CEBU, Philippines — Veteran runner and renowned eye surgeon Dr. Potenciano “Yong”” Larrazabal III has finally received the official copy of the House resolution congratulating and commending him for being the first Filipino to conquer the punishing World Marathon Challenge held on February 7-13, 2020.
Cebu Fifth District Representative Vincent Franco “Duke” Frasco, himself a sports enthusiast, personally handed over to Larrazabal the mounted copy of the resolution yesterday, February. 8.
Frasco sponsored Resolution No. 203 that was adopted by the House of Representatives on August 31, 2021 duly signed by Speaker Lord Allan Jay Q. Velasco and House Secretary General Mark Llandro L. Mendoza.
Larrazabal thanked Frasco and the 18th Congress for adopting the resolution, saying that it is such a great motivation to continue advancing his advocacy in promoting the sport he loves and a great reminder that there are leaders who back the progress of all types of sports in the country.
“It has been two years, but I will always be grateful to everyone who believed in me. So, this commendation is not mine alone. I share this with my family, friends, and supporters who helped me achieve my goal and with my beloved Cebu,” read Larrazabal’s Facebook post.
“You’re welcome, Doc. Cebu and the Cebuanos are proud of you!” read Frasco’s response.
The World Marathon Challenge, comprising seven marathons in seven continents within seven days, began in Antarctica where competitors ran the standard 42.2-kilometer marathon distance in the seven continents of Antarctica, Africa, Australia, Asia, Europe, South America and North America.
Larrazabal traversed the globe and finished at 12th place overall.
Frasco said Larrazabal made history as the first Filipino marathoner to compete and finish the World Marathon Challenge, and thus earned the privilege of joining the unique Seven Continents Marathon Club, which is reserved for athletes who have ran a marathon within the Antarctic circle, and in the other six continents. — EBV from PR