Top 100 Cebuano: Roy Vence

CEBU, Philippines —  This long distance running star was born in Bogo City north of Cebu on February 22, 1966 but migrated to Marikina, Metro Manila during his teens. 

In 1990, Cebu’s “Marathon Man” Raffy Uytiepo noticed the potential of Roy Vence and invited him to join the legendary Nike Running Club, winner of 12 consecutive team titles of the PAL Manila International Marathon. In no time, Vence improved and led the Nike Team to more victories. 

Vence became the Milo Marathon national champion in 1993 which was followed by five more crowns, winning in 1994, 1996, 1998, 1999 and 2004, becoming the first ever Pinoy marathoner to achieve the feat.

Vence’s brightest moment came when he won gold medal in men’s marathon event of the 2001 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.  He also produced two silver and one bronze medals for Phl in the SEA Games.

His best time of 2:20:11 though was recorded in the Hong Kong Airport International Marathon. 

Then in 1996, Vence represented the country in the Atlanta Olympics, clocking 2:37:10 to place 100th.  He also ran the Boston Marathon.

After slowing down due to age, Vence was appointed head coach of the Philippine marathon team which trained in Baguio City. He has several champion runners under his care.