Arabejo wins Manila’s first gold in HK tiff

HONG KONG–Ryan Paolo Arabejo of Team MayniLA-Philippines splashed his way to victory Friday evening to jumpstart the big city bets’ campaign in the 2004 Hong Kong Swimming Championships at the Shing Mun Valley Swimming Center.

Arabejo’s win in the 1500 meter freestyle underscored the Manila tankers’ expected strong showing in this tough three-day tournament featuring the best youth swimmers here and South China.

Members of Team MayniLA, mostly aged 12-14, were grouped against the best 16-under swimmers in the event sanctioned by the International Swimming Federation (FINA).

"Considering the tough opposition, Ryan (Arabejo) really showed heart and what the Filipino youth is made of," said Arnold "Ali" Atienza, chairman of the Manila Sports Council and the delegation head.

"Maganda talaga ang pinakita ng bata kasi malaki at malakas ang mga kalaban. Eh malaki pa nga kay Ali (Atienza is a 6-footer) yung natalo ni Ryan, " said coach Bert Lozada.