Tabal to seek old spot in nat’l team

MANILA, Philippines – Marathoner Mary Joy Tabal agreed to comply with the requirements of the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (Patafa) and submit herself to the process of re-applying for a national team slot to realize her Olympic dream.

Tabal met the qualifying standard in the Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon in Canada but she could only officially enter the Rio Games unless she’s reinstated to the Patafa squad.

“I acknowledge the need to be a part of the national team in order to represent our country. This is why I’m sending my letter (requesting for reinstatement) and other documents to Patafa for their approval,” Tabal said in a press conference Monday night in Cebu City.

The 26-year-old Tabal planned to file her request for reinstatement with the Patafa, along with supporting documents, by last night at the earliest.

Tabal resigned from the national team last year, apparently in disagreement with Patafa’s policies on number of events she could run in.

With the help of her sponsor, Motor Ace Philippines, she continued to train under coach Philip Dueñas and took part in various marathons, including the IAAF Gold Label Ottawa Marathon. She clocked 2:43:30 in Canada to make the 2:45 grade.

Motor Ace execs had made initial talks with Patafa president Philip Ella Juico prior to Tabal’s arrival Sunday night.

Tabal brought with her a certification signed by John Halvarsen, president and race director of the Run Ottawa. It contained a link to the official results as posted on the IAAF website.

“At the end of the day, it is really up to Patafa. Joy has to abide by the rules they set out for us if she wants to be part of the national team,” said Motor Ace Philippines’ finance director Chipi Borromeo.

Jonel Borromeo, Motor Ace president, expressed confidence Patafa will eventually greenlight Tabal’s Rio campaign.

“Once Tabal gets reinstated and with the permission of Patafa, we will prepare for Joy to return to Japan for further training for Rio,” he said.