MANILA – Another Western Visayas-based trackster is set to strut her wares in Manila.
Aklanon jumper Shiela Salibio Talja formally commits to play in the Ateneo de Manila University.
The Malay, Aklan-native Talja confirmed her move and is set to make her Lady Eagles debut during the National Open 2018 slated from May 31 to June 4 in Ilagan City, Isabela.
“Nilapitan ako ng Ateneo. Nakita nila ako sa National Open last year,” Talja told Panay News. “Actually, hindi ko nga po ine-expect na kukunin nila ako. Until now hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala.”
“I have mixed emotions. I’m excited and at the same time kinakabahan dahil siyempre Ateneo ‘yun. But I will just do my best to help Ateneo’s track and field team,” she added.
Talja, a product of Malay National High School, was a gold medal winner in the secondary girls triple jump during the 2017 Palarong Pambansa in San Jose, Antique with her 12.18 meter leap.
At the National Open 2018, Talja will be playing in juniors hephathlon alongside with fellow rookie Viah Monstrales.
Talja was the third Western Visayas-based trackster who is set to debut in UAAP Season 81 later this year after Ilonggas Elvy Villagoniza and Pamela Marquillero of the University of Santo Tomas./PN
