PHILIPPINE DUATHLON SERIES

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March 25, 2012 6:00AM

Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Phl

IGIMAX REVEALS KEY TO BALANCING SPORTS AND ACADEMICS

Published in The Freeman Newspaper on Feb. 10, 2012 Friday issue

by Manny Villaruel, Sports Editor

Cebu, Philippines - Hardwork and fortitude. These are the driving force that enables the bemedalled Cebuano cyclist Luis Miguel 'Igimax" Maximo to balance sports and academics.

Maximo gamely admitted that had it not been for his perseverance, he would not have hurdled the rigors and tough demands of being a member of the Philippine Team.

And by his example, Maximo wants to prove that being a student and an elite athlete at the same time is very much possible.

"If you believe in yourself and have the determination and drive, and if you are willing to sacrifice and pay the price for the things that are worthwhile, it can be done," said Maximo.

For his gradual rise to cycling stardom, Maximo has a lot to thank for particularly his ever supportive alma mater - Paref Springdale - where he is currently the Student Council President, and to his generous sponsors that include the Cebu-based YKK Trading, Ridley, Campagnolo, Token, FSA, Vision, Lazer, Fizik, Kenda, Carnac and Santini.

"Paref Springdale has given its all-out support by excusing me from classes whenever I train in Manila and join competitions abroad," said Maximo, who used to be the skipper of Springdale Football Team.

Maximo, 16, is the youngest and the only Cebuano member of the Philippine U-23 and Junior teams that will see action in the 2012 Asian Cycling Championships set from February 8 to 18 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The teams were organized and formed by the UCI-recognized PhilCycling under its president and Tagaytay City Mayor Bambol Tolentino.

"We want to bring youthful riders to Malaysia since we believe that they are our future cycling stars who will evetually make their mark in international competitions," said Tolentino.

Maximo will leave for Malaysia on February 11 to acclimatize and to study and assess the race venue including its terrain, climate and wind conditions among others. The Road Race event, of which Maximo will be the country's representative, is set on February 16.

As an athlete, it will be Igimax's first international stint since he made it to the Phl squad just two months ago. (FREEMAN)

CEBUANO CYCLING STAR MAXIMO TO VIE IN ASIAN CYCLING CHAMPIONSHIP

Published in Cebu Daily News on Feb. 9, 2012 Thursday issue
by Jonas Panerio, Correspondent
Rick Gabuya, Sports Editor

CEBUANO junior cyclist Luis Miguel "Igi" Maximo will get his first shot at international glory when he competes in the Asian Cycling Championships which starts this weekend in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Maximo, a student of PAREF Springdale was selected to be part of the Philippine national squad that was organized and formed by PhilCycling under the mentorship of Tagaytay City Mayor, Bambol Tolentino.

Maximo, who is being backed by YKK Bikes, will be racing in the road race event on Feb. 16.  He will be leaving this Saturday to study and assess the race conditions over in Malaysia.  The feat is an impressive one for the 16-year old as he is the youngest member of the squad and the only cyclist from the Visayas and Mindanao to make it to the team.

"We want to bring youthful riders to Malaysia since we believe that they are our future cycling stars who will eventually make their mark in international competitions," PhilCycling president Bambol Tolentino said in a statement.

"If you believe in yourself and have the determination and drive, and if you are willing to sacrifice and pay the price for the things that are worthwhile, it can be done," said the young Cebuano cyclist./CORRESPONDENT JONAS PANERIO

HUGE FIELD READY TO ENDURE XTERRA OFF-ROAD TRIATHLON

Phil Star Newspaper.  Manila, Philippines - Considered the world’s premier off-road triathlon event, the series will test participants in the Pang Rave Run on Feb. 26 in San Mateo, Rizal; the XTERRA Weekend, highlighted by world-class competition in ocean swim-mountain bike trail ride-trail run, on March 17-18 in scenic Liloan, Cebu; and Putik Pare, a race on mud, in Clark on Nov. 18...

The Pang Rave Run will kick off the hostilities, testing runners in a demanding trail run (22, 10, and 5K categories) amid the magnificent views of Timberland Heights in San Mateo, Rizal.

The series then goes to Liloan, Cebu for the main event, the Vaseline Men XTERRA Weekend. This two-day gig is headlined by the XTERRA Phl Championship Triathlon and Trail Run, where 40 tickets to the XTERRA Off-Road triathlon world championship slated October in Maui, Hawaii, to the and XTERRA Trail Run world championship in December in Oahu, Hawaii, will be up for grabs.

Capping the series will be the Putik Pare, which will see participants in a duathlon relay, going through a trail run and mountain bike ride ending with now famous Putik Pit... Read more

WATCH IGIMAX RISING

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Published in Sun Star Newspaper on Feb. 8, 2012 Wednesday issue
by Iste S. Leopoldo, Staff Writer
Marian Baring, Sports Editor this issue

CEBU’S rising junior cyclist Luis Miguel “Igimax” Maximo of YKK Bikes joins the Philippine National U-23 and junior teams to represent the country in the 19th Asian Junior Cycling Championships starting today until Feb. 18 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Sixteen-year-old Igimax is the youngest member of the Philippine National Cycling team and the youngest RP delegate to the Asian Cycling Championships.

“Actually, he is the only junior cyclist from Cebu, Visayas and Mindanao who made it to the Philippine National Cycling Team,” Jonathan Maximo, his father, said.

Igimax, who is a graduating student of Paref Springdale, has an advocacy to prove that an athlete can also be an effective student, as long as he knows time management. He wants to prove that no matter how hard the demands of being an elite athletecan be, quitting school was never an option.

“In spite of the demands of being a member of the national team, like the need to go to Manila to train with the team, going back and forth from Cebu to Manila many, many times, he never quit school,” Jonathan said.

Igimax will depart on Feb. 11 to recon the race venue—its terrain, climate, wind conditions and more. The road race will be on Feb. 16 in Kuala Lumpur.

This is Igimax’s first international stint since becoming a member of the RP team last December 14, 2011.

Igimax is still eligible to compete in next year’s 2013 Asian Cycling Championships.

“At first, he only dreamt of being included in the National Pool so that he can get a more serious, high-level training in Manila. He surprisingly made it to the Philippine National Cycling Team starting December 2011 at 16 years old,” Jonathan said.

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

STEPS TAKEN TO SETTLE FOOTBALL TIFF

Published in Sun Star Newspaper on Feb. 6, 2012 Monday issue
by Cheska D. Geli, Staff Writer
Mike Limpag, Sports Writer

STEPS have been taken to resolve the dispute between the Paref-Springdale and Cebu Football Association (CFA).

Both parties met yesterday to discuss CFA’s decision to slap Springdale with a three-year ban after the latter pulled all of its teams out of the Aboitiz Cup.

Both parties were adamant in disclosing what went on in the meeting but both confirmed that the meeting was part of the efforts to settle the issue amicably.

Spingdale was represented by its football club head coach Mario Ceniza, accompanied by some parents, while the CFA was represented by its president Richard Montayre and board members Eleazar Toledo and Eugene Ynclino.

"It was okay. (What we are doing is) for the good of football," Toledo said.

Ceniza mentioned that the meeting went well as both parties were given a chance to air out their sides.

"It went fine. We were given a chance to voice out our concerns," said Ceniza.

Former Cebu Football Association President Jonathan Maximo is happy with this development to settle the matter on the banning of Paref Springdale.

"It's good. I'm happy with the development. As a previous head of the CFA board, it saddens me that such issues had to happen," said Maximo.

However, he is positive that based on the reactions and comments from people, the issue will be resolved.

"I'm sure a solution can be found. We are just one group under one sport," said Maximo.

“At the end of the day, we need to go back to the reason why we are here and that’s to let the sport of football grow,” he added.  Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on February 06, 2012.

RUN FOR INTEGRITY, BCBP WAY

RUN FOR INTEGRITY

Feb. 5, 2012 Sunday

The Terraces, Ayala Center, Cebu

BROTHERHOOD OF CHRISTIAN BUSINESSMEN & PROFESSIONALS (BCBP)

Cebu Central Chapter

HONORING CEBU'S BEST

Published in Sun Star Cebu Newspaper on Feb. 5, 2012 Sunday issue
Pooled Report
Mike Limpag, Sports Editor

The Sportswriters Association of Cebu (SAC) will hold its 30th annual SAC-San Miguel Brewery All-Cebu Sports Awards on March 3 at the Ayala Center Cebu Terraces.

This year's batch will be led by Cebuano athletes who won medals in the Southeast Asian Games last year and the country's latest grandmaster in chess.

Among those who are set to receive major awards this year are Southeast Asian Games medalists Julius Nierras, Dondon Sombrio, Rubilen Amit, Gregory Slaughter, Roel Empaces, Jonas Ponce, Jasper Cabrera, Ben Maravilles, Oscar Bradshaw, Darius and Jerome Bacarisas, John Mier, Nino Surban, Kiyomi Watanabe, Richard Gonzales and Orencio James delos Santos.

Also set to receive major awards are Richard Bitoon, who became the country's 16th grandmaster last year, Raffy Senining, Harry Don Radaza, the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters, the University of the Visayas (UV) Baby Lancers, bowling champion Ronnan Barredo, two-division world champion Donnie Nietes, the Don Bosco Technology Center (DBTC) high school football team, Teodoro Martus, Beariza Roble, Glenn Lava, and Milo Marathon national finals women's champion Mary Grace delos Santos.

The major awardees are automatic candidates for the Athlete of the Year award, which will be announced on March 3.

Ultramarathoner Melinda Ponce, who died last year, will also get a posthumous award for her contribution to the sport.

"We congratulate all the awardees for an outstanding 2011," said SAC President John Pages.  "The awards night is extra special because it's our 30th year.  We plan to showcase a very memorable and exciting night for all the awardees."

Aside from the major awardees, SAC, will also hand out citations for the achievers last year and to those who have helped promote their sport.

Among those who will receive citations are Palarong Pambansa medalists Irene Baluran and Ernesto Ybanez, three-time driver of the year David G. Lim, the Banilad Elementary School and UC high school badminton teams, Britt Carlo Reroma, Jerie Marlon Pingoy, Dawn Hynric Ochea, Aldrich Ramos, Julio Sy Jr., Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu passerelle team, June Mar Fajardo, Andres Paul Desiderio, University of Southern Philippines Foundation's beach volleyball team's Apple Eve Saraum and Erika Camille Verano, Cebu Tenpin Bowling Association, Milan Melindo, Rey Bautista, AJ Banal, Rocky Fuentes, Sammy Gello-ani, Leon Panoncillo, Kim Steven Yap, Luis Maximo, Luis Ansag and Dancesport Team Cebu City.

Footballer Jose Paolo Aragon Pascual, who made the national senior team, will also receive a citation along with national team coaches Oliver Colina, Glenn Ramos, national champion DBTC elementary football team, Lloyd Jefferson Go, Carmelli Garrovillo, the UV gymnastics team, Eichi Yahata, Jonlery Caniga, Jon Eleazar Adlawan, Marnel Dimla, Merlita Arias-Dunkin, Bayani Alvarez, Emily Chiongbian, Mary Joy Tabal, rugby's 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.

Rhey Jey Ortouste, the youngest member of the national sepak takraw team, will also be feted along with Anthony Linn Navarro, Daniel Jay Tormis, Jacob Lagman, Arthur Craig Pantino, Cebu International Tennie Center, Inc., Noy Jopson, Rochelle Tan, Lorhiz Echavez-Lopez.

Baseball and softball patron Jesse Bernad, who helped form a Cebu little league team and helped bring in Major League Baseball legend Ken Griffey Jr., will also be cited for his contribution along with Canduman Elementary School's Jun Santillan , who helped start the football program of Canduman and the Mandaue Technical Institute.  Pooled Report

SAC TO FETE CEBUANO SPORTS ACHIEVERS

Published in The Freeman Newspaper on Feb. 5, 2012 Sunday issue

Pooled Report

Manny Villaruel, Sports Editor

CEBU, Philippines - The outstanding achievers in Cebu sports during the past year will formally be feted come the 30th San Miguel Corporation-Sporwriters Association of Cebu (SMC-SAC) All-Cebu Sports Awards on March 3 at The Terraces of Ayala Center Cebu.

This year’s batch of honorees will be led by Cebuano athletes who won medals in the 2011 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Palembang, Indonesia and the newest Cebuano grandmaster in chess.

Set to receive major awards are SEAG medallists Julius Nierras, Dondon Sombrio, Rubilen Amit, Gregory Slaughter, Roel Empacis, Jonas Ponce, Jasper Cabrera, Ben Maravilles, Oscar Bradshaw, Darius and Jerome Bacarisas, John Rene Mier, Nino Surban, Kiyome Watanabe, Richard Gonzales and Orencio James de los Santos.

They will be joined by Richard Bitoon, the country's 16th chess grandmaster, Raffy Senining, Harry Don Radaza, the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters, the University of the Visayas (UV) Baby Lancers, bowling champion Ronnan Barredo, two-division world boxing champion Donnie Nietes, the Don Bosco Technology Center high school football team, Teodoro Martus, Beariza Roble, Glenn Lava, and National Milo Marathon women’s champion Mary Grace de los Santos.

The major awardees are automatic candidates for the Athlete of the Year award, which will be announced on the big night.

Ultramarathoner Melinda Ponce, who died last year, will get a posthumous award for her contribution to long distance running.

SAC will also hand out citations to those who have helped promote their respective sports.

They are Palarong Pambansa medallists Irene Baluran and Ernesto Ybañez, three-time Driver of the Year David G. Lim, Banilad elementary and UC high school badminton teams, Britt Carlo Reroma, Jerie Marlon Pingoy, Dawn Hynric Ochea, Aldrich Ramos, Julio Sy Jr., Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu passerelle team, June Mar Fajardo, Andres Paul Desiderio, beach volley players Apple Eve Saraum and Erika Camille Verano, Cebu Tenpin Bowling Association, Milan Melindo, Rey Bautista, AJ Banal, Rocky Fuentes, Sammy Gello-ani, Leon Panoncillo, Kim Steven Yap, Luis Miguel Maximo, Luis Ansag and Dancesport Team Cebu City.

The rest of the awardees include footballer Jose Paolo Aragon Pascual, coaches Oliver Colina and Glenn Ramos, Don Bosco elementary football team, Lloyd Jefferson Go, Carmelli Garrovillo, UV gymnastics team, Eichi Yahata, Jonlery Caniga, Jon Eleazar Adlawan, Marnel Dimla, Merlita Arias-Dunkin, Bayani Alvarez, Emily Chiongbian, Mary Joy Tabal, 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.

Rhey Jey Ortouste, the youngest member of the national sepak takraw team, will also be feted along with Anthony Linn Navarro, Daniel Jay Tormis, Jacob Lagman, Arthur Craig Pantino, Cebu International Tennis Center, Inc., Noy Jopson, Rochelle Tan and Lorhiz Echavez-Lopez.

Baseball and softball patron Jesse Bernad will also be cited along with Canduman Elementary School’s Jun Santillan and the Mandaue Technical Institute (MTI).—Pooled report - (THE FREEMAN)

SAC-SMC BARES LIST OF AWARDEES FOR MARCH 3 FETE

Published in Cebu Daily News on Feb. 5, 2012 Sunday issue
Pooled Report
Rick Gabuya, Sports Editor


The Sportswriters Association of Cebu (SAC) will hold its 30th annual SAC-San Miguel Brewery All-Cebu Sports Awards on March 3 at the Ayala Center Cebu Terraces.

This year's batch will be led by Cebuano athletes who won medals in the Southeast Asian Games last year and the country's latest grandmaster in chess.

Among those who are set to receive major awards this year are Southeast Asian Games medalists Julius Nierras, Dondon Sombrio, Rubilen Amit, Gregory Slaughter, Roel Empaces, Jonas Ponce, Jasper Cabrera, Ben Maravilles, Oscar Bradshaw, Darius and Jerome Bacarisas, John Mier, Nino Surban, Kiyomi Watanabe, Richard Gonzales and Orencio James delos Santos.

Also set to receive major awards are Richard Bitoon, who became the country's 16th grandmaster last year, Raffy Senining, Harry Don Radaza, the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters, the University of the Visayas (UV) Baby Lancers, bowling champion Ronnan Barredo, two-division world champion Donnie Nietes, the Don Bosco Technology Center (DBTC) high school football team, Teodoro Martus, Beariza Roble, Glenn Lava, and Milo Marathon national finals women's champion Mary Grace delos Santos.

The major awardees are automatic candidates for the Athlete of the Year award, which will be announced on March 3.

POSTHUMOUS AWARD

Ultramarathoner Melinda Ponce, who died last year, will also get a posthumous award for her contribution to the sport.

Aside from the major awardees, SAC will also hand out citations to Palarong Pambansa medalists Irene Baluran and Ernesto Ybanez, three-time driver of the year David G. Lim, the Banilad Elementary School and UC high school badminton teams, Britt Carlo Reroma, Jerie Marlon Pingoy, Dawn Hynric Ochea, Aldrich Ramos, Julio Sy Jr., Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu passerelle team, June Mar Fajardo, Andres Paul Desiderio, University of Southern Philippines Foundation's beach volleyball team's Apple Eve Saraum and Erika Camille Verano, Cebu Tenpin Bowling Association, Milan Melindo, Rey Bautista, AJ Banal, Rocky Fuentes, Sammy Gello-ani, Leon Panoncillo, Kim Steven Yap, Luis Maximo, Luis Ansag and Dancesport Team Cebu City.

Footballer Jose Paolo Aragon Pascual, who made the national senior team, will also receive a citation along with national team coaches Oliver Colina, Glenn Ramos, national champion DBTC elementary football team, Lloyd Jefferson Go, Carmelli Garrovillo, the UV gymnastics team, Eichi Yahata, Jonlery Caniga, Jon Eleazar Adlawan, Marnel Dimla, Merlita Arias-Dunkin, Bayani Alvarez, Emily Chiongbian, Mary Joy Tabal, rugby's 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.

Rhey Jey Ortouste, the youngest member of the national sepak takraw team, will also be feted along with Anthony Linn Navarro, Daniel Jay Tormis, Jacob Lagman, Arthur Craig Pantino, Cebu International Tennie Center, Inc., Noy Jopson, Rochelle Tan, Lorhiz Echavez-Lopez.

Baseball and softball patron Jesse Bernad, who helped form a Cebu little league team and helped bring in Major League Baseball legend Ken Griffey Jr., will also be cited for his contribution along with Canduman Elementary School's Jun Santillan , who helped start the football program of Canduman and the Mandaue Technical Institute./POOLED REPORT

PHILIPPINE CYCLING TEAM

PHILIPPINE U-23 TEAM

PHILIPPINE JUNIOR TEAM

PhilCycling under Pres. Bambol Tolentino

racing for flag and country to the

32nd ASIAN CYCLING CHAMPIONSHIPS

19th ASIAN JUNIOR CYCLING CHAMPIONSHIPS

February 8 to 18, 2012

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

(L-R) Coach Cesar Lobramonte (Junior), Jheffson Sotto (Junior), Ryan Bravo (Junior), Gerald Mendoza (U-23), George Oconer (U-23), Luis Miguel Maximo (Junior), Ronald Lomotos (Junior) & Coach Bert Oconer (U-23).  Not in photo is Rustom Lim (U-23) & Rudy Ruque (U-23)

(L-R) Jheffson Sotto, Ryan Bravo (Pangasinan), Gerald Mendoza (Manila), coach Ponga Lobramonte, coach Bert Oconer, Igi Maximo (Cebu), Ronald Lomotos (Zambales), George Oconer (Manila)

(L-R): Gerald Mendoza (21yo), Jheffson Sotto (17yo), Ryan Bravo (17yo), Luis Miguel Maximo (16yo), Ronald Lomotos (17yo), George Oconer (19yo).

SMART-PH CYCLISTS JOIN ASIAN TOURNAMENT

Published in Phil Daily Inquirer Newspaper on Feb. 4, 2012 Sat. issue

A SMART-Philippine squad brimming with youthful talent will vie for honors in the 32nd Asian Cycling Championships and 19th Asian Youth Championships from Feb. 8 to 18 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Rustom Lim, 19, who won a road race bronze medal in last year's Asian Youth bikefest in Bangkok, Thailand, will spearhead the Under-23 squad that also includes another promising 19-year-old, George Oconer, son of former Olympian and Tour veteran Norberto Oconer.

Both Lim and Oconer will be competing in the track events, and will be joined by Rudy Ruque and Gerald Mendoza in the road race.

The lone track bet in the junior division is 17-year-old Ryan Bravo, who will team up with Ronald Lomotos and Igi Maximo in the road competition.

The under-23 quartet of Lim, Oconer, Roque and Mendoza looms as the dark horse that may pull-off a surprise in the road contest, according to head coach Cesar Lobramonte.

"We want to bring youthful riders to Malaysia since we believe that they are our future cycling stars who will evetually make their mark in overseas competitions," said PhilCycling president and Tagaytay City Mayor Bambol Tolentino shortly after the national team paid a recent courtesy call on Smart Chief Wireless Advisor Orlando Vera.

We welcome the opportunity to support the national cycling team, especially these young riders whom we expect to give their all against Asia's best to bring honor and glory to our country," Vera, for his part, said.

CFA RED CARDS SPRINGDALE & COACH FOR 3 YEARS

The Freeman Newspaper.  “As an association dealing with grassroots program, they should be happy nga daghan ug tournaments. The kids and coach Mario became the collateral damage between the faction of our group and CFA.”... Read more

SPRINGDALE BANNED

Sun Star Cebu.  THE move to withdraw the five Paref Springdale teams in the 14th Aboitiz Cup has brought adverse effects to the team now that they are facing stiff sanctions from the Cebu Football Association (CFA).

The CFA has meted out a three-year ban to Paref Springdale and to head coach Mario Ceniza effective immediately from any CFA or Philippine Football Federation-sanctioned games... Read more

TUTOR, KIPTANUI WIN PHOENIX RUN

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Published in Sun Star Cebu Newspaper on Jan. 30, 2012 Monday issue
by Mike Limpag, Sports Editor

CHRISTY Tutor and Josphat Kiptanui topped the 10K division of the Phoenix Run yesterday at the Ayala Center Cebu.

Kiptanui, who also won the Unity Run 10K last week, crossed the finish line in 34:16, beating Bonifaco Monjas and Douglas Mwiti, who figured in a neck-and-neck battle for second place.

Monjas got second in 34:33.240, just over a second ahead of Mwiti (34:34.290).

In the women’s division, Tutor crossed the finish line in 43:02, 50 seconds ahead of
second placer Madelyn Carter. Marichu Luterte got third place in 45:29, while Nao Idio got fourth place in 56:06.

In the students division, Maria Carmela Quijano ran her way to the girls title in 58:40, one of only two students to finish the 10K in under one hour. Mary Rose Dakay got second place in 1:10:34.

In the male students division, footballer Aldrich Pelenio got second place in 1:01:48, while Jose Antonio Yu got third in 1:03:44. The first placer who finished the race in 56:37 was not identified in the results forwarded by race director Joel Baring and was only listed as No. 192.

In the 5K division, Abraham Missos added his second straight title with a 16:44 finish, beating Francis Kakui (17:12) and Jorry Ycong (17:20).

In the women’s 5K, Lovely Andrin beat sister Jhean for the title, finishing in 21:15, just eight seconds ahead of her sister. Lynle Cardenas got third in 23:26, 22 seconds ahead of Merlita Dunkin.

In the students division, Hans Earl Parel got first in 33:50, eight seconds faster than Clouie Arreglo. Charles Go got third in 37:49.

Victoria Vecson crusied to the female students 5K division in 35:33, beating Cahrele Badelas (40:33) by five minutes, while Melissa Tan got third in 41:33.

In the 3K division, Aldren Agang got first in 8:36, just three seconds ahead of Robert Daang. Crizel Dionson (10:46) beat Cherry Andrin (11:00) for the women’s title, while Cherie Lee Apiag (15:33) got third.

In the students division, Justin Genson won the 3K over Ralph So, while Aaliyah Mataragnon got the girls division title. Ana Patricia Maximo finished second, while Chezka Cabanal got third place.

Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on January 30, 2012.

SWIMMER PODIUMS IN A 3K RUN

THE PHOENIX RUN

January 29, 2012 5:30AM

The Terraces, Ayala Center, Cebu, Phl

3K RUN FEMALE

Ana Patricia "Icamax" Maximo, the 12 year-old swimmer of TEAM maX1mo, grabs the SILVER MEDAL in the 3K Run of The Phoenix Run

Its real!

A gift certificate from Coffee Bean.  Who wants to go with me?

And a 1-year supply from Virginia Foods :)

Of course with the no. 1 supporter and nutritionist... Mom!!!

A BRIDGE TOO FAR

Igimax crosses the bridge in Trans Central Highway

Stage 2 Road Race 36km, Tour ni Frank

Balamban to Busay Hills, Cebu City

organized by Frank Gatdula & Cebu Cycling

January 8, 2012

His YKKBike takes charge of the road's adverse conditions.

Ridley frame, Campagnolo groupset, Token wheels, FSA cranks, Vision bars, Lazer helmets, Fizik saddle, Carnac shoes, Santini apparel, Kenda tires

LUIS MIGUEL "IGIMAX" MAXIMO, 16yo

CHAMPION - Road Race, Juniors Division

OVERALL CHAMPION - General Classification, Juniors Division

2ND PLACE - Road Race, Open Category B

3RD PLACE - GENERAL CLASSIFICATION, Open Category B

HANG IN THERE

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LBC EXPRESS MISUPORTA NI MAXIMO

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Published in Super Balita Newspaper on Jan. 16, 2012 Monday issue
Jun Migallen, Sports Editor

Ang LBC Express, nang no. 1 courier company sa nasod, maoy uwahing kompaniya nga moitsa sa ilang suporta sa batan-ong Sugbuanong siklista nga si Luis Miguel "Igimax" Maximo sa YKKBikes sa dihang gihatagan kini og slot nga makaapil sa exclusive U-23 Elite Training Camp sa Enero 11 ngadto sa Pebrero 9, 2012 sa Subic Bay, Olongapo City, Zambales.

Ang camp gidesinyo alang sa mga elite cyclists sa U-23 o kadtong mga nagpangidaron og 19-22 anyos kinsa nasipatay nga adunay exceptional performance atol sa 16 ka adlaw nga 12 ka stage sa 2011 Ronda Pilipinas Tour.

LBC U-23 TRAINING CAMP

LBC U-23 TRAINING CAMP

ROAD TO FRANCE PROJECT

TEAM LBC CYCLING

January 11 to February 9, 2012

Subic Bay, Zambales, Philippines

Sporting Director Chris Allison (left) with the National U-23 elite cyclists who were selected to join the camp namely (from 2nd left) Melvin Mendoza, George Oconer, Jemico Brioso, Gerald Mendoza, Jaybop Pagnanawon, Elmer Navarro, Marvin Tapic, junior rider Luis Miguel Maximo and LBC owner Dino Araneta

GEORGE LUIS OCONER, 20yo

Philippine National U-23 Team

LUIS MIGUEL "IGI" MAXIMO, 16yo

Philippine National Junior Team

Cebu-YKKBikes

MARVIN "BORDZ" TAPIC, 20yo

Cebu Team, 2011 Ronda Pilipinas

ELMER "AZAI" NAVARRO

Cebu Team, 2011 Ronda Pilipinas

JAYBOP PAGNANAWON, 23yo

Cebu Team, 2011 Ronda Pilipinas

JOHN GERALD MENDOZA, 21yo

Philippine National U-23 Team

JEMICO BRIOSO, 22yo

Philippine National U-23 Team

  

KELVIN JOHN MENDOZA, 19yo

Ilocos Sur Team, 2011 Ronda Pilipnas

CEBUANO CYCLIST GETS SLOT TO U-23 ELITE TRAINING CAMP

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Published in The Freeman Newspaper on Jan. 15, 2012 Sunday issue
Manny Villaruel, Sports Editor

LBC Express, the country’s no. 1 courier company, is the latest corporate backer of young Cebuano student-cyclist Luis Miguel “Igimax”Maximo of YKKBikes when he was given a slot to attend the exclusive U-23 Elite Training Camp on January 11 to February  9, 2012 in Subic Bay, Olongapo City, Zambales.

The camp is designed for elite cyclists in U-23 whose age ranges from 19-22 years old who were spotted for exceptional performance during the 16-day, 12-stage 2011 Ronda Pilipinas Tour.

The special invitation extended to the young 16 year-old SAC awardee made him the youngest cycist to join the camp.  Though he did not compete in the Ronda Pilipinas due to age concerns and school commitment, his recent inclusion to the Phil National Cycling Team and his participation in junior and open amateur races around the country earned him the special invitation to join the elite camp.

The training camp will be conducted by renowned Christopher Allison, an American elite cyclist who has extensive experience in US and European international multi-stage tours and classic races.

LBC Express, through its sports arm LBC Sports Development Inc, headed by owner Dino Araneta, have decided to support Philippine Cycling by staging the 2011 Ronda Pilipinas and now focuses its attention and resources to the “Road To France” project – a dream to send the first Pinoy cyclists to join the Tour de France.

To achieve this, the Team LBC Cycling will be formed out of the training camp and will be based in Australia this year for further training and exposure in international multi-stage and classic races.

“I did not expect that I will be given a slot in this camp. I should not miss this opportunity because I know that the kind of training I will get will be more scientific and up to date with international standard,” shares the graduating high school student of Paref Springdale School.

“I am thankful for my school Paref Springdale headed by Mr Rick Ampiloquio who have allowed me to join the camp.  My head teachers Mr Jason Dante and Raymond Gone who have patiently supported my studies through on-line homeworks,” said the President of his school’s Student Council.

The young lad will be bring with him in the camp his YKK Road and Time Trial racing bikes equipped with Ridley, Campagnolo, Token, FSA, Vision, Lazer, Fizik, Carnac, Santini and Kenda components for testing and fine-tuning.

The youngest member of the Phil National Cycling Team will also use the training camp in preparation when he represents the country in the Asian Junior Cycling Championships this Feb 8-18 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

RACING WITH THE BIG BOYS

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Published in Sun Star Newspaper on Jan. 15, 2012 Sunday issue
by Iste Sesante Leopoldo, Staff Writer
Mike Limpag, Sports Editor

AFTER getting shortlisted for the junior team, 16-year-old Cebuano cyclist Luis Miguel Maximo joins the elite team of Under-23 cyclists’ training camp in Subic Bay.

The camp is designed for elite cyclists 19 to 22 years old. These cyclists were spotted for their exceptional performance during the 16-day, 12-stage 2011 Ronda Pilipinas Tour.

According to Maximo’s father, Jonathan, he is the youngest cyclist to join the camp.

Maximo did not join the Ronda Pilipinas because he is underaged but his inclusion in the national junor cycling team got him the invitation to join the training camp.

These cyclists, including Cebuano SEA Games gold medal winner John Mier, are some of the country’s best.

They will undergo training under Christopher Allison, an American elite cyclist who has extensive experience in the US and Europe international multi-stage tours and classic races.

LBC Express has ramped up its support for Philippine cycling, starting with the hosting of Ronda Pilipinas last year. This training will be used to harness the cyclists’ skills. The ones who will come out the best after the training will be sent to Australia to join various competitions there and in Asia for four months.

LBC is directing its resources to the “Road To France” project that aims to send the first Filipino cyclist to the Tour de France by 2020.

They plan to give the cyclists all the needed exposure and will try to get them licensed to compete in Europe by 2013.

“I did not expect that I will be given a slot in this camp. I should not miss this opportunity because I know that the kind of training I will get will be more scientific and up to date with international standards,” said Maximo, who will be graduating from high school this March.

Maximo will also use this training to prepare for the Asian Junior Cycling Championship next month in Malaysia.

Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on January 15, 2012.

CITY TO AWARD CYCLISTS

Published in Sun Star Newspaper on Jan. 12, 2012 Thursday issue
by Iste Sesante Leopoldo, Staff Writer
Mike Limpag, Sports Editor

TWO Cebuano Southeast Asian Games medalists are being pushed to be among the Outstanding Cebuano awardees in the field of sports in the Cebu City charter day celebration awards on Feb. 24.

This was disclosed by Cebu City Councilor Alvin Arcilla, who also passed a resolution awarding incentives to Cebuano athletes who excelled in their field of expertise.

The proposed awardees are John Yncierto Mier of Camputhaw and Niño Surban of Talamban.

“As of now, the Council has come up with a P10,000 cash incentive for a gold medal and P5,000 for a bronze medal. But we are still deliberating on increasing the amount,” Arcilla told Sun.Star Cebu in a phone interview.

The 19-year-old Mier, whose father is also a former national cycling team member, captured the gold medal in the men’s 30-kilometer race of the 2011 SEA Games in Jakarta last November. He also secured a bronze medal in the individual and team pursuits.

While 25-year-old Surban, who had to overcome a few odds just to join the SEA Games, settled for a bronze medal in the Olympic Cross-Country.

“They deserve to be recognized for what they have achieved as they have made the country and even the city proud,” Arcilla said.

He added that the decision will be finalized during their session and he has requested Mier and Surban to appear.

Before the charter day awarding, Mier will also get a chance to win more honors for Cebu as he is set to compete in the Asian Junior Cycling Championships on Feb. 8-18 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

He will be joined by junior cyclist Luis Miguel “Igi” Maximo, while Surban is also scheduled to defend his dominance in the International Mountainbike Challenge in Brunei in March.

Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on January 12, 2012.

IGIMAX STAMPS CLASS ANEW

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Published in The Freeman Newspaper on Jan. 10, 2012 Tuesday issue

CEBU, Philippines - Bemedalled Cebuano junior cyclist Luis Miguel "Igimax" Maximo of YKKBikes made sure Cebu Cycling's pride is intact by grabbing a gold medal in the juniors (18-under) category of the 10th Tour Ni Frank over the weekend.

Igimax almost scored a twinkill after placing second behind Ramon Espinosa in the open B class. The other top winner of the two-day tilt was Raymond Naquinis in class C.

Aside from the usual open B and C divisions, the organizers added a junior category for the first time to support the growing interest of the sport among the youth.

Promising Cebuano cyclist Luis Miguel "Igimax" Maximo on his way to a solo finish in the Juniors (18-under) category of the 10th Tour ni Frank over the weekend.  Maximo also placed second in the Open B category behind Ramon Espinosa

"It was Igi's local knowledge of the race route in Trans Central Highway that spelled the difference. It was a tactical race. I was following them, and I can see that he was letting his opponents go first at a fast pace, then attacked in a crucial part of the route - a killer climb. He was never caught after that and soloed to victory," noted race organizer Fil-Am Frank Gatdula.

The victory was doubly sweet for the 16-year-old member of the Philippine Team as he was able to outrace Miguel Gonzales of Manila, the overall junior champion of the 2011 Pilipinas Cycling League (PCL). The third place went to Dexel Chu.

The four-leg PCL series brings the cyclists to Subic Bay (Olongapo City), Clark Field (Angeles City), Matabungkay (Batangas) and Manila. Due to budgetary constraints coupled with school commitments, the student-athlete from Cebu was only able to join two legs and thus failed to contend for the overall plum.

"I'm proud of this win because I did it in front of the hometown crowd," said the SAC awardee. "My mentors in Cebu Cycling advised me to take it easy in the first kilometers, wait for the group to pass in that Killer Climb, then make the attack. I was able to escape, rode alone until I saw the finish line with the crowd - mostly my friends, cheering for me!," said the president of PAREF-Springdale Student Council.

The local Trans-Central Highway (TCH) climbing race route is getting to be famous nationwide, with some saying it is even more difficult than the Baguio pass. The roads are so steep it can punish unprepared riders - a number of them have to dismount on their bikes and walk through the killer climb or worst, do a DNF (Did Not Finish).

The 36km course started in Gaisano Balamban, traverses the Trans Central Highway and finishes at Buak, Busay Hills, Cebu City.

"My preparation during the holidays paid off. I missed the christmas and new year parties. I want to make bawi na sad," said the graduating high school student of Paref Springdale who will fly to Manila next week to start his training with the Phl squad.

"Im looking forward to defend the junior title. With the support of Cebu sports community, we can make it more exciting next year," said Igimax. The out-of-town participants will probably stay a couple more days to study the route prior to the race next year. This will be good for Cebu tourism.

Igimax's recent feat was made possible by the support of YKK Trading, Ridley frame, Campagnolo groupset, Token wheels, FSA crankset, Vision bars, Lazer helmets, Fizik saddle, Carnac shoes, Santini apparel, and Kenda & Challenge tires.

MAXIMO NAKA-GOLD SA TOUR NI FRANK

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Published in Super Balita Newspaper on Jan. 10, 2012 Tuesday issue
by Erwin S. Lirazan, Staff Writer
Jun Migallen, Sports Editor

NAPRESERBA sa 16 anyos nga si Luis Miguel “Igimax” Maximo sa YKKBikes ang dungog sa Cebu cycling dihang nakalangkat siya’g gold medal sa 1st Tour Ni Frank Junior Cycling race ning bag-uhay.

Kini maoy labing unang higayon nga gilakip ang Junior Category sa lumba nga nanukad sa lungsod sa Balamban unya misubay sa Trans Central Highway ug nahuman sa bukirang barangay sa Busay, Cebu City.

Gawas sa Junior, ang ubang mga kategoriya nga gikombatihan sa lumba mao ang Open B ug Open C.

“It was Igi’s local knowledge of the race route in Trans Central Highway that spelled the difference. It was a tactical race,” batbat ni Fil-Am organizer Frank Gatdula.

“I was following them, and I can see that he was letting his opponents go first at a fast pace, then attacked in a crucial part of the route - a killer climb. He was never caught after that and soloed to victory.”

Lakip sa gilupig ni Maximo mao si Miguel Gonzales sa Manila, kinsa maoy overall junior champion sa 2011 Pilipinas Cycling League (PCL).

Si Gonzales igo lang miangkon sa ikaduhang dapit unya ikatulo si Dexel Chu.

Nagkanayon si Maximo nga mapasigarbuon gyud siya nga nakuha niya ang bulawang medalya hilabi na kay dinhi sa Sugbo gipahigayon ang lumba.

Gipasabot ni Maximo, Paref Springdale School Student Council president, nga grabe gyud ang iyang preparasyon alang ning lumbaa ug malipayon siyang wala nausik ang iyang paningkamot. Sa sunod semana, molarga na paingon sa Manila si Maximo aron moapil sa ensayo sa Philippine National Junior team diin bag-uhay lang siyang nahisakop.

Gipatik sa mantalaang SuperBalita Cebu Enero 10, 2012.