RP tracksters bag 3 golds

BANGKOK -- The youth-powered Philippine athletics team sizzled with three gold, five silver and five bronze medals in the second day of the Thailand National Open Wednesday at the Bangkok National Stadium.

Eduardo Buenavista led the Filipino gold medal winners with his victory in the steeplechase in eight minutes and 58.82 seconds to firm up his chances of making it to the Sydney Olympics as one of the Philippine Amateur Track and Field Association (Patafa) candidates.

Buenavista beat compatriot Daud Mama, who logged in 9.24.20 to edge a Malaysian for the runner-up honor.

Roselyn Hamero booked the Philippines' second gold in the discus throw with her 41.15m heave.

Percela Molina, a consistent performer in the Philippine Athletics Open, was the meet's newest revelation when she bagged the heptathlon gold with 5,014 points.