Sorongon, Kenyans claim top honors in Gaisano footrace

CEBU, Philippines – As in the past races she has joined, Ruffa Sorongon had a walk-in-the park victory as Kenyan Abraham Kilimo ruled his division in the 22nd Gaisano Country Mall Anniversary Run yesterday.

Sorongon, who won the premier women’s division of this year’s Milo Marathon Cebu leg, completed the 21K women’s action in one hour, 29 minutes and 40 seconds. Meirez Ramirez was a far second in 1:44.56, while Sandra Sollano placed third in 1:47.50.

It was an all-Kenyan affair in the men’s side with Kilimo winning the 21K title with 1:12.19, followed by Stanley Stanley Teimet in 1:12.23 as Joseph Mwipuri landed in third with 1:13.39.

Milo Marathon Cebu leg winner Noel Tillor was only fourth with a time of 1:14.38.

In the 15K action, Prince Joey Lee survived a tough challenge against Arnel Florentino to grab the top spot with the time of 52:07. Florentino came second in 53:20, while Adonis Singson ended up third in 53:26.

Melody Perez snatched the women’s crown in 1:06.35, followed by Lovely Andrin with 1:06.53 as Keisha Mae Delechos settled for third in 1:09.25.

Lovely’s sister Cherry Andrin ruled the 10K open with 42:25 clocking. Trailing behind Andrin were Geneda Arcuino (42:36) and Lyra Valles (56:37).

Michael Largo lorded it over the men’s class with 35:07, followed by Azlan Pagay (36:59) and Ray Omnos (37:07).

In the 5K class, Ruel Alfuguera (17:02) and Geniecel Saballa (21:45) emerged as the fastest in their respective divisions.  (FREEMAN)