CAMSUR — Edward Macalalad and national athlete Kim Mangrobang clinched titles at the 5150 Triathlon CamSur, with the event commencing and concluding at the Camsur Watersports Complex on Sunday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mangrobang, a three-time Southeast Asian Games champion, completed the triathlon — consisting of a 1.5-kilometer swim, 40-kilometer bike ride, and 10-kilometer run — in 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 35 seconds. Her victory not only placed her first overall among women but also secured her the top spot in the 30-34 age-group category, with leg times of 1:18 for the swim, 1:12:02 for the bike, and 45:27 for the run. Erika Burgos and Bea Quiambao followed with finish times of 2:26:33 and 2:29:28, respectively, to complete the women's podium.
Reflecting on her participation, the 32-year-old Mangrobang noted the enduring support of the CamSur community, recalling her experience from the 70.3 race in 2011. She attributed her success to the national team's year-round training regimen, emphasizing the significance of the 5150 Triathlon as a season opener and a component of their preparation for races extending till November, including her aspirations to compete in the 70.3 half-Ironman event.
On the men's side, Edward Macalalad emerged victorious with a time of 2:08:38, leading John Ciron and Mark Hosana, who finished in 2:10:36 and 2:11:27, respectively. Macalalad, aged 27 and also the winner in the 25-29 age group, shared his pre-race nerves and satisfaction with his performance, marking it as a comeback after the pandemic and expressing his eagerness to continue competing.
The event also celebrated victors in various age groups, highlighting the diverse field of participants and the competitive spirit across categories.