CEBU, Philippines - Cebuana long distance running star Mary Joy Tabal and fellow decorated marathoner Eduardo Buenavista hope to make the country proud when they take part in the 2014 Paris Marathon today. They arrived in the glitzy French capital last Thursday together with coach Rio de la Cruz.
Tabal said she's very excited but at the same time worried in her first race on European soil.
"I'm excited because it's a new challenge for me racing against world-class athletes and marathoners," said Tabal. "But I'm worried a bit because I have to make some adjustments especially the cold weather in here," added the Philippine marathon record-holder in the women's division.
The 24-year-old Tabal said during their jogging session, they have not been sweating out even an hour after.
She had competed abroad several times already, but this is the first time she's running under a cold weather condition.
"They even said it might rain during the race itself," Tabal said. "But I'm confident because being here makes me a winner already. It's a rare opportunity, so I will have to make the most out of it. I will not waste this chance and make the country proud," said Tabal. (FREEMAN)