Calinawan rules Sogod triathlon

CEBU, Philippines - Gerrie Calinawan pulled a major surprise when he came back strong to reign supreme in the 1st Mayor Moonyeen Durano Triathlon Cup at the Alegre Beach Resort in Sogod.

The former RP member and NAGT top triathlete Calinawan who's been missing in action in some local events for sometime finished the 1.5-kilometer swim, 40-km bike, and 10-km run in two hours, 12 minutes and 12 seconds to come out the best among 76 other entries.

More to it though, Calinawan was happy to beat a much more experienced Noy Jopson, who clocked 2:15.15 as Eugene Sanchez wound up third with 2:27.35.

In the distaff side, Lorhiz Echavez lorded it over with a time of 2:38.46. A far second was Rochelle Tan, who timed 3:07.42 and little-known Rachelle Limtong settled for third with a 3:09.21 clocking.

On the other hand, Gianni Gavin ruled the men's 19-under with 2:31.56 as Ralph Arche came out no.1 in the men's 20-29 class.

Elmo Clarrabal, got the men's 30-39 title as Tyrone Tan continues to sizzle in the men's 40 above class.

The team of Trifon Tan and Chris Burdette and Nick Clamosa under Team Lexmark reigned supreme in the relay event with 2:41.19 while Team Taghap of Abet Antigua and Michael Sencio was second with 3:03.20 and Tri One of Ida Maghanoy and Rosalito Albina ended third with a 3:33.58 clocking.

Mayor Moonyeen Durano herself also tried out the sport by joining the relay action along with marine biologist Geraldine Sala of host Alegre Beach Resort's aquasports department.

"I used to run a lot and as much as my schedule allows I try to stay fit in a gym for healthy living is what I want to advocate not just to my people in Sogod but to everyone and what better way to start emphasize such but through a triathlon with a partner such as Alegre Beach Resort, who also advocate preservation and that includes one's lifestyle" said the active Mayor.

And while it's Mayor Moonyeen's first "tri", Alegre Beach Resort has been hosting several triathlon events already in the past, yet they continue to support this three-in-one sporting event. (FREEMAN)