Boracay: Competing for international experience and with modest expectations, Jie Angela Mikaela Talosig surprised herself with a bronze at the close of the 4th Southeast Asia Open Water Championships off Boracay Newcoast in Aklan. A mainstay of the De La Salle University varsity swimming team, the 20-year-old Talosig had a memorable international debut with a time of one hour, 18 minutes and 57 seconds for third place in the women's 20-years-and-above division.
According to Philippines News Agency, Talosig expressed her delight at the unexpected podium finish. "Honestly, I just wanted to experience competing at the international level so to win a bronze medal for my efforts and in front of a hometown crowd at that is a pleasant surprise," Talosig said. She previously won gold in the women's 800-meter freestyle and secured two bronzes in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 88 held at New Clark City Aquatics Center in Capas, Tarlac. In the same event, Indonesia's Nadya Sirasawati claimed victory with a time of 1:07.23, while Thailand's Musikul Hirunhas settled for silver at 1:09.15.
In addition to Talosig's success, Julia Jewels Pobleto also clinched a bronze in the girls' 12-13 3km contest, clocking in at 50:40. She trailed behind Thailand's Kanchana Konsub and Aliyah Sawangmun, who completed the course in 47:16 and 49.48, respectively.
Philippine Sports Commission Chair Patrick Gregorio commented on the significance of the event, stating, "This hosting was just a dress rehearsal for more international open water events." He emphasized the importance of promoting sports tourism and providing exposure to local athletes, enabling them to compete against top-tier international competitors with the encouragement of a supportive home audience.
Philippine Aquatics, Inc. secretary-general Eric Buhain expressed gratitude towards the PSC and participants for the successful execution of the three-day tournament. "With the gloomy weather before the meet, we feel relieved that the elements cooperated and that we had three straight days of ideal sunny weather for our competition. We could not have asked for more," Buhain noted. He also acknowledged PSC Chairman Pato for his full support in organizing the championships, paving the way for potentially larger international open water swimming events in the future.
