Running queen Artjoy Torregosa shines as Asian Orthopedics team savors back-to-back success
Long distance runner Artjoy Torregosa suffered an injury after snaring the crown in her first full marathon during the Cebu City Marathon 2024 last January.
That is why she did not expect much to win another race especially that she only had two weeks to prepare for it.
But to her surprise, Torregosa overcame the odds and went on to clinch the women’s 21K title of the SM2SM Run 12 last Sunday at SM Seaside City.
Torregosa crossed the finish line with the fastest time of 1:26:03 among female entries, just 20 seconds ahead of second placer Nhea Ann Barcena (1:26:23).
“Wa gyud ko ga-expect nga makadaog ko ron kay nainjury ko pagkahuman sa CCM like one month gyud ang recovery nya two weeks ra akong training. Dako kaayo akong pasalamat ni Lord labi na nga gitagaan ko ani na blessing,” said the pride of Nieves, Agusan del Norte.
Interestingly, Torregosa is the second athlete of Asian Orthopedics triathlon/multi-sport team backstopped by the trio of doctors Pierre Mella and Reneil Jay Peña and businessmansportsman Afshin Ghassemi to bask in the glow of success after Franklin Yee just a week apart from each other. Yee topped the opening leg of the Cebu Duathlon 2024 last February 25 also at SM Seaside.
Torregosa and Yee are also members of the University of San Carlos (USC) track and field team under the guidance of well known running coach Arvin Loberanis.
Torregosa credited her most recent triumph on the manner by which her Asian Orthopedics team took care of the IT band syndrome she sustained after navigating the grueling full marathon course during the CCM two months ago.
“Asian Orthopedics helped me to treat my injury and recover fast. Thank you for not only welcoming me to your team but also for always keeping me safe and in top condition in my races. I’m extremely grateful for the support they’ve given in my athletic career,” said Torregosa.
For his part, Mella is elated at what Torregosa has achieved at this stage of he blossoming career.
“I first met Art last year just before the Singapore Marathon where she emerged as first runner-up. Since that time, she developed her confidence in achieving her personal best all the time,” said Mella.
“Coach Arvin Loberanis, the head coach of USC track and field, works closely with Asian Orthopedics Spine and Joints Center for any overuse injuries these athletes incur. We also offer them sports stretching with strength and conditioning for sports-specific needs,” Mella added.