PH masters’ athletes strike golds in Asian tournament

Brenda Zinampan

The Philippine Masters Athletics Team took off to a flying start at the 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championships in Chennai, India, as seasoned campaigners captured early medals to put the country on the winners’ board.

Leading the charge was Brenda Zinampan, who overcame injuries to seize the gold medal in the Women’s 45–49 100-meter dash—a triumphant performance in her first-ever sprint event on the international stage.

Not to be outdone, Marichu Gaston added to the Philippines’ medal tally by clinching the bronze in the Women’s 55–59 100-meter sprint, giving the team an early double podium finish in the women’s division.

Earlier, Colin “The Flash” Gordon delivered the country’s first medal of the meet, topping the Men’s 65–69 800-meter run with a commanding finish. His gold set the tone for what promises to be a memorable campaign for the Filipino contingent.

The Philippine delegation, backed by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Masters Games Association, is competing in a wide range of events, from sprints and throws to long-distance runs and race walks.

Colin Gordon

Representing the country are Florida Gonzales, who competes in the women’s 35–39 5000-meter race walk; Maricris Gammag, in the women’s 40–44 discus throw, shot put, javelin throw, and hammer throw; Loralie Sermona, also in the hammer throw; and Revelyn Marcos, who takes part in the 100m, 200m, and long jump events.

Also carrying the flag are Brenda Zinampan, entered in four events including the 100m, pole vault, 80m hurdles, and 400m hurdles; Maricar Gammad, competing in the 100m, 200m, 2000m steeplechase, and 300m hurdles; and Gaston, who races in the 100m and 200m.

In the senior women’s ranks, Ma. Carmencita Obmina-Muaña is running in the 5000m and 5000m race walk, while Salve Bayaban joins the 100m and 200m sprints.

In the men’s side, Elmer Sabal represents the Philippines in the 5000m, 3000m steeplechase, and 10k road race.

Rajat Chaudhary competes in the javelin throw, while Jocson Chan is entered in the 100m and triple jump.

Marichu Gaston

Alphonso Trece Academia takes part in the long jump, and Desederio Engbino joins the 1500m, 5000m, and 10k road race.

Renel Navarro contests the 200m, high jump, and long jump, while Santiago Ducay races in the 5000m, 2000m steeplechase, 100m hurdles, and 300m hurdles.

In the veteran men’s category, Severino Alacar competes in the 5000m and 10k race walk events.

Gordon, fresh from his 800m gold, is also entered in the 200m and 400m races.

Dennis Scott rounds out the team’s oldest age group as he competes in the 400m, 1500m, 5000m, 2000m steeplechase, and 10k road race. Philip Rasdas serves as team manager for the delegation.

The 23rd edition of the Asia Masters Athletics Championships gathers veteran athletes from across the continent to celebrate longevity, fitness, and friendly competition through track and field. With several events still to come, the Philippine Masters are determined to add more medals to their collections.

— Randy Caluag