While everyone’s attention was almost entirely focused on the bruising battle between the University of Cebu (UC) and the University of San Carlos-Basic Education Department (USC-BED) for the overall championship of the recent 17th Milo Little Olympics Visayas Regional Finals at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) last Aug. 25 to Sept. 1, not a lot knew that there were some individual athletes who stood out in the prestigious school-based, multi-sporting competition.
The more noted ones were UC’s ace swimmer Michael Ichiro Kong, Axl Catalbas of the Iloilo National High School (INHS) and University of the Visayas (UV) gymnast Marianne Alegado.
SWIMMING PRINCE
The 13-year old Kong, who helped the Webmasters earn a 17th straight secondary title, albeit the hard way, was considered the best in this year’s competition after winning nine gold medals.
His performance allowed UC to escape the rampaging USC-BED, which almost ended the reign of the Webmasters.
“I may have won medals but I still have a lot of improvements to make, especially my times,” said Kong.
Kong was a vital cog in UC’s final-day Houdini act as he collected three gold medals in the final day of swimming (800-meter freestyle, 100m freestyle and 800m butterfly) and logged two new records in the process (200m Individual Medley (IM) and the 200m freestyle).
ILONGO STAR
Meanwhile, 17-year-old Catalbas was responsible for the roaring start of the INHS team in athletics. That strong start also threatened to end UC’s reign as athletics superpower. At the end of the competition, INHS had 50 points good for second place.
Catalbas was at the forefront of INHS’ run as he lorded the tracks by harvesting golds in the 3,000m steeple chase, 5,000m run and the 1,500m run. He was also the first gold medal winner of the meet.
Back home, Catalbas said he joins fun runs to raise money for his family. After his father passed away a couple of years ago, Catalbas was determined to help his mother feed the family.
In his first Milo stint, Catalbas realized that joining races is not just about money, but also a chance to showcase his passion and sportsmanship.
“After joining the Milo Little Olympics, a lot of my dreams came true,” said Catalbas. “I have competed in the Western Visayas Regional Athletics Association (WVIRAA) but I only placed fourth or fifth. Now, I finally tasted victory,” said Catalbas.
“I never thought that I can reach my goals here in Milo, all I can contribute for team Visayas is my all-out performance in the national finals. I can’t promise them that I will win all my events but I will do my best.”
GYMNASTICS DIVA
In the elementary side, 10-year-old Alegado stole the spotlight in the gymnastics competition after harvesting gold in the beam, ball, hoop and ribbon events.
Her proud father Rebecco Alegado was there when his daughter achieved this dream haul.
“I am so proud of her,” said Rebecco. “I knew that she can do something great. I will always be by her side until she reaches her goal,” said Rebecco, who is handling an entertainment business for functions and parties. His children’s acrobatic talents are the highlight of his business.
Marianne was discovered after her family had a show in Mandaue City, which was also attended by UV’s head coach Darlene dela Pisa.
Visayas delegation head and Regional Finals organizer Ricky Ballesteros is excited about Team Visayas’ strong lineup for the upcoming National Finals on Oct. 19 to 21 at the Marikina Sports Park.
And for sure, Catalbas, Kong and Alegado will be at the forefront of the Bisdaks’ ambitious bid for a fourth straight national crown.