Villanueva tops women’s aquathon

MANILA, Philippines - UP tanker Andrea Villanueva took top honors in one of the many memorable moments in yesterday’s first Atleta Ako Women’s Aquathlon at the Philsports in Pasig City.

Villanueva banked on her strength in the swim to erect a comfortable lead that stood as her cushion as she struggled in the run leg.

“My swimming was okay but I got tired in the run. Overall, I’m happy with my performance because this is a special race open only for females,” said Villanueva who negotiated the 500m swim and 6k run standard distance in 39 minutes, 38 seconds for the gold medal in the 18-24 age class.

A large field of 240 participants joined the race organized by BikeKing headed by Raul Cuevas, supported by Atleta Ako and presented by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) thru their Women In Sports program under commissioner Akiko Thomson-Guevara.

“I’m happy to see participants as young as seven-years-old to as old as 70 competing in one race. I’m looking forward to doing this again with the organizers,” said Thomson-Guevara who joined Atleta Ako owner Cecil Hufana in presenting the medals during the awarding ceremony.

Among those who topped their age category was former national duathlon champion Kaye Lopez who clocked at 40:37 for the gold medal in the 30-34 class in this event also backed by Klean Kanteen, Certified Calm, Arena, Neutrogena, Robinsons Supermarket, Del Monte, Rexona, Comark, Merrel, Crayola, Gatorade, Peak Form Manila and David’s Salon.

“The last time I competed in a regular race was during 2007 so I had managed my expectations,” said Lopez. “I want to congratulate the organizers for holding this race because it will truly help inspire women to achieve what they want to achieve not only in sports but also in life.” added Lopez.

Immediate families and friends came out to support the competitors in the race also backed by Nike Women, Century Tuna, Gardenia, Nestle Temptations, Unilab Active Health, WeatherPhilippines, EZ Laces, Flipbelt and Watsons.

The loudest cheers were reserved for the pair of septuagenarians Polly Joson and Charry Parpan who competed in the relay team with the 74-year old Joson teaming up with granddaughter Isabella Pascual and the 70-year old Parpan joining  hands with Lara Parpan. Both Polly and Charry completed the 15-lap run at the oval. They were delighted to be given the rare opportunity to display their skills along with younger athletes.