Sportsman in action Alan Gotauco Choachuy 'Leading by example'

CEBU, Philippines - He's not the type who limits himself into one sport. As a dedicated sportsman, he has organized various events from cycling to badminton up to skateboarding and basketball. So well-rounded an athlete that he's also into running, billiards, triathlon and autocross racing. That is the fine line that separates Alan G. Choachuy from the rest.

"For me, it's good to be involved in various events. Just like in trying to get fit and healthy, you need to cross-train," said Choachuy, who was honored four years ago by the Sportswriters Association of Cebu (SAC) for his valuable contribution to the development of Cebu sports.

What is more admirable about Choachuy is that he leads by example. In every sporting endeavor he undertakes, he's always an active participant both as promoter and athlete.

It is for this reason that he took the courage in joining the Pinoy edition of the "Biggest Loser" last year. 

Making such bold move was not easy for Choachuy as it entails a lot of sacrifice. Being away from his family and loved ones for several months was like mental torture for him not to mention that he has to momentarily put on hold his high-paying job as an architect.

What gives him strength though is the thought that what he is doing is for the betterment of his physical well-being and for the happiness of those who care for him.

"I joined that reality television show simply because I wanted to change my life. I want to live longer and grow old with my family," he said. "As it turned out, it also taught me the importance of family values."

All his efforts and hardships paid off. Since that life-changing episode for Choachuy, he has become a catalyst of change and an inspiration to others.

He was once called "Big Al" for his towering six-foot frame of over 200 pounds. That is now a thing of the past as he has considerably shrunk into a solid, well-sculpted figure worthy enough to be a bodybuilding contestant.

Not only that, he has also turned into a fitness ambassador for espousing to others that nurturing a healthy lifestyle is of paramount importance.

"My outlook in life has certainly changed especially now that I already discern that importance of a healthy living," he said. "That is something I want to share to the Cebuanos and to all Filipinos because some of us are so engrossed with our work that we forget to take care of our health."

As for his himself, Choachuy has already completed a full triathlon. He has also been joining 21-kilometer runs, the most latest was the 2nd SM 2 SM Run last February 12 where he broke his personal best time by an amazing 22 minutes.

"Never in my life did I imagine that I could finish or accomplish these things," he humbly said.

Aside from the Xterra Off-Road Triathlon on March 18 in Liloan, Choachuy is gearing up for what he considers as his biggest challenge, thus far,- the 70.3 Ironman on August 5 at the Shangri-la Hotel in Mactan Island. The grueling race covers 1,900-meter swim, 90km bike and 21km run.

Tough it may be, Choachuy is upbeat on braving the challenge. That is because of the guiding principle that is well-entrenched in his psyche.

"Always give your best in everything you do. You should be passionate on the sport you love," said Choachuy. "More importantly, don’t stop believing in yourself. Like they said, it's all in the mind." —EBV (FREEMAN)