KAUSWAGAN, Lanao del Norte (PIA)--As the sun's radiant rays pierced through the morning mist, a sense of determination and athletic prowess permeated the atmosphere as more than 250 triathletes from various towns in the country joined the first leg of the LaNorteMan Congressional Series 2023.
Organized by the province's esteemed representatives, 1st District Representative Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo and 2nd District Representative Sittie Aminah Dimaporo, the sports event aims to foster healthy competition as triathletes showcase their skills and push themselves to new heights while putting a spotlight on the mesmerizing tourism potential of the province, known for its natural beauty and bounty.
A triathlon is a multisport endurance event that combines three different disciplines: swimming, cycling, and running. The standard category, considered the ultimate test for triathletes, consisted of a grueling 1.5 kilometers of swimming, followed by 40 kilometers of bicycling, and concluded with 10 kilometers of running. Meanwhile, the sprint category featured a 750-meter swim, a 20-kilometer bike ride, and a 5-kilometer run.
Governor Imelda "Angging" dela Cruz Quibranza expressed her hope for more triathlon events in the province. She extended her best wishes to all participants, urging them to prioritize safety throughout their swimming, running, and biking endeavors.
Triathletes fearlessly dive into the waters of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, displaying their swimming skills in the first leg of the LaNorteMan Congressional Series 2023. (ADD/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
Age defying triathlete
Age is just a number, and Million Gallardo Solaiman from Saguiaran, Lanao del Sur, is a living testament to this adage. At 63 years old, he has proven that determination, passion, and a healthy lifestyle can defy the boundaries of time.
Since 2016, Solaiman has been an active participant in the triathlon race, which has also transformed his own life in remarkable ways. Despite his age, he boasts an impeccable physical condition, free from the burden of chronic illnesses and cholesterol-related concerns due to his active lifestyle coupled with his dedication to sports.
"Talagang nakatulong ito sa sarili ko kasi para sa health, wala akong nararamdaman na mga sakit (It really helped me personally because, in terms of health, I do not feel any illnesses at all)," he said.
A determined triathlete races through the course during the LaNorteMan Congressional Series 2023. (ADD/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
Empowering youth through triathlons
Yna Trinidad, a tourism student from the TRISOME team of Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte, said the event brought people together, creating a sense of belonging and fostering a positive environment for personal growth. She placed third in the Standard Distance Female Category.
"For those teenagers like me, mag-iwas ta sa mga bisyo, mas maayo na muengage mo with any sports like triathlons (For teenagers like me, let's avoid vices. It's better to engage in sports like triathlons)," she said.
For Jalal Dimaporo of Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte, triathlon is the perfect combination of competition and maintaining overall fitness. He also believes that sports are a powerful tool for steering the younger generation away from harmful behaviors.
"Para sa mga kabataan, sumali tayo sa mga ganitong mga activity para makaiwas sa mga masasamang gawain (To the youth, you should join activities like triathlons as a way to avoid engaging in negative activities)," he said.
As the triathletes dove into the waters, pedaled their way along the challenging highways, and sprinted towards the finish line, they embodied the spirit of determination and passion that knows no boundaries.
The LaNorteMan Congressional Series 2023 Leg 1 inspired people of all ages to embrace a lifestyle that celebrates athleticism, perseverance, and the captivating beauty of Lanao del Norte. The second leg is set to be held at Sultan Naga Dimaporo town soon. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
