Tabal rules Sinulog footrace anew

CEBU, Philippines – For the fifth consecutive year, Cebuana long distance running star Mary Joy Tabal kept her throne in the 5K women's open race of the Sinulog Fun Run yesterday starting and ending at the Cebu City Sports Center.

Tabal, the country's reigning marathon queen, crossed the finish line with the best time of 18 minutes and 21.58 seconds.

Despite failing to break her personal best time of 17:55 she established last year, Tabal was still way ahead of Ruffa Sorongon, who wound up second in 19:11.58.

Mary Joy Loberanis finished third with the time of 19:49.09, while sisters Cherry and Lovely Fe Andrin occupied the next two spots with 20:20.80 and 21:10.11 clockings, respectively.

The sixth to 10th placers were Kisha Mae Delechos (21:31.81), Geniecel Saballa (22:29.30), Saralee Cuizon (22:39.63), Michelle Ann Beboso (23:33.60) and Mary Joy Castor (23:47.01).

In the men's side, the vaunted Kenyans swept the top three spots led by Eric Kibiott Chepsiror with the time of 15:25.08 clocking followed by Abrahan Kilimo (15:26.02) and Joseph Mururi (15:49.01).

Cebuano Prince Joey Lee could only go as far as fourth place this time in 16:07.28 as Michael Largo landed at fifth in 16:39.90.

Rounding up the top 10 cast were Arnel Florentino (16:50.30), Bonifacio Monjas (16:59.80), Rafael Pescos (17:05.01), Chobie Duenas and Francis Kakui (17:13.80).

Meanwhile, Melina "Twinkle" Ignacio once again spiced up the Sinulog Foundation-organized event, this time as 'madame butterly' that earned her the 'best in costume' accolade under individual female category. Justine Bayking got the award in the men's side.

Spectrum led by Dr. Gerry Mayo and Anita Balaga was feted as  the biggest running club and the best in costume as well in group category. (FREEMAN)