Christine Hallasgo upsets Mary Joy Tabal in SEAG marathon

CAPAS, Tarlac—The most surprised individual at the end of the women’s marathon in the 30th Southeast Asian Games on Friday morning was the winner herself.

Christine Hallasgo, a native of Bukidnon, upstaged the more accomplished Mary Joy Tabal, the Japan-trained Cebu runner picked to win her second straight gold medal.

But Rio Olympian Tabal slowed down in the final stage of the 42.195 race, allowing Hallasgo, a first-timer in the SEAG, to take advantage and rule the event many thought was going to be Tabal’s.

“Talagang hindi ko expected na manalo dito, first time ko po sa SEA Games,” said Hallasgo, stressing that she badly wanted to give host Philippines a great start in the opening of the athletics competitions.

“Talagang pinagbutihan namin para makakuha ng ginto sa opening day. Marami kaming entry sa athletics ayoko na mahuli kami.”

Hallasgo clocked two hours 56 minutes and 56 seconds in topping the event while Tabal, who collapsed at the finish line, submitted a time of 2:58.49.

Unlike Tabal, who spent three months in Yokohama, Hallasgo stayed behind with fellow low-profile national team mainstays in Lingayen, Pangasinan, starting Sept. 1 until they all made the lonely trek here.

In the men’s side, the two Filipino bets—Jerald Zabala and Anthony Nerza—wound up fifth and sixth behind winner Indonesia, second-placer Thailand and third-placer Malaysia.

 

Source: Manila Bulletin