Country’s marathon queen Tabal eyes slot to Rio

CEBU, Philippines - Cebuana Mary Joy Tabal looks forward to fulfilling her ultimate dream this year and that is to qualify in the 2016 Olympics on August in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

"My ultimate goal for 2016 is to qualify for Olympics. That's my motivation to really work even harder,” said Tabal.

Tabal had a good chance of setting a record in the Milo Marathon and at the same time get the qualifying time for the Olympics, but had to slow down due to heavy rains during the national finals held for the first time in Angeles City.

Tabal needed at least two hours and 45 minutes to qualify for the Olympics. Tabal’s personal best is 2:48:00 clocking.

Even as she failed to meet the qualifying time, Tabal was still able to defend her Milo Marathon national crown and established herself as the third Filipina to have a rare grand slam.

Tabal is still hoping to make it to the Olympics this year, perhaps through the Boston Marathon set April 18.

Tabal got a ticket back to  US  as part of her incentive for topping the 39th Milo Marathon along with Rafael Poliquit.

"I learned to be humble in and accept any changes that I encountered being an athlete. I also learned to be more patient and consistent in working hard for my training in achieving my goals," added Tabal.  (FREEMAN)