TRIATHLON has been known to be a sport for the rich. But Tabuelan Triathlon 111 has changed that impression as it has a division solely for locals of Tabuelan.
The Barangay Maravilla relay team composed of Francisco Alfornon, Ramil Moncada and John Lyndon Pelayo bested eight other local entries in the team relay in 2:19.48.
Alfornon, 43, doing the swimming discipline, is a fisherman and a father of three.
Not only were they able to race side by side with Cebu’s top triathetes but they also got to try a sport that is known to be a sport that only those who could afford can join.
“We are very thankful to Mayor Rex Gerona for letting the locals get involved in this kind of sporting event which we used to think is only for the rich. It was a great experience,” said Alfornon.
The strategy has inspired kids to try out the sport, just like Alfornon’s daughters, 10-year-old Candigail and nine-year-old Julia.
Julia dreams of earning a scholarship through swimming.
Mayor Gerona said he is already looking into putting up a grassroots program in swimming.
“We have already been scouting for committed swimming coaches to train our aspiring young swimmers and I hope that could materialize before the year ends,” said Gerona, who also joined the full-distance race.