CEBU, Philippines - Mendel Lopez finally overpowered Cebu-based Kenyan runner Simon Losiaboi in terms of speed, power and endurance not just once but in back-to-back running events over the weekend in different venues.
Last Saturday at Mt. Manunggal in the southern town of Balamban, Lopez edged out Losiaboi, the most dominant force in local running circuit since he set foot on Cebu soil nearly a year ago.
Losiaboi settled for second place honors followed by Jobert Carolino.
In the women's category, Mary Grace de los Santos reasserted her supremacy, while Aiza Suwaybaguio and Engr. Lhoriz Echavez occupied the second and third sports, respectively.
Yesterday, Lopez reaffirmed his dominance over Losiaboi by topping the "Run To The Clouds" from the Outpost in Nivel Hills, Brgy. Lahug to Zipline in Brgy. Busay, this city.
After dealing with a steep, eight-kilometer route, Lopez crossed the finish line first followed by Losiaboi and Carolino.
Lopez has actually defeated Losiaboi once, but on grounds of technicalities as the Kenyan was disqualified for using a different race number.
Once again, De los Santos ruled the distaff side followed by Madelyn Carter and Joy Tabal.
Echavez did not join the action as she was part of the organizing Sugbu Triathlon. – Caecent No-ot Magsumbol (THE FREEMAN)