CEBU, Philippines - Kenyan Douglas Mwiti took advantage of his familiarity with the race course to successfully defend his men's crown in the Historic Resort City Marathon in Lapu-Lapu City yesterday, but the biggest shocker came from the little-known Lizane Abella who dethroned Preciosa Sanchez in the women's battle
Mwiti completed the 42.195-kilometer action with the best time of two hours, 51 minutes and 9.080 seconds. He edged out his compatriot Albert Omboga, while Paksit's Paul James Zafico (2:58:33), YYK Redit's Eric Chepsiror Kibiwote (3:15:37) and Dodong Vosotros of Ormoc (3:15:37) rounded up the top five finishers.
In the distaff side, Abella of Ked Runner's Club stunned Sanchez after clokcing in 3:52:04.020. Sanchez crossed the finish line in 3:55:09.26, still good for second place as Sandra Sollano came out third in 3:55:10. The next two spots were occupied by Tessie Escasinas (4:46:23.42) and Rosalinda Cosino 4:47:22).
Ruffa Sorongon, for her part, defended her 21K title with the time of 1:45:59.640, while Azlan Pagay is the new half-marathon titlist in the men's category with the time of 1:20:11.
Infinitea's Robert Daang topped the men's 10K race in 35:04.82, while the distaff side saw Saralee Cuizon coming out th fastest in 47:50.240.
The top finishers in the 5K division were Michael Largo (16:51) and Irish Delechos (23:16). — (FREEMAN)