Mataragnon, Jumamil rule

CEBU, Philippines – Cebu's homegrown talent Aaliyah Ricci Mataragnon and Bohol's pride Paul Jumamil representing Rider Omega Pro stole the spotlight in yesterday's 2nd Cebu City Triathlon at the Cebu City Sports Center.

The 15-year-old Mataragnon of Jumbo Plastic Lenoleum grabbed the women's elite crown after finishing the sprint race with the fastest time of one hour, 18 minutes and nine seconds.

The Sacred Heart School Hijas de Jesus student was way ahead of her closest pursuer Jacqui Lamparero of Iloilo, who clocked in 1:19:55 as Cianyl Gonzalez of Rider Omega Pro finished third with the time of 1:23:32. Issa Priagura landed fourth in 1:26:45.

In the men's side, the Tagbilaran City-native Jumamil stood the tallest among the podium finishers with a 1:04:43 clocking.

Kim Remolino settled for second, a vast improvement from his eighth-place finish last year, with a time of 1:05:39, while Jorry Ycong came out third in 1:05:47. Emmanuel Commendador and Ralph Eduard completed the top five with a 1:06:09 and 1:08:37 clockings, respectively.

Aside from Jumamil and Gonzalez, several other Suzuki-Rider Omega Pro bets also reigned supreme in the age-group battle, with Welmar Saavedra and En Torres topping the 25-29 category. Chris Capistrano and Franz Baguio posted a 1-2 finish in the 30-34 division, while Jeffrey Codino ruled the men's 35-39 class.

The other age-group winners were Chobie Duenas and Karen Manayon (15-19), Alex Donrey Noval (20-24), Zuzette Jarina-Co of Metafit Tri Team (women's 35-39), Rumolo Rosell and May Ann Mares (40-44), and Brian Lim and Lalaine Sacris (50-above).

The team of Aileen Guardo, Ariel Genobiagon and Ryan Galo ruled the relay event to complete the winners' list. (FREEMAN)