Turno tops Comval Aquathlon

JOMAR Turno bested other participants by clocking 16 minutes and one second to clinch the overall 2049 years old category of the Visit Davao Fun Sale (VDSF) Comval Aquathlon over the weekend in Mabini.

He bested Edison Cayano (16:24) and Dos Gumela (16:33).

In the boys/girls category (7-10 y.o.), Xander Barraca ruled the event (3:20) while Matthew Dugaduga (3:21) and Keanne Albert Alpiz (3:22) placed second and third, respectively.

The champions in all categories received cash prizes of P7,000 and plaques each while the second and third placers claimed P5,000 and P3,000 with plaques. finishers also received medals and gift items from the event sponsors.

Jojo Bernadas, who topped the female 35-49 adult category, said the race was challening. “I am a runner and joined ultra marathon. But this is my first time to swim in open water and join this kind of competition.”

The aquathlon was the final event for the Visit Davao Fun Sale (VDSF).

“The Comval Aquathlon is the last VDSF event hosted by Comval from mountain climbing for women last April, to Mars Attack National Climb last May and successfully ended in the fine waters of Mabini Protected Landscape Seascape, our way of celebrating Father’s Day,” Provincial Tourism Officer Christine Dompor said.

With 96 participants, the aquathlon covered a 600-meter swim challenge from Kopiat Island to the mainland, particularly at Manaklay Beach Resort, and a 1,000-meter run for the adult category and kids 11-14 years old. The kids’ 7-10 covered a 200m swim.

Compostela Valley Governor Tyron Uy said, "We would like to position Comval as a prime tourism destination, also hosting triathlon and other sports events. We have this beautiful island for a great crosschannel experience. (fe fuentes-maestre/ID Comval)