloquio, Mr. Mendoza, Mr. Rosal, Mr. Dante, Mr. Cabuguas, teachers and staff.  My dear parents and friends.  My fellow awardees.

Sport teaches me a lot of things.  Allow me to share them with you especially to the younger Titans.

The first one is to love your sport.  Never do it to please someone else.  It has to be your choice… it has to be your passion.

Defeats are like fire.  It can destroy or strengthen you, depending on your outlook in life.  But remember, the fire that melts the butter is the same fire that hardens the steel.

Champions are not made in the gym.  Champions are made from something they have deep inside them – a desire, a dream, a vision.

The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary. And remember, when you are not practicing, someone, somewhere, is practicing and when you meet him, he will win. This goes to show how important hard work and sacrifice is.

Being a student and an athlete at the same time is not easy … it takes a lot of hard work, sacrifice, determination and proper time management on both our school work and training schedules.  We could not have done this without the support of our parents and our school, PAREF Springdale.

In behalf of all the awardees, let me thank our school for giving us the opportunity to learn things outside the four walls of our classrooms.  You encourage us to explore on extra-curricular activities such as sports, without having to give up on our academics.  Your all-out support and understanding by excusing us from our classes yet allowing us to make up for our absences is such a privilege that not all student-athletes from other schools enjoy.
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This is probably the reason why most of us, Springdale athletes, if not all, excel in our sports.  We learned how to balance both our chosen sport and our studies.
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We thank you, teachers, for shaping our character and making us the kind of student-athletes that we are today.  We really appreciate and will forever be grateful for the opportunities you opened up for us not only academically but also in the field of sports.

And of course, to all our parents, we thank you for your unconditional love.  Thank you for the support and sacrifices you have given us to make things possible and for always being there for us, no matter what.

Let me end this by sharing with you my “3 Simple Rules in Life”:

- If you do not GO after what you want … you will never have it.
- If you do not ASK … the answer will always be a no.
- If you do not step FORWARD … you will always be in the same place.

Learn to TAKE risks … and see where your brave heart can take you!

God bless the Titans!  Good evening.

LAZER EYEWEAR




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Thursday, March 15, 2012

IGI TO VIE IN XTERRA TRIATHLON

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Published in Cebu Daily Newspaper on March 15, 2012 Thursday issue
by Jonas Penerio, Correspondent
Rick Gabuya, Sports Editor

PRODIGIOUS Cebuano cyclist Luis Miguel "Igi" Maximo will try his luck out at another sport when he competes in the Lite class of the Vaseline Men Xterra Off-Road Triathlon this Sunday at the municipality of Liloan.

Maximo, the youngest member of the RP cycling team at 16 years old, will be doing the "lite" version of the triathlon which consists of a 500 meter swim, a 30 kilometer bike and a five kilometer run.

The regular triathlon race on Sunday consists of a 1.5km swim, 35km bike and 10km run through a treacherous off-road course.  Those competing in this race include several world champions such as Swiss Oliver Marceau, a three-time European champion, Australian Ben Allen, Brandon Rakita of the USA and Doug Hall of the United Kingdom.  On the distaff side, some of the pros expected to compete are Carina West of Austria and Daz Parker and Jacqui Slack of the UK.

"Medyo naa kulba gamay.  The 5km is okay.  I think I can finish it.  I can also use my road cycling skills in the 35km mountainbike though it requires different bike handling skills for off-road terrain.  It is in the 500 meter open water swim that will pose a big challenge for me," said the PAREF Springdale youngster./CORRESPONDENT JONAS PANERIO

Thursday, March 08, 2012

LE TOUR DE FILIPINAS KICKS OFF IN CAGAYAN


MANILA - The 2012 Le Tour de Filipinas kicks off April 14 to 17 in Sta. Ana, Cagayan and winds up at the Burnham Park in Baguio City.

This year’s edition of the multi-stage road cycling summer spectacle will culminate in an unfamiliar but extremely more challenging stage, passing through what is called the “Northern Alps,” a mountain-top ride on the Cordilleras approaching the summer capital.

Three treacherous climbs not lower than 5,000 feet will test cyclists from 10 international teams from Europe, Asia and five from the Philippines.

“The first three stages of the four-stage international race are a sprinters’ paradise, but come the ‘Northern Alps,’ the complexion of the race drastically and dramatically changes. This is where you separate the men from the boys,” said Dos-1 president and race organizer Gary Cayton.

Stage One will start in Port Irene in Sta. Ana, Cagayan, with Cagayan Rep. Jackie Enrile flagging off the riders to their destination 155 kilometers away in Tuguegarao City. Stage Two will cover 110 kilometers from Tuguegarao to Cauayan City, while Stage Three will be a short 102-km ride to Bayombong, enough to prepare the riders for the treacherous 153-km race to Baguio City the next day.

Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on March 08, 2012.

Saturday, March 03, 2012

SAC TO FETE CEBU'S BEST


Published in Sun Star Newspaper on Mar. 3, 2012 Saturday issue
Pooled Report
Mike Limpag, Sports Editor


THEY provided color and drama to Cebu sports last year for their stirring exploits in their respective disciplines.

Now it’s their time to shine again. The best and brightest stars of Cebu sports in 2011 will finally get that well-deserved recognition during the 30th Sportswriters Association of Cebu-San Miguel Corp. (SAC-SMC) All-Cebu Sports Awards at The Terraces of Ayala Center Cebu, which will have Philippines Sports Commissioner Joaquin “Chito” Loyzaga as the guest of honor and keynote speaker.

The other highlight of the affair is the handing out of the “Sportsman of the Year” award to Harry Don Radaza, the architect behind Lapu-Lapu City’s swift transformation into an international sports hub.

Radaza help bring two Davis Cup ties in Mactan just months apart and also started a unique physical fitness program among the Oponganons by holding a weekly, barangay-based running event in their area.

Sports patron Raffy Senining will be the recipient of the Orlando C. Sanchez Memorial Award while a Posthumuous Award is up for the late Merlinda Ponce, a running buff who made her mark as an ultra-marahoner before her tragic death.

On the other hand, two-division world boxing champion Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, Southeast Asian (SEA) Games cycling gold medallist John Rene Mier, chess Grandmaster Richard Bitoon, running queen Mary Grace de los Santos, and billiards master Rubilen Amit will also take centerstage in the ceremony that will start at 3:30 p.m.

The rest of the major awardees are Julius Nierras (athletics), Dondon Sombrio (archery), Roel Empacis, Jonas Ponce, Darius Bacarisas, Jeromeo Bacarisas, Jasper Cabrera, Ben Maravilles and Oscar Bradshaw (baseball/football), University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters, University of the Visayas (UV) Baby Lancers and Greg Slaughter (basketball), Ronnan Barredo and Alexis Sy (bowling), WBO Vice President for the Asia and Pacific Leon Panoncillo, NiƱo Surban (cycling). Don Bosco Technology Center (football), Kiyomi Watanabe (judo), Orencio James de los Santos (karatedo), Johnlery Caniga (Mixed Martial Arts), Teodoro Martus (scrabble), Beariza Roble (swimming), Glenn Lava (taekwondo), Richard Gonzales (table tennis) and Christopher Bureros (weightlifting).

Citations

They are all contenders for the coveted Athlete of the Year award.

Those who will be given special citations are Irene Baluran and Ernesto YbaƱez (athletics), David G. Lim (autocross), Banilad Elementary School and UC (badminton), Jesse Bernad (batted sports), Britt Carlo Reroma, Jerie Marlon Pinggoy, Dawn Henric Ochea, Aldrich Ramos, Julio Sy, Jr., SHS-Ateneo Passerelle Team, June Mar Fajardo and Andres Paul Desiderio (basketball), Apple Eve Saraum, Erika Camille Verano and University of Southern Philippines Foundation (beach volley), Cebu Tenpin Bowling Association (CETBA), Milan Melindo, Rey Bautista, AJ Banal, Rocky Fuentes, Sammy Gello-ani, Jack Tepora and Daryl Pucdol (boxing), IM Kim Steven Yap, Cebu Executives and Professionals Chess Association (chess), Luis Miguel “Igimax” Maximo (cycling), Luis Ansag (dragon boat), Dancesport Team Cebu City, Jun Santillan, Jose Paolo Aragon Pascual and Oliver Colina (football), and Lloyd Jefferson Go and Gio Gandionco (golf).

The rest of the honorees are Carmelli Garrovillo and the University of the Visayas (UV) Gymnastics Team, Eichi Yahata (judo), Jette Calderon (karting), Jon Eleazar Adlawan (motocross), Marnel Dimla (pencak silat), Merlita Arias-Dunkin, Bayani Alvarez, Emily Chiongbian, Mary Joy Tabal and Mendel Lopez (running), Noel Flowers, Rose Mae Lanticse, Marie Antonette Gambito, Madille Salinas, Blessie Kate de los Santos, Aiumi Ono, Eloisa Jordan, Mae Ann Ubaub, Ann Kristine Mae Layumas and Jessica Filoteo (rubgy), Rhey Jey Ortouste (sepak takraw), Anthony Linn Navarro (swimming), Daniel Jay Tormis (table tennis), Jacob Lagman, Arthur Craig Pantino and Cebu International Tennis Center, Inc. (lawn tennis) and Noy Jopson, Rochelle Tan and Lorhiz Echavez-Lopez (triathlon). (Pooled Report)

Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on March 03, 2012.

Thursday, March 01, 2012

MAXIMO FINISHES 10TH IN ASIAN JUNIOR CYCLING

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Published in Cebu Daily Newspaper on Feb. 29, 2012 Wednesday issue
by Jonas Panerio, Correspondent
Rick Gabuya, Sports Editor


LUIS MIGUEL "Igi" Maximo came away with precious experience and exposure as he competed in the 2012 Asian Junior Cycling Championships and finished in 10th place in his age group during the 115-kilometer road race in Malaysia.

Maximo, the youngest member of the Philippine team at 16, finished in 18th place amongst all the Asean riders and 45th place overall.

The race was won by Japanese Hiroki Nishimura and Yuri Kobashi, respectively, with Chun Wing Leung of Hong Kong collecting the bronze medal.

The trio had a photo finish with nearly identical times of 2 hours 45 mins and 44 seconds, clocking an average speed of 41.71kph in a 115.2km distance of 9 laps around the city roads of Putra Jaya, Malaysia.

"I was hoping for a top ten finish but was not really that confident because I am still young for the event and still lack the international exposure.  I also did not have enough time to practice in Manila because I don't want to miss my studies here in Cebu," said the graduating student of PAREF Springdale School./CORRESPONDENT JONAS PANERIO.

SOLVING OUR TRAFFIC WOES, TWO WHEELS AT A TIME

Philippine Star.  First of all, a bicycle is a vehicle. Meaning that once it is ridden on public roads, it is subject to the same road rules. That means that we cannot run red lights, stop signs and the like. We cannot ride counterflow to the traffic or make illegal turns.

In return, however, we must be given the same respect as every road user. Technically speaking, we are entitled to one lane, although we will rarely (if ever) exercise that right for the sole reason that less is more. If we take up less of the road, there’s more for everybody. So go ahead, feel free to take it, but please, just don’t act like you own it... Read more