THE Quota 12K Classic had the usual favorites Simon Losiaboi and Mary Grace delos Santos winning their respective 12K divisions in runaway fashion.
However, it was tainted by an accident that may cost a runner his career. University of Southern Philippines Foundation runner Revodem Aranas was hit by a motorcycle near JY Square Mall and landed at the hospital with a fractured left leg.
Race organizer Raffy Uytiepo downplayed it, saying Aranas did not incur a serious injury.
“It was a very unfortunate accident. The driver was not paying attention. Wala man mi magkulang sa marshalls and there was even a Citom personnel at the area,” said Uytiepo.
Aranas was the top Cebuano finisher in the 21K division during last January’s Cebu City marathon at fifth place.
In the race, Simon Losiaboi, oozing with self-confidence, said he had an easy time in yesterday’s race even saying he need not exert a lot of effort to win because his closest rival in the local scene, Mendel Lopez did not compete.
“There wasn’t any challenge so I did not even try to run faster. It would have been better if Mendel raced. I like racing with him,” said Losiaboi.
Lopez skipped yesterday’s race to rest after competing in the Hong Kong Marathon the other Sunday.
During his previous race, Losiaboi was disqualified after wearing a different race number, which was a violation of IAAF rules. That loss ended his 13-race winning streak.
Losiaboi was upset during that time but yesterday he said it was no reason for him to stop running.
“We can’t always win it all. I am not disappointed. I am ready to start another winning streak,” said Losiaboi.
Losiaboi finished in 39 minutes, 37.55 seconds. Elmer Bartolo came in second with a time of 41.05.90, while Jobert Carolino came in at third place with a time of 42:13.41.
Jess Gonzaga, Reiz Enriquez, Paul Zapico, Noel Tillor, Jordan Dolpalco, Sherwin Managil and Roger Saldo also made the top 10 in the men’s division.
Women’s winners
In the women’s division, delos Santos continued her winning streak with a time of 48:29.63, while Madelyn Carter finished at second place with 50:21.42.
Joeyrey Lee was at third place at 55:16.80, while Merlyn Alin and Emily Chongbian also made it to the top five.
Others who made it in the top 10 were Emily Rosas, Michelle Discaya, Josiefe Leyson, Annie Neric and Rachel Limtong.
In the 6K division, Reprinel Banzon (20:11.72), Joony Ycong (20:24.22) and Philip Dueñas (20:53.01) took the top three spots in the men’s division, while Mary Joy Tabal (24:43.57), Aiza Baguio (26:20.44) and Mary Aimee Aranaydo (34.26.91) were the podium finishers in the distaff side.
The race was organized by Quota Women’s International and the proceeds of the race will go to the organization for the deaf and mute.