Cebu’s Kay Cundangan (left most) on the podium after topping the Bohol International Marathon. | contributed photo
CEBU CITY, Philippines—Cebu’s Kay Cundangan topped the women’s race of the Bohol International Marathon held last Sunday, August 27, 2023.
Cundangan clocked three hours, 17 minutes, and 40 seconds to secure the women’s crown.
“Getting up early to train has paid off. I did the work and reaped the benefits during race day—a happy run,” Cundangan said in a Facebook post.
It was Cundangan’s first 42k title.
The 30-year-old Cundangan said the win was “gratifying.”
“A spot on the podium was not the priority. Time among target ni coach and my teammates, in preparation for [the Cebu Marathon],” Cundangan said.
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She finished fourth in the previous edition of the prestigious Cebu Marathon.
“I was more shocked sa akong finished time kai I wasn’t checking my watch while racing. Run by feel lang, enjoying the view of Panglao and seeing many running friends [along the] route. It was so much fun,” she added.
Cundangan said it took a lot of hard work to get where she is now.
“You can’t give what you don’t have. I have put in a lot of effort and dedication to ensure not to suffer during race day. And it paid off,” she said.
Kay Cundangan in action in the Bohol Marathon. | photo courtesy of Paksit Photos
Men’s champ
Ethiopian Girma Tilahun walked away with the men’s marathon title in the race that started and ended at the BE Grand Resort Bohol.
The veteran Ethiopian marathoner finished in two hours, 35 minutes, and 34 seconds.
Florendo Lapiz (2:42.13) and Erwin Jopson Jr. (3:01.42) rounded off the top three.
In the women’s side, Evamie Villarin (3:47.54), and Glena Rose (4:23.12) were the runners up.
Meanwhile, Cherry Andrin stamped class in the 21k half marathon race. She breasted the finish line in 1:35.00, while Gella Mayang grabbed second place in 1:41.19. Rona Lacanlale salvaged the third spot in 1:48.50.
In the 10k race, elite triathlete Jonathan Pagaura ruled the men’s division in 37:10, while April Joy Alampayan topped the women’s side in 41:23.
In the 5k race, ace track and field athlete Asia Paraase flexed her winning form as she topped the category in 18:59.
Dirk Alparito topped the 5k men’s side in 18:36.
/bmjo
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