Ycong shines in 1st IronMan 70.3 Davao

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Jorry Ycong of the Omega Tri Team emerged as the first Asian Elite champion in the inaugural Alveo Ironman 70.3 at the Azuela Cove, here.

It was Paul Jumamil who was leading all the time before Ycong caught up and snared the title.

“All I did was paced in the early part of the race. I poured everything in the final 10-kilometers that is why I caught up,” said the 28-year-old Ycong. “I am so happy because this is my best finish so far in my fifth Ironman race.”

Former Filipino elite champ August Benedicto settled for second with 4:25:02 clocking, while Ycong’s teammate Banjo Norte settled for third with a time of 4:25:07.

Jumamil (4:36:24) and Benjamin Rana (4:40:42) occupied the fourth and fifth spot, while running coach John Philip Duenas (5:13:11) placed sixth.

Meanwhile, Mexican Mauricio Mendez and Radka Kahlefeldt of the Czech emerged as the biggest winner as they dominated the pro division.

Another Omega Tri bet Marla Hodges claimed gold via the 30-34 class with her time of 5:06:08. Vic Montebon took the top honor in the 18-24 class with a time of 4:42:00 followed by  Chobie Duenas.

Cebu athletes who made it to top 5 in their respective divisions include Cianyl Gonzalez in the 25-29 class, Elona Villacin in the 35-39 and Amale Jopson in the 45-49 division.

Tribu Lapu-Lapu composed of Keith Laura Baladya, Lovely Andrin and Ica Maximo placed second in the women’s relay, while the trio of Quintin Sabalandre, Glad Constantine Romaguera and Febreona Jud Limosnero claimed the silver in the men’s action. (FREEMAN)