SUBIC BAY FREEPORT: Cebu is set to field a formidable team at the 2025 National Age Group Triathlon (NGAT), scheduled for January 25 and 26. Leading the charge is Andrew Kim Remolino, the reigning men’s elite champion, as the competition promises to be a decisive event for athletes aiming to qualify for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand later this year.
According to Philippines News Agency, Remolino, who secured a silver medal in aquathlon at the 2023 Cambodia SEA Games, expressed the challenges and preparations ahead of the upcoming race. “It’s gonna be a hard race to start the season since everyone’s really getting ready for it,” the 23-year-old from Talisay remarked. He emphasized the significance of the NGAT as the first qualifying race for the SEA Games, underscoring the team’s focus on sharpening their skills before the event.
Remolino’s triumph at the 2024 NGAT, where he completed the Olympic distance triathlon of a 1.5-kilometer swim, 40-kilometer bike ride, and 10-kilometer run in 56 minutes and 56 seconds, was a narrow victory over fellow Cebuano Matthew Justine Hermosa. Hermosa finished with a personal best of 56:57, while Baguio City’s Dayshaun Ramos completed the race in 57:31.
Defending the women’s division title is Raven Faith Alcoseba, who finished last year’s event in 1:03:55. She outpaced competitors Erika Nicole Burgos of Tanauan, Batangas, and Kira Ellis, who clocked in at 1:05:39 and 1:06:16, respectively. Notably, Hermosa, Burgos, Ellis, and I±aki Emil Lorbes claimed the mixed team gold medal at the Cambodia SEA Games, adding depth to the participating athletes from Cebu.
The Cebu delegation, coached by Roland Remolino, features a diverse group of athletes across various categories. Standout names include Renz Wynn Corbin in men’s elite, John Michael Lalimos in men’s junior elite, Nicole Marie Del Rosario in women’s elite, and para triathletes Alex Ni±o Silverio and Cedei Abellana. Youth and age group competitors such as Zackary Angelo Da Silva, Henry Ezekiel Go, and Venice Herbias are also anticipated to make a strong showing.
Coach Remolino has high expectations for his athletes, aiming for podium finishes across the board as they prepare to make their mark in the upcoming triathlon season.
