PANGLAO, BOHOL—Noted Cebuano triathlete John Philip Dueñas escaped with just minor injuries after figuring in an accident yesterday in the Safeguard For Men 5150 Triathlon here.
Dueñas, competing in the Filipino elite division, was at the latter stages of the 40-kilometer bike race when a child suddenly crossed his path near the transition area at the Bellevue Resort and Hotel. Dueñas wasn’t able to avoid the child, hitting him before falling to the ground, according to his prized ward Mary Joy Tabal.
Dueñas wasn’t able to continue the race and was immediately brought to the Borja Family Hospital in Tagbilaran City. He was later cleared of serious injuries and only suffered abrasions and a few scratches. The child escaped from the unfortunate encounter with minor injuries.
The incident, however, will jeopardize Dueñas’ participation in the Bataan Power Man Duathlon event later this month as he was advised by his doctor to rest to allow his injuries to heal.
Dueñas was considered the top contender in the Filipino elite division. He placed second to August Benedicto in last August’s Cobra Ironman 70.3 Philippines in Cebu.