Matthew Justine Hermosa will team up with Cebuana Raven Faith Alcoseba along with SEA Games gold medalists in Fernando Casares and Kim Mangrobang for the mixed relay triathlon race of the Hangzhou Asian Games on October 2. | Facebook photo
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Young Cebuano triathlete Matthew Justine Hermosa feels honored to represent the Philippines amid the pressure of delivering a medal in his debut in the Asian Games.
The 18-year-old triathlete from Talisay City, south Cebu will team up with Cebuana Raven Faith Alcoseba along with Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) gold medalists in Fernando Casares and Kim Mangrobang on October 2’s mixed relay triathlon race of the Hangzhou Asian Games at the Chun’an Jieshou Sports Centre Triathlon Course.
READ: Hermosa, Corbin, Del Rosario rule Go For Gold Sprint Race in Panglao
Cebuano triathlete Hermosa excited to race
“It feels very exciting and rewarding to be able to race and represent our country once more. I feel honored to be here together with the rest of the Philippine team,” Hermosa told CDN Digital.
Hermosa made a strong impression in the Philippine triathlon scene when he bagged a gold medal in the SEA Games earlier this year in Cambodia. He earned the gilt in the aquathlon’s mixed relay event along with Kira Ellis, Erika Burgos and Iñaki Lorbes.
This time, however, Hermosa races with the more experienced elite triathletes on Monday’s race.
READ: LIVE UPDATES: Hangzhou Asian Games September 29
Cebuano triathlete stays positive
Still, Hermosa expects the best results by staying positive.
“I always expect for the best outcome in every race and having a positive outlook and expecting the best outcome in every race can be a powerful motivator and mindset for achieving success,” Hermosa added.
Part of Hermosa’s optimism for good results come race day was his rigid preparation for this race under the tutelage of his coach Roland Remolino.
READ: Casares, Mangrobang rule Dapitan 5150 Triathlon
Last tune-up race for Asian Games
Recently, Hermosa ruled the Go For Gold 5150 race in Dapitan City with Alcoseba topping the women’s side.
It served as their last tune-up race prior to the Asian Games.
“As race day draws near, our daily training regimen remains relentless, and our minds grow sharper as we relentlessly pursue an inch closer to our goals,” Hermosa said.