MANILA – Jeson Agravante returned to the National Finals of the 42nd Milo Marathon after ruling the men’s event in the Metro Manila leg.
The Bacolod City native finished the 42-kilometer race in two hours, 35 minutes and 10 seconds – punching a ticket to the National Finals on Dec. 9 in Laoag City.
Finishing behind Agravante – the National Finals champion two years ago – on Sunday are fellow Bacolodnon marathoners Erick Paniqui (second place) and Rolando Espina (fourth place).
“I am thankful that I am back in the National Finals. I will try to regain the Milo Marathon King title,” said Agravante, who bagged P50,000 cash and a trophy for winning the leg in Pasay City.
Agravante failed to defend his title last year when he did not finish the race at the Cebu City Sports Complex.
Meanwhile Christine Hallasgo of Malaybalay, Bukidnon dominated the women’s race in three hours, five minutes and 17 seconds. Trailing behind were Jho-an VIllarma and Cinderella Lorenzo.
More Western Visayas-based marathoners are expected to qualify to the National Finals as Mandurriao, Iloilo City hosts the sixth qualifying leg on Oct. 7./PN
