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SEPTEMBER 2016

ARIANA DORMITORIO

2015 ASEAN MOUNTAIN BIKE WOMEN’S ELITE OVERALL CHAMPION

HOW TO BE ”TRUE” CHAMPIONS BY BRETT SUTTON AND MAT O’HALLORAN

MARELLA SALAMAT

2015 SEA GAMES ROAD CYCLING WOMEN’S INDIVIDUAL TIME TRIAL CHAMPION

TRI AVENUE BEST FINDS ALONG CHINO ROCES

THE

KIM MANGROBANG 2016 ITU TRIATHLON ASIAN CUP CHAMPION

CHAMPIONS

EDITOR’S GUNSTART Vol. 4 No. 2

Parental Guidance

e wanted to feature the three champions—Kim, Marella, and Ariana, so we can inspire and give a peg to everyone wanting to up their game. I knew there would be parallels among them— their determination, mental toughness, and focus, things that you would normally expect from a winner. But what surprised me was one key success factor that was common for all three—parental support. We’re not just talking here of the usual financial support or being stage parents but I’ve-got-your-back, all-out, all-in, let’s-do-this kind of backing. Their parents actually agreed, not only consented, for them to delay their studies and concentrate on their sport full-time. Now that’s not an easy decision in the context of our culture where a diploma is considered to be the best legacy parents can give to their children. But they understood the demands of the sport, the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the very special talent that their kids are blessed with. So these parents are equally champions in our book. For this issue, I really wanted to know how a champion’s mind works. So I invited myself to the training camp of Trisutto in Jeju Island in Korea. But unfortunately, my travel plans got screwed up. However, Coach Brett Sutton, arguably the best triathlon coach in the world, was kind enough to share with us his thoughts on how to be a champion. Together with another Trisutto coach, our very “own” Mat O’Halloran, they gave us a preview on how they produce legends in Trisutto—the world’s most successful triathlon coaching team.

Monching Romano Editor-in-Chief

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF : Monching Romano MANAGING EDITOR : Cheenee Pontejos ART DIRECTORS : Johnmer Bautista Emmeline Sia-Ngo CONTRIBUTORS : Des Arellano Mathieu O’Halloran Brett Sutton PHOTOGRAPHERS : Raphael Iñigo, Tong Pascua and Oliver Atendido of Photo-Ops Photography Edsel Ochoa

IDEALISK INC.

Unit 217 La Fuerza II Building, Pasong Tamo, Makati City Publisher/CEO Monching Romano Creatives Johnmer Bautista Emmeline Sia-Ngo Sales and Marketing Teresa Soriano Kitkat Faylona For inquiries and feedback: Email us at racedaymagazine@gmail.com RaceDay Magazine is published bi-monthly. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in part or in whole, without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the publisher. All information, content and services are provided “as is” without any kind of warranty. In no way shall RaceDay Magazine be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential damages that may arise from any of the products, advice, reviews or information obtained from this magazine. Copyright © 2016 All rights reserved

CONTENTS

5 6 8 10 12

TRI THINK TANK: How to Be “True” Champions by Brett Sutton and Mathieu O’Halloran

WHERE TO FIND US: 2XU Glorietta 3, Makati

BALESIN ISLAND RESORT

THE CHAMPIONS: KIM MANGROBANG 2.0 Stronger, Braver, Fiercer

BIKE TOWN CYCLERY Pasong Tamo, Makati

GRAN TRAIL Pasay Road, Makati Alabang, Muntinlupa

PEDAL PUSHERS BIKE STORE

ARIANA DORMITORIO Mountain Bike Phenom

Pasong Tamo, Makati

PRIMO CYCLES Burgos Circle, BGC Taguig

R.O.X. Bonifacio High Street, Taguig

MARELLA SALAMAT A Budding Road Champ by Des Arellano TRI AVENUE by Cheenee Pontejos

RUNNR Alabang Town Center, Muntinlupa Trinoma, Quezon City Bonifacio High Street, Taguig

RUDY PROJECT Glorietta 3, Makati The Podium, Mandaluyong Alabang Town Center, Muntinlupa SM Mall of Asia, Pasay Trinoma, Quezon City Bonifacio High Street, Taguig

SABAK Pasong Tamo, Makati West Gate, Alabang, Muntinlupa

SPECIALIZED Pasong Tamo, Makati West Gate, Alabang, Muntinlupa

THE CITY CLUB AT ALPHALAND MAKATI Ayala Avenue Extension, Makati

CREDITS

ON THE COVER

Photo: Raphael Iñigo of Photo-Ops Photography Hair and Makeup: Arlyn Basa and Arriane Basa

THE VILLAGE SPORTS CLUB BF Homes, Parañaque

TRI TEMPLE Pasong Tamo, Makati

WEIRD CYCLES Lipa, Batangas Pasong Tamo, Makati

YELLOW CAB All Branches

racedaymagazine www.racedaymag.com

TRI THINK TANK HOW TO BE “TRUE” CHAMPIONS by

Brett Sutton and Mat O’Halloran

Coach Brett

Finding Divine Discontent It’s easy to get comfortable after a big win. I make it a point to put the athletes in uncomfortable situations, when they think they are good enough. However, it’s important for them to still be having some sort of enjoyment and see the light at the end of the tunnel. Regular reality checks with continuous challenges are critical. It keeps the athletes down to earth, hungry, and reminds them of the bigger picture. Especially, on what the real level is. When we talk about great, we always start with the best ever, then go down from there. Good is a general term that’s always relative to your competition. There is a point, where the majority of improvements need to come from the physiological side, before they become physical. Never being content is key to the pursuit of athletic excellence.

Finding Divine Discontent Complacency is always the first step towards diminishing returns. Sometimes it comes from within, other times it’s due to constant praise and being coddled by peers, who convince you that you have done enough. It can be a cultural thing. Staying driven, realistic and hungry, in a “happy” way is a quality that many top athletes have. Some of course, do so in a negative way. So it’s important to walk the fine line, beside an overly cynical or excessively negative attitude, because that’s how a lot of athletes get discouraged from self-challenges. To reach your full potential, it’s imperative to stay away from the “good enough” mentality. Because there is always room for improvement, at all levels, no matter how small the margins of improvements to be reached.

ver the years, I’ve had many athletes come to me, wanting to be champions. Just a few where willing to do what it takes. For some, it was just about the training programs. These athletes, or journeymen, as I call them, never understood that the workouts and sessions are simply the cherry on top of the cake. You can copy, plagiarize or emulate the workouts of the best, but may not get to their level. Training the body is pretty simple. It’s what most coaches do. I have had my best success, by coaching the athletes mind. While some resist, I’ve had many who not only went to the top, but also became better humans in the process.

They Don’t Look For Clues Lots of athletes come to me, looking for some type of secret—a missing piece to their very incomplete puzzle. I keep preaching the same principles, micro improved and slightly adjusted over time through trial and error. I maintain the same parameters of simplicity, repetition, and mental fortitude. When an athlete fails to reach their best, it’s not because of one little thing. That’s just the ideology of mentally weak people. It’s always the combination of several factors, often, a manifestation of their attitudes. It’s not how much or how fast you train. A bit more or a bit less, better gear or a more precise number really makes no real difference at the top level. It’s HOW you do things and HOW you see things that make the difference. Developing Their “Red Meat” Computers I’ve seen the massive shift on gear, data, and devices over the past 30 years. The sooner they start with the gadgets, the less self-aware they will be later on. It’s always hard to coach the numbers athletes because they tend to fail to adjust when faced with imperfections. They set expectations and establish limitation. Few sports, actually use such devices for effort and pacing, why should triathlon be any different? Often, those who emphasize the numbers, use it as a compensation for their lack of athletic abilities and low pain threshold. They think they can outsmart and suffer less than others. I can tell you that most of my best athletes were the least sharp with technology and the most in tune with their bodies. Conclusion It will be the coaches or supporters’ job to make sure that these athletes are in the right environment, mindset, and have the right objectives in order to walk a straight and narrow path. I look at building athletes like forging a sword. It needs to be put in the fire then hammered, time and again, so it becomes strong and sharp, ready to battle against any opponent. Brett Sutton is an Australian triathlon coach and a former professional boxer, boxing coach, elite swimming coach and co-founder of Team TBB (The Best you can Be). Dubbed as “The Doc,” Brett has coached various World, Olympic, and Ironman champions; including Rio 2016 Olympic Women’s Triathlon silver medalist and London 2012 Olympic champion Nicola Spirig. As well as Ironman world record holder, Chrissie Wellington and Beijing 2008 Olympic champion Emma Snowsill. Hoping to share his training strategies to triathletes all over the world, Brett continues to train and encourage triathletes to become future and consistent champions.

Coach Mat

here is a lot to be discussed when it comes to the best of the best in any given sport. A lot of them are mortal; they have physical and psychological weaknesses, just like all ordinary people. It’s also common to find civilians with equal, if not better, physical abilities and raw talent for a specific skill. Why do some have just a few good races and then struggle after? And then, how can some stay at the very top for so long? It’s pretty simple to realize it, when you spend time with a top athlete. There’s something about their character—an intangible vibe. How they do things, what they say, and especially, what they totally avoid. None have secrets or special gear. They just are, or built to be.

They Don’t Look For Clues In this day and age, there is a lot of information available to athletes. In fact, it’s too much. The belief that the “secrets” are out there, easily found and for free is pure fantasy. Where is the logic and advantage you get by doing the same thing as everybody else? It really just causes athletes to fall into a trap of cognitive dissonances, never really knowing what to focus on and constantly changing their approach. The best answers and information can be found by observing the best. By doing what they do, according to your circumstances. Simplicity and monotony, has helped a lot of athletes be their best. Developing Their “Red Meat” Computers It’s easy to point out that technology is making humans less aware and less reliant on their instinct—this on a general aspect, not just sport. From cell phones to remotes, humans look to screens and buttons for information to commit action. This is so far off from what sport is all about, the connection of the body and mind. Top athletes typically use technology, to squeeze out that final 1%—but of course, they never rely on it, especially in races. A techie approach is definitely not how they got to their present level and developed into world class athletes. They emphasized or worked on feelings and sensations, motions and movements, thoughts and focus. Not on an ideal number, range or equation. Conclusion It’s so hard to explain on paper or even verbalize the actions and demeanor of a real champion, at the top 1% of the sport. You need to see it for yourself, during the hard and tense moments of training or in competition. They are very human. They have quirks and they might be eccentric. But at the end of the day, they become exceptional because of something within, a particular belief, an astute feel for the sport, extra focus and more which is something to be proud of. It cannot be faked or bought. It must be practiced consistently in training before it can be applied on race day. These athletes don’t have an “off switch”—a champion is what they are. Mathieu O’Halloran was a former resident athlete at the National Canadian Triathlon Training Center, after which he worked on a drilling rig near 60th parallel North to jumpstart his travels around the world. After a few years racing hand to mouth as a pro in Asia, he settled in the beautiful Philippines. He was also hailed as 2014 AsiaTri Coach of the Year. These days, he coaches full time with Trisutto. www.trisutto.com/mat-ohalloran | www.matohalloran.blogspot.com

THE

CHAMPIONS SALAMAT

MANGROBANG

DORMITORIO

Words: Cheenee Pontejos and Des Arellano | Photos: Raphael Iñigo of Photo-Ops Photography and Edsel Ochoa Hair and Makeup: Arlyn Basa, Arriane Basa and Jeri Sebastian

hat do Michael Phelps, Gwen Jorgensen, Simone Biles, Nino Schurter, and Usain Bolt have in common? Yes, they are all champions of their respective fields— swimming, triathlon, gymnastics, mountain biking, and marathon. With the recently-concluded Rio Olympics, people’s interest and love for sports intensified all around the globe. Here in the Philippines, everyone got even more elated when our 25-year-old weightlifter from Zamboanga City Hidilyn Diaz won silver in the women’s 53kg weight division. But even before Diaz ended our 20-year Olympic medal drought, triathlon has already been contributing to the country’s sports standings. In fact, we dominated this field in the 28th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games held

in Singapore last year. Home-grown triathletes Nikko Huelgas and Claire Adorna drew first blood in their respective categories and Adorna was followed by fellow Filipina triathlete, Kim Mangrobang who got the silver. But our continuous success doesn’t end there. Upand-coming cyclist Marella Salamat also aced the Road Cycling Time Trial women’s division in the last SEA Games while another biking phenom Ariana Dormitorio—currently the number one female mountain biker in the country, bagged gold in the 2015 ASEAN MTB Cup. And just last August 28, Dormitorio brought home the bacon again in the second leg of UCI XCO Asia Mountain Bike Series in Malaysia despite having a crash on the first lap of the competition. Mangrobang also claimed her gold in the 2016 ITU Triathlon Asian

Cup in Subic last April, defeating rivals from Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. In a basketballcrazy country like ours, it is certainly a glorious time for sports where athletes from other fields also excel locally and internationally, validating Filipino heart and pride. These young champions who focus on their respective goals and strive hard to achieve them definitely revived our attention to sports. But what does it really take to be on top of your game? In this issue, we’ll help you dissect what’s inside the heart and mind of these promising young athletes—Dormitorio, Mangrobang, and Salamat. And if you’re planning to be one of them, better take their stories at heart. Who knows, you might be the next Filipino athlete standing tallest on the podium.

KIM MANGROBANG 2.0 STRONGER, BRAVER, FIERCER S

he’s in the lead wearing the Philippine colors. Deafened by the fervent cheer from the crowd, her mind is only focused on that long line with five interlocking rings on it—blue, yellow, black, green, and red. When she finally crossed the finish line, everything felt ecstatic! This is how the 24-year-old 2016 ITU Triathlon Asian Cup gold medalist Marion Kim Mangrobang envisions herself, claiming her ultimate dream. Winning an Olympic gold medal for the Philippines in her chosen sport—triathlon. Confident, you say? Well, she really is. Bubbly and energetic as always, Kim met us on a rainy Friday afternoon and indulged us with her cheerful stories. She’s currently waiting for her national visa to be released so she can join her fellow triathletes and train in Rio Maior, Portugal again. For the longest time, this positively tenacious triathlete is prepping for upcoming races. But while her training abroad is still on hold, Kim eagerly continues her rigid training locally under the wings of triathlon coach Ani de Leon-Brown. Intertwined with her life is a daily dose of swim-bike-run in Nuvali—a very familiar routine for triathletes. Focused on her goals, Kim claims her season has come.

“Feeling ko mas malakas ako ngayong year, physically and mentally. Mas prepared na ako and mas matured na ako sa racing circuit. Kasi this year, nung nag-Subic ako nagulat ako, ‛Wow! Mabilis pala ako!’” She won gold in the 2016 ITU Subic Bay Triathlon Asian Cup last April defeating teammates Kim Kilgroe who got the silver, Claire Adorna on 4th, and rivals from Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Honed for almost 11 years now, Kim traces her triathlon roots back in 2005 when she first joined the Philippine Triathlon Team. It was her former swimming coach, Abelardo “Abet” Alon-alon who encouraged the then 14-year-old timid student to try out for the national team. Kim’s parents—Richard and Dine, enrolled their daughter in swimming because they didn’t want a couch potato on summer breaks; only to find out they were honing a future medalist. “Sabi ni Coach Abet sa parents ko, ‛Try nyo mag-tryout since may dry run naman tayo ng running (aside from swimming classes). Tsaka mukha naman siyang maliksing bata. May potential sya.’” Thrilled for their unica hija’s another endeavor, the Mangrobangs let Kim participate. And as if she was trained for the spot, Kim clocked in 27 minutes for a 1.5k swim trial during her try out. Fast enough to make her eligible for the national team. But to

represent the Philippines internationally is another hurdle she had to surpass. Bearing the colors of our country required more from the neophyte triathlete. Aside from her swimming routines, she had to exert extra effort to excel in running and biking. “Since nakapasok na ako tapos ipapadala nga ako sa mga ibang bansa for training, sabi ni Coach (Abet) sa akin sumali ako ng fun run. Every week naman ako pinasali ng parents ko sa fun run, reyna na ako ng fun run! As in every week! Pero lumakas talaga ako tumakbo after that,” Kim giggles. But what challenged her most was being away from her parents whenever she was sent to triathlon camps. Still in her early teens back then, Kim used to be accompanied by her parents everywhere. Because the vivacious Kim we know now, the one who confidently snaps from left to right while expressing “Aha!” is far from the Kim she used to be—timid and reserved. Like other athletes, she suffered from homesickness a lot. “Dati sobrang mahiyain ako talaga. Kung pwede ko lang isama parents ko sa swim-bike-run sinama ko kasi sobrang nahihiya ako. May time na nagpunta ako sa Korea, hindi ako naka-(data) plan so wala akong roaming. Hindi ko sila ma-contact. Bata pa ako nito, mga 15 or 16, umiiyak ako tapos may karera ako kinabukasan,” she explains. But her commitment to the sport helped her surpass all her personal struggles. Her Mommy Dine even enrolled her in a personality development training to help the young lady build her self-esteem. “Kahit na kasundo ko naman sina LC (Langit), sina Mimi (Melliza Lucas), parang naisip ko ayoko na kumarera, tama na ‛to kasi naho-homesick ako. Pero ngayon naman nasanay na ako.” Petite and slender as she is, Kim started bagging medals for the Philippines at age 15. She recalled her first international competition in Singapore, barely a year after she got recruited. She was accompanied by the former national team head, Coach Peter Gonzales when she placed second in OSIM Singapore International Triathlon. But despite the recognitions she experienced, Kim thought everything was just for fun. “Akala ko lang kasi laro. Kasi nagsi-swim ako sa swim team everyday, nag-chi-Chinese garter pa kami bago magswimming or badminton. Tapos after ko mag-graduate ng high school, sabi ng coach ko nag-email sa kanya ’yung TRAP (Triathlon Association of the Philippines). Sabi andito raw sina Coach Brett Sutton and Nicola Spirig (competed recently and won silver in the 2016 Rio Olympics Women’s Triathlon). Baka gusto ko raw sumama. Kasi bata pa raw ako, malaki pa ’yung future and pwede ko matutunan,” Kim admits. Unlike other girls her age who nonchalantly hangout after classes and chitchat about their crushes, at 14, Kim already participated in a triathlete camp in Subic. But the threemonth training didn’t only prepare her physically but also made her realize she has already embarked to a long term career. Supervised by the Australian triathlon coach Brett Sutton, Kim trained alongside fellow Filipino and triathletes from across the globe. Her exposure to professional triathletes helped her realize what she was into and fully embraced the possibilities of becoming one of them too. “Sa Subic kasama namin sina Nicola (Spirig) and ’yung iba pang Olympian na nandito nung time na ’yun. Doon ko na rin nakilala sina Monica (Torres) and LC (Langit). Siguro 2004-2008 ’yung parang akala ko playtime pero doon sa Subic camp naisip ko seryoso na kasi napapagod na ako. Tsaka pinapadala nako sa ibang bansa and nagkakaposition na ako sa Asian races.” However, despite her early exposure to training and how she learned professionalism at a young age, Kim never thought of being childhood deprived. Her passion for the sport made her enjoy every bit of it even the rain or shine rigorous training. “Ginagawa ko sya dahil nage-enjoy ako, hindi sapilitan. Hindi ko sya ginagawa dahil gusto ko kumita ng money. Gusto ko lang mag-enjoy at nag-enjoy ako nang sobra sobra. Triathlon has not only kept Kim physically fit. It also helped her develop a sense of commitment and confidence to the sport. It has also brought her to some of the most beautiful

Asian Cup gold medalist Kim Mangrobang with her Pinarello Dogma F8 BOB bike.

“ “Gusto rin naman namin sumikat ’yung sport itself kasi sobrang advantaged tayo sa triathlon. Compared sa ibang sport kasi, walang height (hindrance). Kailangan mo lang mag-training and ’yung endurance talaga.” When asked about her expectations in next year’s SEA Games, “Feeling ko kasi kaya ganun is because ’yung triathlon ang tagal nawala sa SEA Games. So parang ’yung mga ibang country na-discourage mag-train. Unlike sa Philippines, continuous kasi may ibang race pa naman sinasalihan. Pero ngayon na sunud-sunod na ’yung triathlon sa SEA Games, feeling ko lalabas na ’yung iba pa ring malalakas,” she added. After enduring the waters on her skin, treacherous terrains, and asphalt on her soles, Kim continues to join races to earn points and qualify for the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. Despite her Trochanteric Bursitis injury last year which prevented her from running for a month due to excessive pain and inflammation on her hips, Kim is determined to ace all her next races. Currently on the 193rd spot in the Olympic rankings, she needs to climb her way up to the 150th. “’Yung sa nabasa ko, safe sa Olympics ’yung 150 rankings. For example sa 150 may 12 na Australian, tanggal na agad ’yung nine kasi three per country lang. Every Olympic cycle, nagre-restart ’yung count nya. So back to zero after the Rio Olympics. Pero ang kinukuha naming points ngayon is for the World Championships para mas malaki ’yung points namin for the Tokyo Olympics.” But like what they say in love, you can only choose one. In exchange for her ardent love for this elite sport, she had to put her fashion designing dream in abeyance. After graduating from high school, this strong-willed talent from Sta. Rosa decided to be a full-time athlete.

Ayoko sumali sa Olympics na wild card or ’yung magiging last ako. Gusto ko ’yung maayos naman ’pag tinawag ’yung Philippines. Pagkatapos nun, pwede na ako mag-retire.

“

places in the world like Spain, Australia, Portugal, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Middle East—sometimes to train but mostly, to compete. Because of these, she’s not afraid to express her assurance towards Filipina triathletes who she believes are way farther than triathletes from other Southeast Asian countries.

Though it wasn’t as hard as Kim thought it would be since she already had the consent of her primary supporters or “sponsors” as she would like to call them—her parents. “Usually kasi ’pag nalulungkot or nahihirapan ako tumatawag ako sa parents ko. Tapos sasabihin nila sige last mo na ’yan, tapusin mo na lang ’yung race mo para hindi naman nakakahiya sa TRAP. Pero kapag natapos ko ’yung race nang sobrang ganda, parang okay gusto ko pa ulit,” Kim explains. Like her teammates, the feeling she gets everytime she crosses the finish line makes her forget every sweat and blood she shed to be in this elite sport.

“I’m just so lucky and happy to have them as my parents. Sobrang supportive nila sa akin. Sabi ng mom ko, ‛Basta after ng lahat, ’yung masayang-masaya ka na sa na-achieve mo, pwede ka naman mag-aral. Kasi ’yung school naman laging nandyan pero ’yung lakas mo and kung nasaan ka ngayon, hindi mo sya maabot nang 40 years old ka na,’’ she added.

mo pa mas mataas. Lalo na ’yung nakita namin nung nanalo kami sa SEA Games, sobrang daming bata na nagsasabing, “Okay triathlon na tayo, triathlon na.” S’yempre gusto ko rin na maging inspiration kami ng mga kabataan.” But would you believe she still gets butterflies in her stomach whenever she competes despite all the races she was able to finish boldly? “Kinakabahan ako sobra, hindi nyo lang alam. Hindi ko pinapahalata pero sa loob ko, “Lord, please tapos na sana.” Because like what Kim confessed, with triathlon, she can only guess what’s going to happen—arms might cramp, bikes might crash, and legs might falter. No race is identical so despite her experience, she is never complacent. But with a concrete plan and determination, none of these can stop the Kim 2.0. from dreaming big for the country. And not just dreaming big, but transforming them into reality.

But when we asked her where she sees herself after retiring, she teasingly exclaimed, “Housewife!” Seriously though, this beautifully toned and tanned lady wants to graduate and eventually devote herself to marathons. But eons before that, she needs to achieve her ultimate dream, “Ayoko sumali sa Olympics na wild card or ’yung magiging last ako. Gusto ko ’yung maayos naman ’pag tinawag ’yung Philippines. Pagkatapos nun, pwede na ako mag-retire.” “After nito, mag-aaral na ako. Pero depende, baka naman nagtop 10 ako sa Olympics, uy isa pa! Hindi mo kasi masasabi kasi ’yung triathlon parang roller coaster, minsan nasa taas ka, minsan nasa baba ka. S’yempre kapag nasa taas ka, gusto

“ The moment your mind empties, that’s the time na you can put in things that you wanna happen. And if you really want something, just think positive, focus and work on it, kaya mo ’yun!

“

: MARELLA SALAMAT A BUDDING ROAD CHAMP C

onstantly teased because of her weight, Marella Salamat got into cycling as part of her fitness routine. Now slimmer, stronger, and with a SEA Games gold medal to boot, no one’s making fun of this cycling sweetheart any longer. Tanned, hair pulled back, and very relaxed in her faded jeans, Marella Salamat met us fresh from her win at the World University Cycling Championship held in Tagaytay last March 16-20. She bagged the bronze medal in the 80-kilometer individual time trial (ITT) category, against cyclists from countries such as Germany, Poland, Korea, and Australia. Shy and reserved, it’s interesting to learn that she didn’t have lofty ambitions of becoming the next Philippine Cycling Team’s “it girl”. Three years ago, her objective was very simple—to lose weight and maintain it. Marella was at her heaviest weighing 215 pounds back in high school. She would always be at the receiving end of weight jokes from classmates and friends from bowling—her first sport. But instead of giving in to those jests, she got even more motivated to lose weight. She vowed to shed those extra pounds before entering college and she did! Marella dieted, ran, and boxed her way to a lighter 150 pounds. But as if losing 65 pounds wasn’t enough, she added something new to her fitness routine. Inspired by her bowling coaches Edward Coo and Orlean Batistil, who are both into

SEA Games champion Marella Salamat with her Corratec CCT Team SEA Games Limited edition bike.

cycling; Marella got herself a road bike and decided to give the sport a try.

their sights on to a bigger goal—to compete in the 2015 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

Little did she know she was making a life-changing decision.

Striking Gold “I was supposed to join the SEA Games in 2013, but because I was new and didn’t have any international exposure, we had to let it go,” Marella explains.

Meeting Coach Ponga It was during one of her rides in Mall of Asia that she met veteran cyclist Arturo “Ponga” Lobramonte. “Na-flat kasi ako doon, siya ’yung tumulong sa akin,” Marella recalls. “Then out of nowhere, I asked for his coaching fees.”

When her chance to represent the country resurfaced in 2015, she didn’t pass on the opportunity. After thinking long and hard about the competition and eventually getting her family’s blessing, Marella joined the line up.

Coach Ponga told her, “Saka na natin pag-usapan ’yan. Sundin mo lang muna lahat ng sasabihin ko sa ’yo. Tingnan muna natin kung kaya kitang palakasin.” Coach Ponga had apparently been observing her for some time and had early on recognized her potential to excel in cycling.

“Nobody knew who I was,” Marella says of the other contenders. She didn’t have the opportunity to scout them as well. But Coach Ponga was confident that Marella was a shoo-in for the bronze medal. Though he still reminded his apprentice, “Gawin mo pa rin ’yung makakaya mo.”

It became the onset of a successful partnership which was first challenged during Tour of Clark in 2013, where the newbie cycling sweetheart placed first in the ITT category.

Despite her lack of global experience compared to other opponents, Marella bagged the gold in the ITT category. She completed the 30-kilometer course in 44 minutes and 46.38 seconds besting crowd favorites from Thailand and Singapore. It was her first international race, just barely two years into competitive cycling and yet, the self-declared underdog has come a long way.

When asked about her beloved coach, “Parang tatay ko na siya.” While some training sessions have brought her to tears, she is confident that he is bringing out the best in her. “I trust him,” Marella emphasized. Under his tutelage, Marella earned a coveted spot in the Philippine National Team. The two eventually set

Winning the gold medal in her first international competition has definitely made an impact on this 22-yearold athlete’s life. However, Marella admits, “I still don’t know what to say during interviews.”

“ But like other athletes, her growing career required some sacrifices. Marella had to take a leave of absence from her Dentistry course at the University of the East to focus on training for the race full time. “Sabi ng parents ko, huwag ko na piliting ipagsabay ang school at training, kasi parehong babagsak.” Despite a little setback with her studies, Marella’s Daddy Rod and Mommy Marivic continued to be her staunchest supporters even if it also meant less time with their daughter. Her training consisted of daily 100-kilometer rides in Subic and Olongapo and race against ex-pros or veterans of the local cycling circuit. What’s the best thing about racing against men? “When they get chicked,” she laughs. Getting ready for the SEA Games also meant a complete change in her lifestyle. Late nights out are all part of history now. “My friends had to understand that I don’t do that anymore.” But was it all worth it? “Yes,” she exclaimed.

Physically, you and the other competitors are more or less the same … lahat naman kayo ensayado. It’s the mental toughness that will set you apart from the rest.

“

Trade-offs While there was no pressure to win in the SEA Games, Marella gave her best shot. “I wanted to make sure that I didn’t waste the opportunity … nandoon na ako eh.”

Mentally tough For the budding road champ, cycling is all about pushing her limits. “Every single time I hop on my bike, gusto ko i-achieve another personal best,” she explains. “There’s always a goal to reach.” “I was taught by my parents to excel in whatever I do.” When she has to dig deep during a race, Marella relies on her mental toughness. “Physically, you and the other competitors are more or less the same … lahat naman kayo ensayado. It’s the mental toughness that will set you apart from the rest.”

“During training sessions, I don’t like bringing a car to get to the meeting point, tinatamad ako. I prefer to bike all the way from our house. At the end of the session, while everyone’s already relaxing, I still have to bike to get home.” “So during a race, iniisip ko pauwi pa lang ako.” Marella says this routine gives her an extra push. Cycling could be boring to watch for regular spectators. They mostly if not always, look forward to who’s going to cross the finish line first. For Marella, however, being on the saddle excites her the most. She relishes every strategy and all the “mind games” her chosen sport requires. “You have to know who to check so they can’t break away from the peloton. You also have to know when to go all out and have the presence of mind not to show your opponent that you’re tired even if you really are.” “It’s like chess on wheels,” she laughs. Moreover, her work doesn’t stop upon stepping on the podium. Marella also gives importance to how she won. “Minsan kasi, nag-podium ka nga, pero kaunti lang naman kayo,” Marella notes. She reviews her race time, fellow cyclists, and other skills to improve more. And while Marella trusts her coach, she is also not afraid to ask questions. “Every time he asks me to do something, tinatanong ko siya, ‘saan ko magagamit ’yan? Paano ko maa-apply ’yan sa karera?” It’s a continuous learning process and she embraces every minute of it. Succession plans At 22, she’s already giving back to the community she loves and has loved her back. In line with her birthday celebration, she recently organized a race called Bugallon Cycling Classic in Bugallon, Pangasinan—her dad’s hometown. Open to girls and boys from 15 to 24 years old, its objective was to discover the next generation of cycling champions. “Ang daming mga batang malalakas,” she added. With both feet firmly on the ground despite her achievements, Marella knows her cycling career will not last forever. “It’s not your whole life na malakas ka.” In fact, she’s giving the sport her full attention until 2018, then will assess where things go from there. “The focus right now is to defend my SEA Games title next year.” Part of her preparation is a trip to Germany, where she’ll be training intensively for two months. “When I get to join the 2018 Asian Games, I’ll see how I’ll perform there before deciding if I want to aim for the Olympics.” With her consistency and perseverance, a promising young cyclist is definitely on the right track.

TRI AVENUE

Tri Temple

If you want to TRI, this is the place to be—Chino Roces’ Triathlon Avenue! Formerly Pasong Tamo, this stretch in Makati is home to different top of the line bike stores and tri gym, making it easier for triathletes to purchase and train.

TRI TEMPLE PRIMAL APE CROSSFIT

From apparel and accessories to their Swim Lab, Power Lab, and Bike Garage, Tri Temple is definitely a one-stop shop for all your tri needs! You can find anything from gears, accessories, and bike mechanics to training facilities like the 4-feet endless pool (with multiple intensity current simulation) used for swim stroke analysis with the help of top-notch coaches. Cervelo, Pinarello, Specialized, State Bicycles, and Felt bikes are only some of the premier brands they carry. Also, thru Power Lab or their indoor biking station, athletes can train on their bikes with guidance from The Sufferfest videos.

Located at 2135 Chino Roces Avenue, Barangay Pio del Pilar, Makati City and operates daily from 9 AM to 7 PM. Contact: 0928-6578266

Weird Cycles

The home of the German-manufactured and championship-winning bicycle brand—Corratec. Weird Cycles provide quality bicycles suitable both for enthusiasts and professional athletes. Also offer different services including bike repair, tune up and wash with wax, brake bleeding, single speed tune, bike packing or unpacking, wheel alignment, overhaul, and group set change making it a one-stop-shop for all bike aficionados. Weird Cycles is also the sole and official distributor of ABUS products such as bike helmets, uGrips, and locks with vast array of designs and colors.

Weird Cycles is situated at Unit 8A, La Fuerza Plaza 1, Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City and opens from Monday to Thursday starting 9 AM to 6 PM and Fridays to Saturdays from 10 AM to 7 PM. Contact/s: (02) 398-0310; 0917-593102

Specialized/Dan’s

Best known for their premier Americanmanufactured bicycle lifestyle brand— Specialized. This shop offers Specialized bikes for road, mountain, triathlon and other end use. Apparel, bike accessories, and food supplements of different brands are also available in the store, providing the customers an extensive range of technically advanced and tailored gears and garb. Specialized also has one of the biggest service areas along Chino Roces for those who want their bikes (even other brands) washed, tuned, assembled, or repaired with the expertise of their seasoned bike mechanics.

WEIRD CYCLES

BIKE TOWN CYCLERY SABAK

SPECIALIZED/DAN’S PEDAL PUSHERS

Located at Units 14-15 La Fuerza Plaza 1, Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City and accommodates clients from 10 AM to 7 PM daily. Contact: (02) 553-4919

Pedal Pushers

FOCUS ATHLETICS

The only store in the metro where you can find the legendary bicycle tire brand known and coveted for its speed and maximum performance— Clement. Pedal Pushers Bike Store also distributes Prologo saddles as one of the official dealer stores in the metro. Developed in Italy, Prologo offers technically modified and tailored saddles suitable for mountain, road, triathlon, and other end use. And these saddles are recommended to clients using the first in the Philippines biomechanical system called MyOwn which identifies the best saddle best on each rider’s physiology.

Pedal Pushers is located at Unit 3 La Fuerza Plaza 2, Chino Roces Avenue cor. Sabio Sreet, Makati City and opens every Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 7 PM. Contact: (02) 754-3026

Bike Town Cyclery

The sari-sari store of bike stores where you can find road, mountain, and tri bikes and their parts of different brands! Bike Town Cyclery is also known for their BikeFit system which helps riders identify the perfect bike for their physique to lessen possible pain during long rides. They also carry unique items and exclusive brands such as Enduro wheel sets, Envie, Chris King, Parlee, and Capo bikes plus imported handmade frames. They also offer personalized or customized frames depending on clients’ preference and maintenance services such as spa, wash, and overhaul with the help of their veteran bike mechanics.

TOW & STOW INDUSTRIES

Located at 2240 Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City and operates from Monday to Saturday starting 10 AM to 7 PM. Contact: (02) 261-7392