Elite runners Elmer Retolado and Gretchen Felipe ruled this year’s edition of the Pilipinas Akyathlon held in Itogon, Benguet Feb. 2 making them the national skyrunning champions.
Retolado defended his title in the 49-kilometer event by setting a new personal record with six hours, 25 minutes, and 34.9 seconds from his previous record of 6:28:16.
The Rizal native was followed by Anthony Calixterio with a time of 8:33:45 and Henry Joe Cotillon with a time of 7:53:59.
On the distaff side, Itogon native Felipe topped the event with a time of 8:09:42 followed by Trisha Reyes with a time of 9:41:12 and Brendalyn Balucas with a time of 9:54:53.2.
Overall champion for the 25-km was Ypril Manzano who clocked 3:18:29.9 followed by Kyle Redentor Antolin with a time of 3:38:19.6.
Jennyvi Fontanilla, last year’s top winner in the 49-km women, ruled the 25-kilometer category with a time of 3:36:09 followed by Sunshine Wanawan with a time of 4:40:3.9.
Baguio runner Vinson Ramos led 50 racers in the 10-km category with his record of 59:17, beating his last year’s record of 59:49 while Benedict Aquino placed second with a time of 1:17:51.
Marychiel Morales topped the 10-kilometer female side with a time of 1:21:4.3 followed by Evelyn Ninong with 1:56:43.
The event was organized by the Philippine Sky Running Association with support from local government units. – Ofelia C. Empian
April 17, 2024
