35th Milo Marathon National Finals: Cebu's de los Santos wins women's title

CEBU, Philippines - The decision of Cebu's road running queen Mary Grace de los Santos to train in Manila finally bore good fruit after she bagged the women's division championship of the 35th Milo Marathon National Finals yesterday at the SM Mall of Asia grounds in Pasay City.

In her last few races here in Cebu, De los Santos was often outsmarted by the fast-rising Mary Joy Tabal until the former decided to go to Manila and train under the national team.

All her hardwork and sacrifices paid off as De los Santos snared the coveted women's crown in two hours, 53 minutes and 11 seconds.

Jho-an Banayag, who edged out De los Santos during ther Manila leg, placed second in 2:55.11, while Tabal came out third in 3:01.44.

Tabal was doubly happy as she outclassed last year’s champion Flordeliza Doños, who ended up fourth this time in 3:06.07 followed by Rhodah Chekirui (3:17.23).

Rounding up the top 10 finishers were Jennylyn Nobleza (3:24.17), Susan Jemutai (3:25.38), Geraldine Sealza (3:27.23), Judelyn Miranda (3:31.20) and Juanne Manganat (3:34.43).

No Cebuano made it to the top 10 in the men’s division dominated once again by the Kenyans.

James Tallam crossed the finish line first in 2:28.07 followed by Will Rotich (2:28.32) and Abraham Missos (2:29.32).

Completing the top 10 cast in the men’s 42K battle were David Kipsang (2:31.09), Irinio Raquin (2:34.54), Benjamin Kipkazi (2:38.46), Douglas Mwiti (2:39.51), Eliud Kering(2:40.35) and Josphat Kiptanui with 2:43.07 clocking.

The top finishers in the 21K were Alex Melly (1:11.42) and Nhea Ann Barcena (1:35.42). - THE FREEMAN