Erlinda Lavandia lands bronze in javelin

MANILA, Philippines — Erlinda Lavandia gave Team Philippines its first medal in the 23rd World Masters Athletics Championships as she placed third in the women’s 65-69 javelin throw in Malaga, Spain Monday.

Lavandia threw the spear to a distance of 27.95 meters on her first attempt to take the bronze in the event that American Linda Cohn dominated with a world record-breaking 34.81m heave.

The Filipina legend tried to improve on her effort but managed only 25.36m, 25.28m, and 25.97m and a foul on her succeeding tries to finish behind Spaniard Emilia Mesa, who posted a second-best 28.90m.

Lavandia’s podium finish saved the day for 16-member Team Philippines, which failed to crack the Top 3 in the other events.

Debutant Arniel Ferrera settled for fifth in men’s 35-39 hammer throw with his best effort of 52.36m as Ignacio Fernandez of host Spain ruled the event in 58.50m. Finishing ahead of Ferrera were silver medalist Jiri Koukal of Slovak Republic (57.33), bronze medalist Genro Paes of Estonia (56.32m) and fourth placer Joan Bea of Spain (55.88m).

Meanwhile, javelin thrower Danilo Fresnido, winner in the 2016 edition in Perth, was scheduled to launch his bid for another gold in the men’s 40-44 division Tuesday.