BACOLOD City — Western Visayas athlete Mark Jaydan Tasoy powered his way to the region’s first gold medal in the National PRISAA Games after dominating the men’s 3,000-meter steeplechase event at the Panaad Park and Sports Complex here.
The 19-year-old Filamer Christian University standout clocked 11 minutes and 12.10 seconds to secure the gold medal and give Western Visayas an early breakthrough in the national meet.
Tasoy finished comfortably ahead of Central Visayas’ Jhonn Marc Dizon, who settled for silver with 11:24.00, while Negros Island Region’s John Mark Sustento claimed bronze in 11:33.10.
The freshman criminology student from Nabas, Aklan admitted he did not expect to win the event after only placing second during the regional qualifying competition.
Despite the unexpected victory, Tasoy said the triumph made all his sacrifices in training worthwhile as he celebrated his first-ever gold medal in a national tournament.
Tasoy earlier stamped his class in the regional PRISAA meet in Antique after ruling both the 5,000-meter and 1,500-meter races to qualify for the national championships. He is still set to compete in both events in Bacolod.
Western Visayas continued its strong campaign in athletics behind another stellar performance from thrower Shiene Villa, who completed a double-gold feat after winning both the shot put and discus throw events.
The 15-year-old Hercor College athlete from Mambusao, Capiz said she is hoping to add another gold medal in the javelin throw competition.
Villa shared that one of her biggest dreams is to earn an athletic scholarship to help ease her family’s financial burden, especially since her mother is working overseas. She also hopes to someday represent the Philippines in international competitions.
In swimming, Western Visayas’ Candace Franco also delivered a strong showing after capturing gold medals in the girls’ 200-meter freestyle and 200-meter butterfly events./PN
