Torres seizes duathlon gold

Monica Torres speeds off on her bike during the duathlon event of the 30th Southeast Asian Games Duathlon at Subic Bay Freeport Zone on Monday. (Jonas Reyes)

SUBIC BAY – The Philippines won another gold medal, thanks to Monica Torres, as she dominated the women’s duathlon in the 30th Southeast Asian Games inside this premier freeport on Monday.

The 35-year-old Torres broke away from the pack with almost a three-minute lead en route to a winning time of 2 hours, 8 minutes and 44 seconds.

Torres said that it was an honor to represent the country and also dedicated the win to God and her family.

Thailand’s Pareeya Sonsem bagged silver, finishing at 2:11:18, while behind her was Vietnam’s Tri Phuong Tring Nguyen who clocked 2:14:20.

Phl’s Jelsie Sabado finished sixth, logging 2:19:17.

Meanwhile, Indonesia bested the Philippines in the men’s division as John Jauhari upended Joey Delos Reyes by 13 seconds. Jauhari logged in 1:52:51, while Delos Reyes clocked 1:53:04.

Thailand’s Nattawut Srinate timed 1:53:05 to bag the bronze medal.

Delos Reyes’ teammate, Jarwin Banatao, ranked fifth (1:55:19).