Ruiz crowned 'Queen of the Mountain' in TNF

CEBU, Philippines - The ever daring Lucille Ruiz flashed girl power to grab the women’s open crown during stage 1 of the 15th Tour Ni Frank starting at the JY Square Mall to Tops in Busay, Cebu City.

The absence of defending champion Ica Maximo  made Ruiz more inspired to dominate the climb stage and be named not only the Queen of the Mountain, but the overall champion of her class.

In line with the women’s month celebration, a bunch of strong-willed women join the male-dominated event with Ruiz overtaking a good number of male riders along the way.

Gina Ching came out second followed by Louie Villacin. Kim Kate and Pamela Ruiz wound up fourth and fifth, respectively.

In the men’s side, Alvin dela Torre, Dadong Carcueva, and Boy Pagnanawon ruled in their respective classes.

Dela Torre, a bike mechanic at Autofocus, edged Dongkey Sanchez for the top spot of the 39-under class, while Manuel Pedrosa landed third.

Carcueva dominated the 40-above division, while the indefatigable Rolando “Boy” Pagnanawon was the fastest in the 50-above division.

Stage 2 or the criterium race was still being contested as of this writing yesterday at Lantaw SRP, while Stage 3, a 120-kilometer road race from Danao City to Bogo ang back, wll take place today. (FREEMAN)