The new leadership of Triathlon Philippines has kicked off preparations for the country’s quest to send qualifiers to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Ramon Marchan, who was elected last August to head the federation formerly known as Triathlon Association of the Philippines, swears “the biggest focus is on the athlete.”
“To support them, you have to have events for them to participate in internationally,” Marchan said during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday.
Although no Filipino bet made the grade for the 2024 Paris Olympics, the 2028 Games could be different.
Marchan said providing the triathletes regular tournaments is key to success and this early, it is plotting an impressive showing in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games and a solid stint in the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya.
“We have already lined up the events locally as well as internationally. So the athlete selection is also a priority since our immediate target is the SEA Games in 2025 since there’s a lot of medals at stake.”
Marchan has taken over from Tom Carrasco Jr., who would still be very visible given his position as chairman emeritus and senior vice president of Asia Triathlon.
“He is still there as part of the federation’s ways and means. He’s still active in the athlete selection. He’s a man of few words. The gist is we continue, enhance and improve.”
The triathlon squad finished the 32nd SEA Games last May in Cambodia on top with a 3-2-1 gold-silver-bronze medal haul.
Kim Mangrobang, however, fell short at the 19th Asiad in Hangzhou, China after winding up 13th place in the women’s triathlon event.
Marchan, who was the former secretary general, said they are still working closely with Carrasco in the federation.
Elected last August, Marchan said among the programs he is looking to boost and develop are the athletes’ selection through ranking points, grassroots development programs and expansion of athletes’ base, as well as talent identification undertaking.
Also appearing in the same session presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Milo, Philippine Olympic Committee, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation were secretary general Sarita Zafra, U-23 elite athlete Erika Nicole Burgos, treasurer Ting Joson, medical delegate Dr. Iby Bautista, and the core group of Edgar Nicolas, Pet Salvador and Lala Cuoz.
TriPhil’s biggest project to date is the hosting of the Asian Duathlon Championships at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac on 26 November.
At least 10 elite men from Australia, Cambodia, Singapore, and Indonesia and seven elite women have so far been confirmed to see action in the prestigious meet.
