COBRA Ironman 70.3 Philippines: A Test of Faith

My legs had at least 3 years running experience when elite triathlete Noy Jopson convinced me to join this year’s Ironman event. He taught me swimming and cycling techniques necessary for long distance triathlon. Despite my panicking during the swim and weakness on the bike, I was always atoned by my running skills. In every race I pray that I reach the run leg for me to be assured of the finish.

Training was not easy. No wonder Noy is such a great athlete. We, TEAM REBORN, trained with him 12 weeks prior to the Cobra Ironman race and were always drained after every session. He is also a strict coach. We never let Noy see us slacking off. The training program he provided the team demanded not only our time but all our energies as well. Disciplines include swim training, cycling, running, gym training, core training, yoga/ pilates sessions and 2 or more combinations. Hot weather in Camsur was expected so we also trained at least twice a week at or until noon. We were preparing for the worst.

But unpredictable moments are common in multisport races and training. I suffered from colds and cough 2 weeks before race day and was getting worse. While anxious due to breathing concerns, I started having loose bowel movements five days before the race which made it difficult to hydrate and carbo-load. I was getting more anxious and panicky. I loaded myself with all the medications I can think of but believed I needed more. I prayed and begged that I be healthier on race day.

It is a custom for Cebu Executive Runners Club (CERC) members to attend mass a day before the race and ask for divine providence. I had to thank God again and again for all the blessings He had showered on me since I started training and it was the perfect time to ask for good health. I asked fellow Team Reborn and CERC member Annie if she wanted to go with me together with her supportive husband, Jet. All three of us attended mass. With my current condition, I prayed hard that I survive the race.

Race day. I was up by 2:30 am and started my usual race day routine. Ensaymada and banana for breakfast followed by all my medications including my daily FRS energy supplement. The trip to CWC lasted 10-15 minutes and I spent it praying and thanking God for giving me the opportunity to fulfill a dream. I prayed for a good race and for a strong will and body. Everything except my uniforms and waterbottles were already checked-in at the race venue so all I had to do was wait for gun start. After final preparations for the bike and run leg, the team rounded up and started a prayer. We then wished each other good luck and proceeded to the starting line.

GO!!! With very poor visibility in Lago del Ray, it was somehow predictable that I panicked during the swim leg. “God, please help me finish the swim leg” I prayed. Out of the water I then proceeded with the Bike leg. Despite having the entire course free of traffic, accidents still happen while cycling. Whenever I can, I prayed the rosary which is a practice I have when running marathons. After pedaling 90 kilometers, I was now in my comfort zone. However, running 21 kilometers under extreme heat after swimming and cycling is not easy. Cramps and dehydration set in while muscle fatigue ruin your running form. After 2 loops of the run course, the finish line was visible. “Three kilometers to glory” I said to myself. With friends cheering and the booming voice of the announcer shouting out names of the finishers as they crossed the line in the background, my heart beat faster as I drew near. Then suddenly, everything was a blur. Next thing I knew, I felt the finish line tape already in my hands. The surge of emotions was overwhelming: relief, happiness, fulfillment and gratitude. I finished strong in 5 hours and 39 minutes. All my prayers were answered. As I victoriously raised my fists up high, I thanked God for giving me a perfect race.

 (Photo Credits from J.Cua, C.Cases, A. Ansaldo, J. Perez, J. Neric and Timex Facebook Page)

 Published in SunStar Newspaper August 29, 2010 in John Pages Sports Talk Column