Loberanis shines in Run for Rivers

CEBU, Philippines - Mary Joy Loberanis came out as the biggest winner in the 4th edition of  the Cebu Run for Rivers yesterday at the SM Seaside City grounds.

The 13-year-old Loberanis posted his personal best of 18 minutes and 52 seconds to rule the 5K girls division.

It was a sweet victory for Loberanis as she dedicated the win to her grandfather and Cebuano cycling legend Renato Mier, who just passed away.

Loberanis said that she had no plans of joining the event, but two days after the death of her grandfather, she decided to compete as her tribute.

"He was my number one fan. I thought the race would be a fitting tribute for him that is why I decided to join," said the young Loberanis.

Loberanis’ father and coach Arvin admitted that she didn’t expect a strong performance from his daughter as she just went back to running after suffering from a knee injury last year.

After winning the 5K action in the Run for Rivers, Loberanis will then compete in the 6K class of the sixth Hunat Sugbu-Dagan Para Ni Maning this morning at the Ayala Center-Cebu's The Terraces.   (FREEMAN)