Sibayan, a criminology student of the University of Mindanao (UM), completed the 21K course that started and ended at the Rizal Park in one hour, 13 minutes, 27 seconds. It was Sibayan’s first taste of the Milo regional crown after finishing eighth in 2003 and fourth last year.
"Sa umpisa si (Jessie) Ano ang nangunguna pero sa may Victoria Plaza (about 3 kilometers from the start) iniwan ko na sila," said the 22-year-old Sibayan, who runs 27 kilometers from the UM campus in Matina to the hills of Eden Nature Park in Toril once a week for a month to prepare for yesterday’s race.
His training paid well as he defeated fellow UM runners Reynante Villarma (1:15:23) and Rodel Bustamante (1:16:42) for the title. Early leader Ano dropped to eighth place.
Bustamante, a graduate of criminology from UM and now a member of the Philippine National Police, ruled last year’s race here but failed to retain his crown because he was called for duty at Camp Catitipan the other night.
"At least nagqualify pa rin ako sa finals. Doon na lang ako magpapaalam sa mga commander ko para makapagtrain ako ng husto at makabawi," said the 25-year-old Bustamante.
Sibayan, Villarma and Bustamante are qualified to join the National Finals of this annual foot race held in partnership with Bayview Park Manila Hotel, Cebu Pacific, Adidas, Smart Kid, Department of Tourism, Addict Mobile Prepaid and Powerbar on Oct. 9 in Metro Manila.
The women’s 21K qualifying race was also dominated by runners from UM.
Banayag, a commerce graduate, clocked in at 1:26:48 to outrun current varsity athletes Judelyn Miranda (1:32:08) and Vivian Avergonzado (1:39:38).
After placing runner-up to Monalisa Ambasa (2003) and Stella Mamac-Diaz (2004) the past two years, the 23-year-old Banayag finally earned her first title here.
Ambasa already topped this year’s opening leg in General Santos City.
The men’s 5K fun run was ruled by Orlan Noel Leonor (15:50) while the distaff side was dominated by Elaiza Orduyo (20:25).
The Kiddies race was won by Jerson Galicia and Charlot Ybanez (6-9 age group) and Jimboy Ybanez and Alejean Tatoy (10-12).
Sta. Ana National High School swept the side events by topping the cheering event, the biggest delegation contest and inter-school running competition.