Cebu-based Norte retains Asian elite crown

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu-based Banjo Norte of the Omega Tri Team successfully retained his Asian elite title in the Regent Aguila Ironman 70.3 Asia Pacific Championship at the Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City yesterday.

The Cagayan De Oro-native trailed his teammate Jory Ycong and Paul Jumamil in the 1.9km swim leg but made a strong push in the lung-busting 90km bike course passing through three loops and finished with a good run along the 21km route to complete a resounding back-to-back championships.

Norte’s triumph was made extra special as he registered a personal best of four hours, 24 minutes and 34 seconds. Raymund Torio placed second with a time of 4:30:42, while Leonard Rondina settled for third with an 4:31:04 clocking.

On the other hand, Alexandra Ganzon, who was unopposed in the women’s class, finished in 5:04:52.

Paul Jake Castillo topped the CEO division, while Tyrone Tan and Gregie Pamakid claimed the second and third place honors, respectively.

Rue Reinhardt Panibon ruled the women’s 18-24 class in 5:38:04 while Tiffany Quijada and Giorgia Guidicelli had a 2-3 finish in the female 25-29 category. Cebuano Karl Greyson Lee landed second in the men’s 18-24 class.

In relay event, Team Spectrum swept the all-men and mixed relay titles, while Sante Barley-Cebu won the all-female battle.

The trio of Donkey Sanchez, Albert Godinez and Prince Joey Lee delivered Team Spectrum the all-men plum, while Tribu Lapu-Lapu and Sante Barley-Cebu placed second and third, respectively.

The Spectrum trio of Karen Indaya, Marvin Tapic (bike) and runner Agustin Ychon ruled the mixed class over Sante Barley and Team Repro Optima. (FREEMAN)