CEBU, Philippines – Cebuana long distance running star Mary Joy Tabal will hit the road today for this year’s edition of the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon.
After a second place finish in the women's 21K half marathon in Hongkong last year, Tabal returns with a bigger mission, not only for herself but to her fellow Cebuanos.
Tabal’s main mission is to break the 21K Philippine record established by Mercedita Manipol which is one hour, 18minutes and 45 seconds. Tabal's personal best in the half marathon in 1:19:32 which she established last year in the Great Eastern Women’s run in Singapore.
Tabal who did not participate in the 2016 Cebu Marathon, is joining the Hong Kong marathon as a part of her preparation for his campaign in the Boston Marathon.
The reigning national Milo Marathon queen aims to claim a qualifying time in the Boston Marathon which will be her ticket to the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Joining Tabal today is her coach John Philip Duenas and Chobbie Duenas. Aside from them, other Cebuano running enthusiasts are expected to see action today. (FREEMAN)