MILO welcomed over 14,000 runners in the finale of the 39th National MILO Marathon held in Clark Pampanga;
Defending MILO
Marathon King Rafael Poliquit and MILO Marathon Queen Mary Joy Tabal
successfully held on to their crowns in the National Finals of the 39th
National MILO Marathon held in Angeles, Pampanga on Sunday, as they beat fierce
opposition in the 42K centrepiece event. Almost 14,100 happy runners enjoyed
the scenic route, and despite the challenge brought about by the rain, the race
was very safe and successful.
MILO welcomed over 14,000 runners in the finale of the 39th National MILO Marathon held in Clark Pampanga
Tabal joins the league of National MILO Marathon female legends who have won three consecutive championships namely: Arsenia Sagaray (1992, 1993, 1994), and Christabel Martes (1999, 2000, 2001). While Poliquit clinched
his second consecutive MILO Marathon King title. The champions received PHP
150,000 in cash and a trophy each. Tabal received an additional PHP 250,000 for
placing second in the 42K female open category. Both will also be sent by MILO
to the USA on all-expense paid trips to represent the Philippines in the
prestigious 2016 Boston Marathon, the world's oldest annual marathon.
They did it again. Mary Joy Tabal and Rafael Poliquit stole the show as the winners of the full marathon centerpiece event of the 39th National MILO Marathon National Finals in Pampanga.
It was a tight race at the top, with back-to-back
champion Poliquit finishing first with a time of 02:36:12, relegating rival
Juneil Languido to second place with a time of 02:36:21. Maclin Sadia
(02:37:43) followed in third. Poliquit, who was last year’s surprise winner,
shared that being able to defend his title is definitely special.
“It’s such a
blessing to win my second title in a row. I can’t explain the feeling. I’m proud because all of the hardships
and the challenges I faced during my preparations are worth it.” ~ Rafael Poliquit~
Air Force member Rafael Poliquit strikes a back to back feat as the MILO Marathon King two times in a row
In the distaff side, three-time MILO Marathon Queen
Tabal ruled with a time of 02:48:24, with Mary Grace Delos Santos (03:02:21)
and Christabel Martes (03:02:29) placing second and third, respectively. Tabal
shared that she was under so much pressure coming into the race, because
everyone was expecting her to win again.
“I couldn’t help but cry when I
crossed the finish line. I’m so happy and
relieved. I wouldn’t have achieved this without the help, prayers and support
of my family, friends, and my coach Philip Duenas.” ` Mary Joy Tabal~
Tabal joins the league of National MILO Marathon female legends who have won three consecutive championships.
Kenyan runners dominated the 42K open category, with
James Tallam (02:20:10) leading the male category, followed by Josphat Kiptanui
(02:20:49) and Julius Keprotich Seurei (02:21:54). In the female category,
Elizabeth Rumokol (02:43:45) led the ranks, with Mary Joy Tabal (02:48:24) and
Margaret Wangui Njuguna (02:49:32) completing the top three. Runners of all
ages joined in the 3K, 5K, 10K and 21K divisions, and well-known personalities,
including Yayo Aguila, Ara Mina and JC Parker, also joined in the grand finale.
MILO Sports Executive Andrew Neri expressed his
heartfelt gratitude for another amazing marathon season.
“We at MILO would like
to thank all of our partners who supported us at the 39th National
MILO Marathon. Today’s successful race is testament to our runners’ passion and
dedication to move forward in their champion journey. Next year is
the 40th year of the MILO Marathon, and we would like to invite
everyone to join us in celebrating this very important milestone.
Congratulations to all and see you next year!” ~ MILO Sports Executive Andrew Neri~
The fresh air and spacious race routes in Clark were enjoyed by the participants of 39th National MILO Marathon National Finals in Pampanga.
The young crowd bursted in cheer during the Cheerleeding Competition side event of the 39th National MILO Marathon National Finals in Pampanga.
The UP Pep Squad put up a jaw dropping dance routine during side events of the 39th National MILO Marathon National Finals in Pampanga