Last Updated on August 27, 2023 by Andrew Pirie
PATAFA Weekly Relays 2023
*For Previous Writeup 13.08.23
Pasig 20.08.23
Table of Contents
Rising Stars of Filipino Women’s Middle Distance: Batalla and Ellis Ignite the Track at 2023 PATAFA Relays
In a thrilling revival of Filipino Women’s Middle Distance running, two teenagers showcased their prowess at the 2023 PATAFA Weekly Relays in Pasig. Both achieved personal bests as they raced to the finish line.
14-year-old Loraine Batalla from Team iSKOLAR, a 2023 Palaro Triple Gold Medalist in Sec Girls 800, 1500, and 3000, clinched the victory in the 1500m with a time of 4:55.60. She narrowly defeated National Triathlete Kira Ellis from Get Coach’D Academy, who finished at 4:56.68. Ellis, 17, has faced Batalla multiple times, with their previous encounter at the PRADA meet at Brent on March 4 in the 3000m. This budding competition might be the next big junior rivalry, reminiscent of Palaro stars Meagey Ninura and Jieann Calis, who unfortunately faded off the scene during the UAAP.
Yet, Ellis made a comeback by setting a new personal best of 10:43.75 in another event, surpassing Batalla’s PB and her Palaro winning time of 10:49.1. The Fil-Kiwi beauty touted as the next Maureen Schrijvers!
Batalla had rejected a recruitment attempt by the National Academy of Sport as her coach Yourke Tamayo had continued to support her training during the pandemic.
In the Under 20 Division, the 2022 Palaro Champion, Lheslie De Lima, now representing UST, clinched the 1500m with a time of 5:09.07.
Sep Blesse Placido from Pasig, who was the Palaro Champion for the 2000m Walk, secured the victory in the U18 Girls 3000m Walk.
For UST, Onyamerkl Espinosa triumphed in the Boys 5000m, finishing in 16:49.40.
Sprints
John Dave Tumangan (One Cainta) recorded a season’s best, winning the 100m in 11.15. Previously, Tumangan secured the 4th position in the Palaro Final in Marikina City with a time of 11.39. This highlights the subpar condition of the Marikina track oval. Which was constructed by the LGU during the rainy season without adequate drying time? Moreover, Tumangan clocked 22.59 in the Weekly Relays at Pasig, a significant improvement from his 23.00 time on the inferior track at Rodriguez Centre in Marikina just three days prior. Tumangan was well ahead of Nash Candelario (Ateneo) 11.45 and Jasper Obanon (UST) 11.54. John Abetong of Dasmarinas won the Boys U18 100m in 11.53.
Iza Pangilinan from Rizal Province now running for UST won the U18 Girls 100m with a PB of 12.93. Jamaica Santiago of Dasmarinas City was second in 13.00. And surprisingly the multi-talented Loraine Batalla took third in 13.14 PB. UST had a total of 7 Girls in the U18 100m Dash. Pangilinan also won the U18 Hurdles.
Throws
Rashied Burdeos (UST) 35.40m and Princess Iglesias (One Cainta) 35.61m won the Javelin Throw
*Both Relay Teams from Adamson in 4×100 Male and Mixed 4×400 were disqualified due to athletes competing in different age grades. This was due to the fact their athletes had competed individually in U18 and then in Relays in U20 which is not allowed in the rules. They must be more careful in future as it is clearly stated in the competition guidelines that you need to compete in whatever grade you declare the start of registration.
Conclusion:
The 2023 PATAFA Weekly Relays in Pasig have once again showcased the immense talent and potential. That the Philippines holds in the realm of athletics. From the riveting middle-distance races featuring the likes of Batalla and Ellis to the impressive sprints by Tumangan.The event was a testament to the dedication, hard work, and passion of these young athletes. The event also highlighted the importance of proper facilities and conditions. As seen in the significant time differences recorded by Tumangan on different tracks.
The disqualification of the Adamson relay teams serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to competition guidelines. And ensuring that athletes and coaches are well-informed about the rules. It underscores the need for meticulous planning and understanding, especially in such high-stakes competitions.
As we reflect on the performances and outcomes of this event. It’s evident that the future of Philippine athletics is bright. These athletes, with their determination and skill, are not just breaking records but also setting new standards for the generations to come. The PATAFA Weekly Relays continue to be a platform where dreams are realized, rivalries are born, and legends are made.
Full Results
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“In 2020, Andrew advanced to the position of Vice President with the Association of Track and Field Statisticians, having devoted seven years as an active member. His impressive track record includes roles such as a PSC Consultant and Research Assistant (2013-2015) and a distinguished stint as a Sprint Coach and Consultant at the renowned Zamboanga Sports Academy (2015-2017). Today, he offers his expertise as a Consultant Coach with VMUF, starting from 2021.
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