CEBU City Marathon 2014 Filipino elite champion Noel Tillor and Kenyan Abraham Missos may speak different languages but they think alike and understand each other when it comes to running.
Some elite local runners feel intimidated when racing against foreign runners but for Noel Tillor, they are worthy competitors and they help him perform better.
“Di ta angay mahadlok nila (Kenyans) kay ma improve man to kung ato gyud silang i-challenge,” said Tillor.
For Tillor, whose life was changed when he embraced running back in 2008, it takes perseverance and determination to cope with these dominant runners.
“Before I started running I had lots of vices, I was able to quit these vices because of the sport,” said Tillor. “I have also gone to different places because of the competitions I joined.”
The Bogo City-native recently placed second overall in the Borneo International Marathon last May.
Missos has the same take as Tillor when it comes to local competition and how he views his running foes.
“A man is a man. We may have differences but we have even chances in the running field,” Missos said. “Filipinos are great and tough runners, they are very good at ultra-marathons.”
The 28-year-old Missos has visited many countries in search for competitions.
The two athletes also shared some tips and techniques during the forum for the spectators. (RSC)