By Nick Giongco
John Chicano eclipsed his personal best en route to winning the country’s first gold medal in the 30th SEA Games. (Mark Balmores)
SUBIC BAY, Zambales—Hometown boy John Chicano gave host Philippines its first gold medal Sunday after ruling men’s triathlon in the 30th Southeast Asian Games.
Chicano crossed the finish line waving a Philippine flag and posted a time of one hour 53 minutes and 26 seconds in ruling the swim-bike-run endurance race.
With the sun shining brightly at the Boardwalk, Chicano’s first-place finish was his first in the biennial sportsfest after placing second to Nikko Huelgas two years ago in Kuala Lumpur.
Still, it was another 1-2 finish for the Philippines as Kim Remolino of Cebu followed the 28-year-old Chicano, coming in with a clocking of 1:55.03.
Indonesian Muhammad Ahlul Firman took third with a time of 1:57.10.
Remolino, 19, led the way in swimming before Chicano took charge in the bike and running phase.
Source: Manila Bulletin
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