Arche wins first triathlon race of year

CEBU, Philippines - Ralph Arche dominated the first triathlon competition of the year in Cebu via the Alvin Abarquez (A.A) Triathlon Race dubbed as "Still Tri-ing at 40" at the Ocean Pearl Resort in Mactan Island the other day.

Arche clinched the men’s open crown after outsmarting another former top swimmer Franz Baguio. Tyrone Tan landed at a decent third place.

In the women's division, former trackster-turned-triathlete Janice Bautista edged out Mia Morre for the top spot.

A total of 30 triathletes joined the event which covered 750-meter swim, 30-kilometer bike and 5K run.

Juperson de los Santos failed to barge into the top three, but still went home happy for winning an Antonio Banderas perfume during the fun contest done during the awarding ceremonies. 

The race was Sugbu Triathlon’s first offering of the year and was especially dedicated to Alvin Abarquez, who, at 40 years old, is still active in triathlon.

The event was made possible through the support of Olive Abarquez and family, Sugbutri, Ceronne Dayo of New Jersey and Virgil Capala. – Caecent No-ot Magsumbol (THE FREEMAN)