Fil-Spaniard swimmer in ‘seventh heaven’

The 15-year-old Jurado breezed past his rivals in the final event with confidence, timing in 4 minutes and 26.81 seconds to rule the boys 400m freestyle.

In total, Jurado collected seven golds in the annual meet, thus becoming the most bemedalled athlete so far after Ilonggo bets Ma. Victoria Cruz and Andrei Villanueva took six golds in dance sports.

“It’s a very big victory since it’s my first PRISAA. I’m very happy that it went out so well, it’s a really good experience,” said Jurado. “After this I’m tapering, which is like, technically try to gain back my energy, focus on technic, ready my muscles for the big race.”

The University of Bohol standout guns for his first Palaro gold like one of his idols TJ Amaro, a Naga City native who banners the Ateneo swimming program in the UAAP.

“My family inspired me, my coaches, friends and teammates as well… For me, winning seven gold and getting the maximum of this competition, means a lot to me since my training paid off and showed my training put to good use and I reach my goal, overall.”

Meanwhile, Villanueva Gabao Institute Inc. of Bicol Region reigned supreme in girls 3×3 basketball where Alyna Regidor, Kristine Macalinao, Erica Omnes, and Nicole Anne Non spearheaded the squad.

In PRISAAYAWAN, Central Luzon was named the overall champion after besting Negros Island Region and Western Visayas, which settled for silver and bronze, respectively.

In men’s football, NIR arranged a finals showdown against Central Visayas Thursday at 8 a.m. at Ramon Torres National High School Sports Complex in Bago City.

As of 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Central Visayas remained at the top of seniors division with 62 golds, 41 silvers, and 31 bronzes, with Western Visayas (62-31-35) and CALABARZON (35-24-39) following behind. SOCCSKSARGEN (21-36-20), last edition’s overall champ, is at No. 4. — Mark Rey Montejo