Cebu’s Hermosa snares men’s crown in 5150 Dapitan triathlon

CEBU, Philippines — The multi-titled Cebuano triathlete Matthew Justine Hermosa made his 5150 debut a memorable one after emerging as the men’s overall champion in the highly successful second edition of 5150 Dapitan Triathlon in Zamboanga del Norte on Sunday, September 8.

After coming out first in the 1.5-kilometer open water swim with a time of 17:56, the in-form Hermosa stayed in control with 1:00:21 and 37:16 clocking in the 40km bike and 10km run, respectively, on the way to grab the coveted crown with an aggregate time of 1:56:56.

“This was my first time competing in 5150, and I’m proud to have won,” said Hermosa. My goal has always been to make the Hermosa name known in triathlon, and this is a step toward that.”

The 18-year-old pride of Talisay City courageously endured leg cramps in the run portion of the grueling three-in-one race to cross the finish line ahead of his closest pursuer, Tri SND Barracuda star Satar Salem, who settled for second in 1:58:57. Dayshaun Ramos placed third in 2:01:45.

“The key was to never give up,” added Hermosa, who also topped the men’s 15-19 age group. “Satar was right behind me the entire time, which kept me pushing harder.”

In the women’s division, Nicole Andaya of the Usuals team reigned supreme with a time of 2:36:00.

She finished more than three minutes ahead of Joanne Cruz from Tri SND Barracuda, who wound up second at 2:39:59. Lourdes Ramos occupied the third spot in 2:40:05.

Hermosa and Andaya were also honored with the prestigious Bagong Bayani awards together with Paul Jumamil and Nicole Del Rosario. These accolades highlight not only athletic excellence but also values of resilience, perseverance, and national pride - qualities that echo the country’s rich history of heroism.

“Racing in Dapitan makes you think about our history, especially Rizal’s legacy. I’m grateful for this honor,” said Hermosa, who took home a total of P65,000 in cash prize for his dominant performance in the Ironman Group-organized event supported by Dapitan LGU headed by Mayor Seth Frederick “Bullet” Jalosjos.