Itoc wins at last

THERE was no mother or father to cheer for him at the finish line. But Willy James Itoc of Davao City was an image of a true champion, ever resilient, as he topped the boys 3K event of the 34th National Milo Marathon held in an out-and-back course at Roxas Avenue on August 29.

Jun, as Itoc is fondly called, outsteadied his rivals to top his division with a time of 12 minutes and 7 seconds in the historic race.

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"Lipay ko kaayo. Naa pa may nag-una nako pero nikarera nako mga pila nalang ka kilometro usa ang finish line (I'm so happy. Somebody else was ahead of me early on but I overtook him in the final few meters before the finish)," Itoc told Sun.Star Davao in an interview.

Itoc, who hails from Bago, Puan, said he conditioned himself to be confident and not to succumb to nerves as he did last year.

"I joined the Milo race for the first time last year. I'm so glad to win this year at last," said the 12-year-old Southern Philippines Baptist Theological Seminary student in the vernacular.

He thanked his uncle, Julito Lumansoc Jr., for supporting him in all his endeavors, including his Milo race campaign.

Itoc said his mother, Josephena, has been working as a caregiver in Dubai since he was seven years old while his father, Wilman, stayed in Pampanga since he was three.

Josephena gets to spend time with Jun and his elder sister Christie, though during vacations.

"I grew up without my parents on my side but I'm not making it as an excuse to lose my way. I have proven to myself that being a champion takes a lot of focus and discipline. I instead focus on my studies and in my sport, basketball. Running will always be a part of me, too," Itoc said.

Though the young runner had gone through challenges in life, he took each hurdle as a step to be stronger and to become a better person.

"I'm ready for each challenge and I know I can be better," said Itoc, his eyes showing the courage even as a young winner.

Courageous words from a true champion, not just in the footrace but also in the biggest race called life.