They are also aware that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are just around the corner. The SEA Games will be a takeoff point for some of them.
KIM Mangrobang looks for a strong run in the 30th SEA Games.
Despite the absence of two-time champion Nikko Huelgas, the national triathletes are confident of retaining the title when they see action in the 30th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games from 30 November to 11 December.
Chief of mission William “Butch” Ramirez said triathletes are on track in their SEA Games preparation following an impressive performance in the ASTC Acaba Triathlon Asian Cup in Jordan last week.
In that prestigious tourney, reigning champion Kim Mangrobang finished fifth with a record of two hours and 7:25 minutes while Filipino-American Kim Kilgroe emerged seventh with 2:10:20 while 28th SEA Games titlist Clare Adorna ranked 10th with 2:24:48 in the elite women’s category.
Meanwhile, John Chicano and Edward Macalala finished in the 27th and 29th positions respectively in the men’s category.
Mark Hosana and Andrew Kim Remolino got eliminated after failing to finish the race.
Ramirez said local triathletes have a handsome chance of winning not only because of their familiarity with the trail and weather, but also because of their intense preparation and previous performance.
“Our athletes, through the proper management of their coaches and the national sports associations, have remained deep in focus as they aim for medal victories in the SEA Games,” said Ramirez, also the chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission.
“They are also aware that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are just around the corner. The SEA Games will be a takeoff point for some of them. Let us support their bids and pray for their victory.”
Chicano and Andrew Kim Remolino will serve as the country’s bets in the men’s individual competition while Mangrobang and Kilgroe will fly the flag in the women’s side.
Emmanuel Kimpan Comendador and Jarwyn Banatao are competing in the men’s duathlon while Jelsie Sabado and Monica Torres are the country’s entries in the distaff side.
The Philippine mixed triathlon team is composed of Chicano, Mangrobang, Kilgroe, Adorna and Filipino-Spanish Fer Caseres.
The duathlon mixed team is made up of Emmanuel Commendador, Joey de los Reyes, Monica Torres and Mary Pauline Fornea.
Efraim Hamadon Iñigo is the team’s reserve player.
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