Hernandez shines in Bicol meet

MANILA, Philippines - Palarong Pambansa standout Peter Hernandez and Isis Arnaldo shared the limelight as they bagged two gold medals each in the morning session of the Philippine Swimming League (PSL) 64th Leg Series dubbed Jaime Jimenez-El Presidente Swimming Championship  yesterday at the Mariners Polytechnic University Foundation swimming pool in Rawiz, Legazpi City.

Hernandez proved too much for his rivals as he topped the boys’ 14 years 200-meter individual medley and 50m backstroke while St. Agnes Academy tanker Arnaldo pocketed the girls’ nine years 50m butterfly and 50m backstroke crowns.

“My purpose in creating and founding the PSL is to democratize swimming. Make it a sports for all. During the opening ceremony, I told them that all the Bicolanos must work together, must help one another to develop good swimmers,” said Papa during the simple opening rites.

“They must not be afraid in joining PSL competitions as we will let you cross the bridge easier. Let the PSL competition make you a better swimmer and a better person. We will expose you in international competitions. There are better international competitions to come year by year,” added Papa.

The other gold medal winners were Jordan Lobos, Zyrilyn Anonuevo, Trisha Oliveros, Ythnmthw Orellana, Richard Aquitana, Gian de la Torre, Julius Vazquez, Aidepp de Luna, Alan Tence and Margaret Dee Nicole Hernandez.

Also topping their respective events were Francis  Rubio, Mervier Mirandilla, Daniel Rubio, Romeo Teodoro, Namahig Asa Mahiwo, Arjay Llanes, Jifrey Azur, Christine de Luna, Hannah Sartorio, Nikka Prima, Cleo Prima Abegail Austria, Alexandra Maronilla, Arlyn Arcadio, Von Fedoc, John Rala, Krista Gojar, Brent Marfega, Emmanuel Adornado, Lowenstein Lazaro, Philip Princillo and Sebastian Castro.

The event serves as a qualifying meet to select swimmers who will represent the country in the prestigious World University Games in Gwangju, South Korea next year as well as in various international competitions abroad including the 2014 Royal Bangkok Swim Meet in November.

After the Bicol Leg, the PSL stages its 65th Leg Series with the PSL-Magnolia Motivational Meet for Class A and B, Class C and Novice on Aug. 30-31 at the Diliman Preparatory School in Quezon City.

The PSL is accredited by the Federation of School Sports of the Philippines, an affiliate to International University Sports Federation.