South East Asian Games 2015

2015 SEA Games Notes Athletics

From my notebook at 2015 SEA Games

Jun 20, 2015

Split Times for Mary Grace Delos Santos

(Timer Wenlie Maulas, Recorder Pirie)

Lap / lap time / total time

1 1:20.6 1:20.6

2 1:24.4 2:45.0

3 1:23.3 4:08.3

4 1:23.5 5:31.8

5 X 6:55

7 X 8:27

8 1:31.7 11:29

9 1:34.8 X

10 1:34.7 14:30

11 1:36.8 16:15 OL (1)

12 1:35.6 17:50

13 1:35.7 19:26

14 1:36.5 21:02 OL (2,3)

15 1:36.0 22:38

16 1:37.4 X (OL 4)

17 1:36.2 25:50 OL (1×2)

18 1:36.6 27:27 OL (6)

19 1:35.2 29:04

20 1:37.5 30:41

21 1:36.9 32:18 OL (1×3)

22 1:35.5 33:54

23 1:36.3 35:30 (OL 2,3)

24 1:36.4 X

25 X 38.38

4×400 Splits by Enzo

1. Caido 46.1 (lane 8)

2. Alejan 47.4

3. Bigyan 46.8

4. Bagsit 46.3

about 3:06.6 actual et. 3.06.84

Official times

1. Caido 45.84

2. Alejan 47.97

3. Bigyan 46.78

4. Bagsit 46.25

Christopher Ulboc retains Steeple Chase title

June 13, 2015

Christopher Ulboc Jr., 25 continued the Philippines rich tradition of Steeple Chase champions defending his title at the 2015 SEA Games. Consequently Ulboc followed in the footsteps of Begeo (6) and Rene Herrera (5) and Buenavista (1) Former SEA Games champions with numbers of medals in brackets.

While it was Purwanto of Indonesia who led until the last 220 meters. Most noteworthy was that Purwanto had given Ulboc a neck to neck battle in the last 100m of the Singapore Open at the end of March. Then Ulboc narrowly winning this race.

At SEA Games 220m Tien San Pham of Vietnam surged with Ulboc pursuing and Purwanto fading out of the picture not giving chase. Hence Pham still led over the final water jump with Ulboc two strides behind. While with 100m to go Pham was still a stride and a half ahead. So Ulboc kicked again before the final barrier throwing himself over it and lunging forward. Consequently with 50m to go Ulboc knew he had won checking several times by turning his head back to look at Pham and raising his arms in the air continuously.

While Ulboc time of 8:59.07 was slightly outside his 8:56 clocking in Singapore. While Pham took Silver in a new personal best of 8:59.90. And Purwanto was third in 9:06.41. Furthermore Herrera faded back to 11th of 12 runners never really in the medal hunt during this race.

Cray adds second Golds, Breaks SEA Record and defends 400 Hurdles title

June 11, 2015

Dubbed the Usain Bolt of South East Asia,

Eric Shauwn Cray of the Philippines set several mile stones at the Sports Hub Stadium on a packed Wednesday Evening. The 26 year old Cray fresh from winning the century dash the day before was up to defending his SEA title he won in Myanmar two years ago.

The organizers decided to fill all nine lanes in a straight final with Cray drawn in lane 4, outside him was Quach Cong Lich of Vietnam (in yellow) a runner new to this event with a PB of 46.99 in the 400 plain. Lich led Cray the whole way until the last 100m. The defending champion put his foot down on the pedal and was fairly even with Lich until clearing the last hurdle, then Cray used his superior finishing speed to comfortably win in a new Games Record of 49.40. Cray passed the old mark set 20 years ago bu Chanon Keanchan of Thailand which is 49.76. Cray who ran 49.12 at the Cayman Island Invitational at Georgetown last month was able to qualify for the Olympic Games. 49.40 was his second best career performance. Cray is currently ranked ninth on the world rankings.

Quach Cong Lich was second in a big PB of 50.29 a relative newcomer to this event. Last years Silver medalist Andrian of Indonesia was reduced to a Bronze despite running a PB of 51.36. 2011 Champion Xuan Dao of Vietnam was fourth. Five runners broke 52 seconds, compared to three last SEA Games indicating a stronger shift in depth in this event.

The other Filipino in this race Junrey Bano the PNG and National Champion finished sixth.

Cray also became the First Filipino in 400 Hurdles to go back to back with wins in 2013,2015. The Philippines won gold in 1981 Grafilo, 1983 Unso, 1985 Arnillo

2015 SEA Games Iron man Cid Settles for Silver in Decathlon

Cid, Van Hue, Ubas

2013 SEA Games Champion Jesson Ramil Cid was outwitted by a superior athlete in the Men’s Decathlon and lost his title exchanging it for the silver medal. Van Hue Nguyen of Vietnam, the 2011 SEA Games silver medalist, who has a personal best of 7569, took the SEA Games title with 7232 points. Van Huyen no height-ed on a medal at the 2013 SEA Games which cost him the gold. Van Hue 59.58m Javelin and 4.80m Pole Vault gave Cid such a big lead he needed to beat Van Hue by 32 seconds or 200m in the 1500m to retain his SEA title.

Cid was not able to and ended up with 7065 points just four points away from his National Record set at the 2014 PNG. 21 year old Janry Ubas of the Philippines took the bronze with 6796 points. Cid was a graduate of Far Eastern University in Manila, where Ubas is currently studying.

Considering his ongoing knee issues it was good that Cid was able to finish the SEA Games with a score near his personal best.

Zakaria Malik of Indonesia the SEA Silver medalist from 2013 was fourth with 6577 points.

Cray milestone first Filipino win 100 SEA Games

Jun 10, 2015

26-year-old Eric Cray, became the First Filipino win the 100m Dash since the Philippines joined the SEA Games in 1975. Over the years sprinters from the Philippines came and failed to even land in the top three. Cray ended this drought with a convincing win in the Men’s 100m Dash at the 2015 SEA Games in Singapore.

Cray had already lowered Ralph Soguilon National Record to 10.33 at the Bob Cat Classic in Texas. In the heats of 100 Cray was impressive in 10.28 shutting down the last 15 meters, blowing away the SEA Games Defending Champion Jirapong Meenapra of Thailand, and 2013 silver medalist Iswandi of Indonesia who clocked respectable times of 10.42 and 10.43.

It was a fast final with Cray holding off his pursuers in another new Philippine Record of 10.25 (0.0). Just outside the SEA Games Record of Surya Agung Wibowo set in 2009 of 10.17, and the Olympic qualification of 10.16. Yaspi Bobby took silver in 10.42, while Iswandi the 2013 Silver medalist was relegated to a bronze also with 10.42. Local Singaporean Calvin Kang was fourth in a new PB of 10.47. With defending champion Jirapong Meenapra time of 10.48 the same time which won last SEA Games only good enough for fifth place.

2015 SEA Games Throw Back: Caleb Stuart Breaks SEA Games Record in Hammer Throw (video)

June 10, 2015

Three Athletes who were discovered via pinoyathletics.info or through Philippines Sports Commission and recommended to PATAFA proved worth the investment. The Fil-Heritage program trio delivered three gold medals for the Philippines. Caleb Stuart, Eric Cray and Kayla Richardson delivered golds for the country.

Pinoyathletics is extremely proud of these three athletes and what they have been able to achieve.

It was inevitable Caleb Stuart was the man to beat at SEA Games having thrown a 68.66m leading up to the SEA Games and a 67.99m more recently. Stuart made his mission known when he threw a games record of 65.63m. Surpassing the 62.29m Record of Tantipong Phetchaiya set in the last SEA Games. This means Stuart now has the SEA Games Record to go with his South East Asian Record.

“I want to be world class, I’m not quite there yet” said Stuart.

2011, 2013 SEA Games Champion Tantipong Phetchaiya of Thailand was second in 62.12m. Jackie Siew Wong of Malaysia took bronze with 61.18m. 34-year-old Arniel Ferrera of the Philippines who was set for bronze until the last throw of Siew was fourth in 60.08m. Arniel has four SEA Games titles 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009. Caleb regained the SEA Games title for the Philippines which we last won eight years [/embed]ago.

“This is the first SEA Games in which 60m wont win a medal” said the Veteran thrower. who battled a back injury to claw back to a seasons best.

Tabby takes the Silver for the Philippines in the Women’s Marathon

Jun 8, 2015

After a roller coast two years Mary Joy Tabal, 26 proved she deserved her place in the SEA Games lineup by taking the silver in the women’s Marathon. Tabal who is trained by Triathlete Philip John Duenas of Cebu a local coach who is not on the national coaching staff of PATAFA. In wet slippery miserable conditions, Tabal timed 3:04.39 (well outside her personal best of 2:48.00 set in the 2013 December Milo Marathon Finals in Manila. Tabal was not happy with her time. The last time the Philippines won a medal in the SEA Games was back in 2009 when Jhoann Banayag became the SEA Games Champion.

The win went to Thailand, but surprisingly it was not race favorite and Olympic qualifier Thai-American Jane Vongvorachoti, who according to sources was forced to pull out due to leg pains. 35-year-old Natthaya Thanaronawwat was the victor in a time of 3:03.25. Outside her best of 2:50.02.

Since the Women’s Marathon was introduced at the 1983 SEA Games when it was won in 3:02.46. The winning time in 2015 Singapore is the slowest winning time in SEA Games History.

The bronze went to Thi Thanh Hoang, 21 in 3:07.14. Last time the Bronze was 2:48.00. This will make it easier for the Philippines to qualify two women in this event in 2017 as 3:07.14 will serve as the new Bronze standard, compared to the 2015 Standard which was 2:49.01 from the last SEA Games.

SEA Games 2013 Silver Medalist Myint Myint Aye now 38 years old ended up fifth.

Credits: Photos by National Coach Sean Guevarra & Official Results from SEA Games Official Website.

SEA Games Marathon Soh Rui Yong triumphs in the pouring rain, no medals for Philippines

Jun 7, 2015

The SEA Games Mens Marathon was won in 2:34.56 the slowest SEA Games time since 1971 (2.40.02) . But all that mattered for Soh Rui Yong of Singpore was the win. Despite having to battle through very miserable rainy conditions which effected all the runners by at least 10 minutes each (it was expected to be hot and humid) and fighting fierce head winds Rui Yong seemed like he had enough energy to run another Marathon after he crossed the line. He pumped his fist in the air and then grabbed a Singaporean flag and did a lap high fiving a crowd of a couple hundred that had come to cheer on there country man.

In his first SEA Games, Soh Rui Yong succeeded his country man Mok Ying Ren (also the 2007 SEA Games Triathlon Champion) as Marathon Champion. Mok had to withdraw due to injuries leading up to the SEA Games.

I knew being there that this was going to be a slow Marathon as the clock read 2:29 and they had not even opened the gates yet for the athletes to come in. When they came in Boonthung Srisung of Thailand was slightly in front but at 450m Soh started to increase the tempo. Srisung stayed with him. But when Soh kicked again, Srisung had nothing left. Srisung a former SEA Games 5000, and 10000m champion took silver in 2:35.09. Nguyen Thanh Hoang took bronze in 2:37.10.

2007 SEA Games Champion Eduardo Buenavista was fifth in 2:39.26. And Milo Marathon Champion Rafael Poliquit collapsed from exhaustion during the race and was rushed to the hospital. He was thankfully discharged later today.

Something we should not take lightly and be very serious about looking at is the fact we have not failed to win a SEA Games medal in the Men’s Marathon since 1999, and that year the Marathon was not held at SEA Games.

South East Asian Games 2015

Jun 5, 2015

Marathon Selection Methodology: Bertek and Master Endurance

Jun 4, 2015

The Philippines had four strong candidates for the Marathon selection. 2009 SEA Games Champion and Philippine Record Holder, Eduardo Buenavista who missed out on the 2013 SEA Games selections for not having ran the standard, in the Milo Marathon competition around the same time in Manila clocked 2:27:11 to beat the winning time of SEA Games Champion Mok Ring Yen 2:28.36. Buenavista in Hong Kong would go onto really secure his place in the team when he dished out a time of 2:24:11 in Hong Kong. This would ensure the now 37 year old Buenavista would have the chance to try and regain the SEA Games title he last won six years ago.

The second spot in the selection process was really more difficult, Eric Panique who was a bronze medalist with 2:30:30 at the 2013 SEA Games, but was not able to improve his performance leading up to the SEA Games. Irinio Raquin who had ran 2:31:15 at the 2014 Milo Eliminations.

Panique looked secure for the second spot until things became more complicated when a distance runner who moved upto the Marathon won the 2014 Milo Finals in December. Rafael ‘Master Endurance’ Poliquit the 2013 PNG Champion in the 5000 and 10000m who was previously coached by master coach Rosito Andaya but had since moved to 2001 SEA Games Champion and National Coach Roy Vence.

Master Enudrance

At the Milo Marathon Poliquit won in a best time of 2:32:29, from Buenavista, Raquin and Panique. The choice was now between Panique the Bronze medalist and ‘The Master’ Poliquit. The coaches at first voted for Panique but at a later coaches meeting chose ‘The Master’ due to the fact he was showing better shape despite not hitting the 2:30.30 bronze medal standard.

The Philippines for its part has had alot of Marathon Champions in Men’s De La Torre (1981), Suizo (1989,1991), Vence (01) Ballester (03), Buenavista (07).

Now Buenavista and Poliquit both have a shot at joining this legacy. While Buenavista is a big chance to regain his gold looking at the standings Poliquit is likely to pace Buenavista but he is ranked 9th out of the 12 athletes so it will be tough to land a medal here.

Challengers

With SEA Champion Mok Ying Ren out due to injury, its his countryman Soh Rui Yong who still step up the Oregon based student will be defending the honor in front of his home crowd. His best time is 2:26.01 the second fastest in the field after Bertek ‘Buenavista’.

A duo of very fast Vietnamese who were in a local race in Vietnam were 4 men dipped under 2h30 will represent Vietnam Nguyen and Bui both have best times of 2:26. Ofcourse former SEA Games 5000 and 10000m champion Boonthung from Thailand and we cant forget 2013 SEA Games runner up Thaung Aye of Myanmar will also be very strong in this race.

2015 SEA Games Womens Marathon Preview

June 4, 2015

As the 2015 SEA Games Womens Marathon is the first event the Philippines will compete in for Athletics. During the 2015 SEA Games on June 7, i think its highly necessary a post game analysis be presented for this event.

Tabby following in the foot steps of the Great’s

As we only had one qualifier for the SEA Games no methodology is required. The only athlete to qualify for the 2015 SEA Games was Mary Joy Tabal. Whose time of 2:48.00, this mark was set at the December 2013 Milo Marathon Finals in Manila. It was a Milo Marathon record and broke the Milo Record. The qualifying time for SEA Games is 2:49.01.

As the Filipino sole entry Tabal came to a bit of controversy running a Marathon event in Los Angeles.Just a few months leading upto the SEA Games but was later reinstated in the team. Tabal has a best time this year is 2:51.55. The 25 year old Cebuano, is looking to follow in the foot steps of National Record Holder Cristabel Martes the 2001 and 2005 SEA Games Champion, and 2009 SEA Games Champion Jhoann Banayag.

Tabal who is coached by Triathlete Philip Duenas began off as a sprinter at South Western University in Cebu before moving up to the longer distances.

Vongvorachoti is the Favorite!

Now lets have a look at the other contenders. Jane Vongvorachoti goes in as the favorite in this event. The 31 year old who represented Thailand 10 years as a national football player. Jane spent the last few months acclimatizing in Thailand, she is based in New York. Jane time of 2:40.40 set the at Chicago Marathon last October. The only athlete in the field to have already hit the 2:43 standard of the Olympic Games. The last Thai to win the SEA Games gold in this event was Sunisa Sailoymen in 2007.

SEA Games Silver Medalist Myint Myint Aye of Myanmar who is now 38! years old is also back for the SEA Games with a SB of 2:50.23. Aye began off as a 400m runner and she got older gradually moved upto the longer events and eventually the Marathon.

2013 SEA Games Gold Medalist Pham Thi Binh is not entered in this event. Instead she is replaced by the young duo of Thi Hanh Hoang, and Thi Thuy Lam. While they only have times of 2:52.09 and 2:52.23 they are newcomers to this event at 21 and 17 years of age and could pull a surprise.

Natthaya Thanaronnawat of Thailand has put down a time of 2:50.02 according to the SEA Games website but the accuracy and venerability of this performance is questionable.

The Forecast is Jane of Thailand should win this easy, also a very strong 34 minute 10k runner with a 1:15 Half Marathon time. Myint and Tabal are expected to battle it out for second and third.

SEA Games 2015 Women’s 100m Methodology start list and review Rev 1

Jun 1, 2015

SEA Games 2015 Womens 100m

All these articles are solely by Andrew Pirie, ATFS Statistician, and pinoyathletics editor. Also, members of the Press should seek permission to use these materials. As we have a copyright in place on items which are not general information. I will be in Singapore from June 5 to 15 covering the games.

SEA Games 2015 Womens 100m Dash

Methodology

Four female athletes surpassed the SEA Bronze medal standard of 2013 set at 11.91. While only the top two were to be selected. Also noteworthy is that none of these women participated at the Philippine National Open Championships in Laguna 2015 in March.

2014 PNG Champion Princess Joy Griffey (11.62) at the PNG and National Junior Record Holder Kayla Richardson (11.65) recorded the two fastest times.They were followed by Kyla Richardson (11.83w) who will participate in the relay. Also UAAP Record Holder Jenny Rosales (11.90), who is not able to participate in SEA Games, due to on the job training.

Start list and Review

While Malaysia’s Zulkifili goes in as slight event favorite with her recent run of 11.3ht (-2.0) at the Ipoh, Perak Championships May 23 (source: Adriansprints.com). This performance was timed by Malaysia’s High Performance Director, Australian Robert Ballard. Hence the 11.3 is around 11.60-11.70 et at worst. Then take away 2 meters of wind and its easily around an 11.50et performance in neutral conditions. Yet take into account Singapore’s Sports Hub Stadium for the SEA Games has a closing roof. While the 22 year old Zulkifili came into some good shape claiming Silver at the ASEAN Uni Games in Palembang; she was narrowly behind the now retired 4x SEA Games Champion Vu Thi Huong of Vietnam 11.61 to 11.62. While Malaysia last won the SEA Games in this event 18 years ago with Govindasamy Shanti who holds the Malaysian National Record at 11.50 set 22 years ago. In conclusion Zulkifili recent times indicate she is capable of coming near to breaking this mark.

(source http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malaysian_records_in_athletics).

Zulkifili is followed by a tandem of US Based Filipinos. Philippines Princess Joy Griffey who has the fastest legit PB in the field with a time of 11.58 set in 2009. While Griffey is the oldest entry in the field at 28. Ironically Griffey is playing at her first SEA Games, abeit through no fault of her own. The second fastest women the Philippines had produced Griffey is the 2014 National Games Champion and clocked 11.62 in 2014, this year her best time is 11.71 at Mt Sac Relays. Hence the Philippines last won the 100m Dash at the SEA Games 20 years ago with Elma Muros.

While things are looking good for the Philippines namely due to the Fil-Heritage Program, initiated in early 2013. Another good find by Pinoyathletics and the PSC is Kayla Richardson whose recent timing in the last weeks leading to the SEA Games was 11.65 a new Philippine Record. The tallest at 5’9 and the youngest of the entries in the 100m Dash.

While Kayla has a chance to become the youngest female to win the 100m Dash at SEA Games.

And of course lets not forget the favorite for most of the qualifying period 2013 SEA Bronze medalist Tassaporn Wanakit. Whose victors Vu (05, 07, 09, 13 SEA Champion) and Klomdee (Thailand, 03 SEA Champion) have both hung up there spikes. Tassaporn who had extensive training in Germany was able to improve her best time last year to 11.62, and recently won the Taipei Open in 11.74.

Looking at the start-lists these four appear to be the ones who will battle for the Gold, Silver and Bronze. The other four finalists in the two heats of six will probably come from #4-10 on this list.

SEA Games 2015: Sprints Womens 200m Dash Start list and Review

Jun 1, 2015

All these articles are solely by Andrew Pirie, ATFS Statistician, and pinoyathletics editor. Members of the Press should seek permission to use these materials as we have a copyright in place on items which are not general information. I will be in Singapore from June 5 to 15 covering the games.

Womens 200m Dash

No Methodology required for selection for Philippine Team in this event as only 2 qualifiers.

Start list and Review

The 200m is a 3 way dance for the Gold, Silver, Bronze. With Vu Thi Huong the SEA Games champion retired, when the dust settles a new SEA Games Womens 200m Champion will be crowned.

First the home ground girl the dashing Teenager Shanti Veronica Pereira. The 19 year old National Record Holder is one of the countries big hopes for the SEA Games. She has the fastest legit time in the finals. In 2013 made both sprint semi-finals in the world youth championships. She has however established herself as a much stronger 200m runner making the World Junior Semi-Finals in the half lap event, in a slightly wind aided 23.87 (+2.1).Her best time of 23.99 -0.3 was last year at the Taipei Open. This year she clocked 24.00 -0.4 at the Singapore Open and 24.04 for silver at the Taipei Open. If Shanti can pull off a win her it will be historic as Singapore has not won this event since they joined in 1959. Shanti finished fourth at the 2013 SEA Games in Naypyidaw.

However Shanti despite having the home crowd advantage is likely to be well challenged by strongly a tandem of Filipina Sprinters. At the top of the ranking list on legit times is Princess Joy Griffey, 28 the oldest in the field with a best time of 23.93 from last year. Griffey however has alot of work to do as her best time for this year is 24.56 (0.9).

In the best form of the three right now is another teenager 17 year old Kayla Richardson whose recent wind-aided run of 23.45 (+3.5), is the 2nd ever fastest time by a Filipina behind the National Record of Lydia De Vega (23.35). Richardson’s time of 23.45 +3.5 equates to around a 23.60 to 23.80 with 2.0 to 0.0 wind conditions putting her in the best shape right now.

Also note De Vega at 17 years of age won her first SEA Games title in the 200m Dash in the 1981 Manila edition with a time of 23.54 which still stands as the Philippine Junior Record. The first of four titles in this event 83, 87, 93. The last woman to win a medal in this event for the Philippines was Muros in 95.

Based on recent form #4-7 should make up the other finalists with one of #8-10 grabbing the last spot for the final. Nguyen Thi Oanh the only returning medalist from 2013 who took the bronze in 24.02 has a best time of 24.67, but could pull a surprise as she has mainly been training for the 400m.

Recommendations Per Event

South East Asian Games 2015

Mens
100m
Eric Cray (10.52) ??
Brandon Thomas (10.72)
200m
Archand Bagsit (21.72)
400m
Archand Bagsit (46.88)
Edgardo Alejan Jr. (47.07)
800m
Mervin Guarte (1.51.51)
Wenlie Maulas (1.51.91)
1500m
Mervin Guarte (3.54.87)
Roldan Verano (3.55.3)
3000m Steeples
Christopher Ulboc Jr. (9.01.69)
Rene Herrera (9.11.91)
Marathon
Eduardo Buenavista (2.24.11)
???
110 Hurdles
Clinton Kingsley Bautista (14.22)
Patrick Unso (14.28)
400 Hurdles
Eric Cray (50.00)
Junrey Bano (52.11)
4×100
Eric Cray (10.52)
Brandon Thomas (10.72)
Clinton Kingsley Bautista (10.80)
Anfernee Lopena (10.81) or Udtohan (10.93/21.86)
Archand Bagsit ??
4×400
Bagsit (46.88)
Alejan (47.07)
Bigyan (47.43)
Caido (47.62)
Cid (48.05)
Cray (48.28 indoors)
Long Jump
Henry Dagmil (7.80) ?
Donovant Arriola (7.64)
Julian Reem Fuentes (7.55) ?
High Jump
Tyler Ruiz (2.13)
Pole Vault
Ernest John Obiena (5.21)
Shotput
Caleb Stuart (17.88)
Discus
Caleb Stuart (49.96)
Hammer
Caleb Stuart (68.66)
Arniel Ferrera (61.18)
Decathlon
Jesson Ramil Cid (7069)
Janry Ubas (6627)

Womens
100m
Princess Joy Griffey (11.62)

Kayla Richardson (11.78)
200m
Princess Joy Griffey (23.93)
Kayla Richardson (24.03)
400m
Zion Corrales-Nelson (54.18)
10000m
Mary Grace Delos Santos (37.50)
Marathon
Mary Joy Tabal (2:51)
Long Jump
Marestella Torres (6.47)
Katherine Santos (6.25)
Pole Vault
Riezel Buenaventura (3.80)
Javelin
Rosie Villarito (49.13)
Evalyn Palabrica (48.25)
Heptathlon
Narscisca Atienza (5241)
4X100 Relay
Princess Joy Griffey (11.62)
Kayla Richardson (11.78)
Katherine Santos (11.99)
Zion Corrales-Nelson (12.02)
Kyla Richardson (12.09)

Final List of SEA Games 2015 Athletes in Athletics

1. 1. Eric Cray
   2. Archand Bagsit
   3. Jesson Cid
   4. Henry Dagmil
   5. Christopher Ulboc
   6. Mervin Guarte
   7. Arniel Ferrera
   8. Narcisca Atienza
   9. Edgardo Alejan
   10. Eric Panique
   11. Riezel Buenaventura
   12. Johan Caido
   13. Ryan Bigyan
   14. Caleb Stuart
   15. Roldan Verano*
   16. Eduardo Buenavista
   17. Ernest Obiena
   18. Princess Joy Griffey
   19. Kayla Richardson
   20. Janry Ubas
   21. Rosie Villarito
   22. Tyler Ruiz
   23. Katherine Khay Santos
   24. Bryan Mercado
   25. Clinton Kingsley Bautista
   26. Patrick Unso
   27. Evalyn Palabrica
   28. Mark Harry Diones
   29. Brandon Thomas
   30. Kyla Richardson
   31. Wenlie Maulas
   32. Rene Herrera
   33. Junrey Bano
   34. Donovant Arriola
   35. Jessica Lyn Barnard*
   36. Kyla Richardson*

Click Here for Live Streaming of the SEA Games 2015

Jul 6, 2015

Catch Live Streaming and highlights of the SEA Games 2015 in Singapore, here from the Official Youtube Website, from the comfort of your own living room. Also all your favorite Sports.

Click Here for Live Streaming
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2015 SEA Games Lineup in Track and Field

May 23, 2015

Article by Andrew Pirie ATFS Statistician and Pinoyathletics.info editor

While initially 34 athletes were selected for the SEA Games using ‘The Transparent Scaled System’.

Hence data from pinoyathletics.info was provided to aide with the selection process. Also a further two athletes were added on appeal to the taskforce. While 34 was a generous raise by the POC Taskforce from the 24 slots given to athletics in 2013. Also Its becoming evident there is a lot of growth in the sport of athletics in terms of medal potential.

Hence an analytical write up and the rest of the selection methodologies will follow.

The Selection was as follows

1. Athletes who had exceeded the Gold, Silver and Bronze standards in the December 2013 to March 2015 period

2. In the results of more than 2 athletes. Its 2 per event exceeding the standard methodology is explained in separate articles.

3. The remaining slots went to the athletes who were closest to the bronze medal standard based on IAAF Points difference from 2013 Bronze and performance in the December 2013 to March 2015 qualifying Period. Until all the remaining slots were all taken.

Due to unavailability as his NCAA Finals commitment in the United States over lapped with the SEA Games as it was on at the same time Bryan Mercado (100,200,4×100) who was originally chosen withdrew and his spot was given to the next most qualified athlete Mark Harry Diones (Triple Jump)

All 5 2013 Defending Champions Qualified

1. Eric Cray 100, 400 Hurdles, Relays

2. Henry Dagmil LJ, 4×100

3. Archand Bagsit 400, 4×400

4. Christopher Ulboc 3K Steeples

5. Jesson Cid Decathlon, 4×400

10 of the 14 Priority athletes qualified including those mentioned above qualified in the qualifying period

6. Edgardo Alejan 400, 4×400

7. Arniel Ferrera HT

8. Nars Atienza Heptathlon

9. Mervin Guarte 800, 1500

10. Riezel Buenaventura PV

The Following Athletes hit the Bronze standard or above but had no medal last SEA Games

11. Eduardo Buenavista Marathon (Gold St)

12. Ernest Obiena PV (Gold St)

13. Marestella Torres LJ (Gold St)

14. Roldan Verano 1500 (Gold St)

15. Caleb Stuart SP, HT (Gold St)

16. Katherine Khay Santos LJ (Gold St), 4×100

17. Princess Joy Griffey 100, 200 (Silver St), 4×100

18. Kayla Richardson 100, 200 (Silver St), 4×100

19. Tyler Ruiz HJ (Bronze st)

20. Donovant Ariola (Bronze st)

21. Janry Ubas (Bronze st)

22. Mary Joy Tabal (Marathon) (Bronze st)

23. Rosie Villarito (Javelin) (Bronze st)

24. Ryan Bigyan 4×400 member (bronze)

25. Joan Caido 4×400 member (bronze)

Closest to bronze based on IAAF Pts (not in order)

26. Junrey Bano

27. Rafael Poliquit

28. Evalyn Palabrica

29. Mary Grace Delos Santos 10k

30. Wenlie Maulas

31. Mark Harry Diones

32. Rene Herrera 3KS

33. Clinton Kingsley Bautista 110H, 4×100

34. Patrick Unso 110H, 4×100

Late Qualification

35. Jessica Lyn Barnard 3KS, 1500 (Priority athlete, Bronze standard)

36. Kyla Richardson 4×100 (Bronze standard)

The Following athletes also hit the standard of bronze but were not able to join for reasons below

• Marco Vilog (800) (PRISAA Rules (Bronze)
• Sony Wagdos 1500 (PRISAA Rules) (Bronze)
• Rudyfer Hernandez 1500 (more than 2 qualified) (Bronze)
• Jenny Rose Rosales 100 (work commitments 4×100, more than 2 qualified individual) (Bronze)
• Julian Fuentes (more than 2 qualified) (Bronze)
• Benigno Marayag (more than 2 qualified) (Bronze)

2015 SEA Games Schedule Athletics

2015 SEA Games Selection Methodology Mens 800m -1500m

Apr 15, 2015

ANDREW PIRIE - ATFS Statistician -editor for pinoyathletics.info

The 2013 SEA Games in Nyapitdaw saw Malaysian Mohd Riduan Jironi finally win the SEA Games gold he had been chasing for so many years in 1:50.98, Mervin Guarte was second in 1:51.51 and Duong Van Thai of Vietnam the 2011 SEA Games Champion settled for Bronze in 1:51.51. It was an epic race with Van Thai sitting back and then kicking with 250m to go. Guarte went with him.

But it was the patience of the battle hardened Jironi who let out a devastating deadly double kick the last 120m. Pulling away from Guarte and Van Thai to win the 2013 SEA Games. Van Thai faded in the final meters of the race allowing Guarte to nip him for the silver.

There was no qualifiers at the National Games, Weekly Relays and athletes were even further off target at the UAAP and NCAA. The closest athlete to the standard besides Guarte during the time period who had ran 1:52.26 at the National Games was Elbren Neri who had ran 1:52.60 to bag second at the ASEAN University Games in December of 2014. It looked like no one else was going to land the mark.

Vilog has an epic qualifying mark, but school rules prevent him from joining SEA Games

With the last qualifying meet the National Open in Laguna March 19-22 what unfolded left alot to the imagination. Mervin Guarte who had already presented a letter to the PATAFA would not be competing at the national open as he was comfortable that two runners would not break the SEA Games standard of 1:51.62 instead he decided to focus on the 1500m.

It was last years Bronze medalist Marco Vilog of Phil Airforce who set a formidable 51.6 first lap. In retrospect (John Lozada had ran 51.9 when he went onto set the Philippine Record of 1:47.77 in the Asian Grand Prix back in 2003). The gutsy first lap saw Vilog well ahead of the rest of the field. With Vilog straining to hold the pace his teammate Wenlie ‘The Fishman’ Maulas a perennial silver medalist at the National Champion began to make his move with 150m to go trying to chase down Vilog. Vilog held on with Fishman closing him down very quickly. Kesavan of Malaysia was third.

Vilog was happy for the win, and Maulas had to be content with another silver medal for his growing collection of silver medals at national championships. However, Vilog thought he had maybe ran 1:52 something but was overjoyed to hear he had just ran 1:51.60 .02 seconds below the SEA Games qualification. With Wenlie Maulas also going home with some satisfaction from a new personal best time of 1:51.91.

The excitement soon became an issue when it was ruled Vilog still has another year in the PRISAA. And PRISAA rules would not allow him to play at the SEA Games as he may lose his scholarship. Also he had no accreditation and no Filipino passport so late in the selection process.

With this in mine the Fishman luck changed as he was selected to join Mervin Guarte in the SEA Games 800m due to the ineligibility of Vilog. It would be the first time 26 year old Wenlie would qualify for the SEA Games having given many years of loyal service to athletics as a multiple UAAP Champion in his younger years.

Later on the Fishman went onto end his streak of endless silver medals by winning the Singapore national title the following week.

SEA Games 2015: Selection Methodology Men’s 1500m

ANDREW PIRIE - ATFS Statistician - editor for pinoyathletics.info

The 2013 SEA Games in Nyapitdaw saw a very low qualifying standard compared to previous standards with the Gold and silver being tied at 3:58.02 and bronze at 3:58.37, surprisingly the Filipino entry in this event National and National Junior Record Holder who finished with silver in this event in 2011 in Palembang SEA Games wound up fourth in 3:58.43.

It was going to be a relatively easy event to qualify in.

With the qualifying period for the SEA Games December 2013 to March 2015, as the Philippines had no medalists there were no proxy qualifiers.

The first set of qualifiers came at the 2014 National Games in May with Mervin Guarte winning in 3:55.10, ahead of Wenlie Maulas who ran a new PB of 3:58.30 the duo hitting the gold and the bronze standards.

Weekly Relays Verano breaks through and brings Rudyfer with him

When we came around to the Weekly relays which like the National Games were held in Pasig and ran from July to October it was an interesting development. With Maulas and Guarte opting not to participate in the 1500m here. It was Roldan Verano of PLDT who was third in the National Open in 3:59.74 who would improve his time first to 3:58 and then eventually register 3:55.3, 3:55.4 and 3:55.8 (usually 3 stop watches used) (gold standard) showing great improvement and consistency throughout the weekly relays. His training partner and former school mate Rudyfer Hernandez of JRU took advantage of the fast pace Verano set and also clocked 3:57.8 (bronze standard).

National Open Guarte is Dominant

There were no more qualifiers during the UAAP and NCAA or Uni Games. Then at the national open in March the final qualification meet there was an interesting set of results. Mervin Guarte won in 3:54.87, taking his fifth national title and securing his qualifying spot for one of the two slots.

The interesting development was the PRISAA Champion Sony Wagdos who was running for ‘Team Titus’ here and reduced his PB from 3:58.2 to 3:55.75.Wagdos had the race of his life latching onto Guarte who kicked hard away from the rest of the field and chasing him all the way to the line.

Wagdos has a passport as he won a gold medal for the Philippines in the BIMPA Games however he had not been accredited by the association as he was not a strong contender prior to the deadline of accreditation which was several months ago. He is also at University of Mindanao a PRISAA school which does not allow National athletes to participate in the PRISAA meets.

Guarte and Wagdos were the only two to hit the standard during the national open. Third was Rudyfer in 3:58.49 and Maulas clocked in at 4:01, Verano who struggled with cramps was a very distant 4:05.

The Decision for the second spot

It was very obvious the first spot was to goto Guarte the Fastest time during the qualification period and PNG and National Open Champion. The second slot would obviously gone to Wagdos had been accredited and risk his PRISAA scholarship. Therefore as nobody else at the open hit the qualifying mark the performances within the qualifying period were now examined. It was Roldan Verano who had ran 3:55 3x who had the second fastest qualifying time and run under the gold standard three times showing consistency. Verano was advised he must be more frequent in training on condition he would line up for SEA Games to avoid a relapse of his poor race at the national open.

SEA Games 2015 Archives: Four Relay Teams Proposed

Mulling through my data this is what i found this article on proposal of four relay teams for SEA Games. This article was never published due to the high volume of articles I had queued at the time. Its interesting to note if the Philippines will ever be able to field four relay teams at SEA Games level. Knowing that crucial athletes at most times pull out at the last minute. I am an ideas man and this is one idea that didnt materialize although we did end up with a Womens 4×100 and Mens 4×400 which placed 6th (45.64 3rd fastest all time) and the mens got bronze with the 2nd fastest of all time in a 3.06.

Simple Plans work Four Relay Teams Proposed

I want to begin by stating life is full of complications so it gives piece of mind knowing its the simple plans that work.

My first review analysis of the 2015 SEA Games team in Athletics will be about the benefits of fielding four relay teams at the SEA Games. After briefly discussing it vocally with the task-force and several national coaches its clear there is a lot of strong support so I have decided to put this simple plan into writing.

I am willing to state in writing that if we build now all four our relay teams we can land a medal in each relay. I can only say for certain the 4×4 mens will get a gold as we face stiff opposition from better prepared more established teams such as Vietnam and Thailand.

Furthremore as per PATAFA head coach Dario De Rosas “If we don’t send teams now when will it be ?” said the veteran coach who strongly supported the initiative. The benefits of strong relay teams now is it is going to inspire a new generation of sprinters some who are probably bot even born at this time of writing.

Just like the ‘Invitational A’ concept i came up with at the Weekly Relays no cost just a ‘simple plain plan’ that worked getting the best sprinters against each other week in week and week out and also inspiring young athletes who one day hoped to be in the Inivtational A.

If lined up a new generation of sprinters who are looking to make there debut at the SEA Games will be in action. Anyway this article will explore the individuals, composition and statistical side of our teams versus countries. Please note the task-force prefers if each member is in an individual event also. It is very clear the Fil-Heritage program has helped complete the local lineups with athletes featured in all four relays.

The Mens 4×400 relay

Bagsit and Alejan 1-2 SEA Games really beef up the relay teams chances in Singapore.

With the well of Filipino quarter milers in no way short of going dry we have the best two sprinters for both 2013, 2014 who further backed this statistic by getting Gold and Silver last SEA Games. Bagsit (46.88) and Alejan (46.95).

Cray waving the flag.

Very eager to boost the strength of the team is Eric Cray the SEA Games 400 Hurdles champion; Asian Championship and Asian Games Finalist. Cray’s PB of 50.00 (give him at least a 47.5 or faster time). The trio have all comfortably hit the criteria required for there respective individual events. Bagsit and Alejan (400 47.71 Standard) and Cray (400 51.79 standard).

Its a fierce fight with 2013 4×400 members of the Gold medal team Julius Nierras, 36 and 2013 UAAP Champion Isidro Del Prado Jr. facing a stiff challenge at the national open from several hungry young men including PRISAA Champion Johan Caido, PNG Silver medalist Ryan Bigyan and Jumper Harry Diones who have all been on the hunt this season during the PSC-PATAFA Weekly Relay serie.

However if we put together Bagsit, Cray and Alejan that’s good for a tleast 46 each each and surely another 47 runner from the list of names mentioned above running 47 gives the team a solid time of 3:05. Below the National Record of 3:06.58, and a whopping 4! seconds faster than the 3:09 winning time in the 2013 SEA Games or even the 3:08 best time in Thailand (Del Prado, Alejan, Nierras, Bagsit).

No other SEA Games Nation has the luxury of even one 46 second runner, while we are blessed with two possibly three.

As a majority with 2/4 athletes coach Lerma holds on as coach.

Womens 4×400 Relay

Depending on the availability of Jenny Rose Rosales who is busy with OJT. we have quite a strong chance in the Womens 4x400m a team we have not fielded since 2005 and have not medalled in at least 20 years. Besides Princess Joy its a relatively young team which has almost a decade of SEA Games in store for them.

Looking at the team Princess Joy, 28 is already entered in the 100, 200, 4×100 she has a PB of 55.96 from some years back but has split 53.5 in relays and mainly ran 4×400 at College. With her 200 PB to 23.93 as opposed to 24.5 at 55.96 she could easily split a 54 second run.

Zion Corrales-Nelson

Three athletes who are all below 21 would all help strengthen the team. Leading the charge is 16 year old Jamaican-Filipino Zion Corrales Nelson from Canada who is the youngest and the fastest in the team holding both National and National Junior records in this event with a time of 54.18.

Jenny Rosales rounds the first curve well ahead of team mate Neslee Angco.

Jenny Rose Rosales the UAAP Record Holder at 54.45, would seriously beef up the team but will need to balance it with education commitments.

While all four athletes are making there SEA Games, completing the lineup would be Neslee Angco who has never competed overseas her best time is 56.52. The UAAP Silver medalist is the training partner and school mate at University of the East with Jenny Rosales and coached by Elma Muros and George Posadas.

So Looking at the relay in hind sight 3 x 54 and a 56 equates to 3:38. Which is below the 3:42 bronze medal of Myanmar in 2013 and also 2 seconds faster than the National Record of 3:40 set by De Vega, Muros, Bulutucan and Rhodas Sinoro.

The Vietnamese will be hard to beat with 3 x 52 and a 53 which gives them a combined time of 3:29 well below the SEA Games record. There prime athlete is QUACH who has a junior last year took silver in 52.06 at the Asian Games.

Then The Thais have a 53 and 3 x 54 which gives them a combinded team of 3:35 they are led by Trewadee the SEA Games 400m Champion in 2013.

Mens 4×100 Relay

The Philippines also has its best chance in recent years with several new sprinters. Led by Fil-Heritage athletes Eric Shauwn Cray of Texas (10.52, 10.47w PB), and Bryan Mercado of California (10.56 PB). The duo is joined by SEA Games three time long jump champion Henry Dagmil, and possibly Brandon Thomas (10.59 PB), Daniel Noval (10.65 PB), and Anfernee Lopena (10.73 PB).

While Cray, Mercado and Dagmil are comfortably qualified in individual events the other three will need to knuckle down and bring there best times down. Lopena, Thomas and Noval will go head to head at the national open.

SEA Games 2015: Selection Methodology Women’s 4×100

Apr 4, 2015

ANDREW PIRIE - ATFS STATISTICIAN editor for pinoyathletics.info

The PATAFA is still finalizing whether a women’s 4×100 will be included in the SEA Games. I will list reasons for including one and the methodology used in selecting the team. I am using pieces from an article that was in the pipeline and never published in this write up with updates. Please note to news media if you use any of this article to quote pinoyathletics.info in your write up.

Womens 4×100 Relay

Is the next most sure relay with five members. Two of the women have happily helped themselves to qualifying standards in the 100, 200 events.

28 year old Princess Joy Griffey (our #2 fastest women of all time and National Junior Record Holder in 100), and 17 year old World Junior representative Kayla Richardson.

Princess Joy Griffey

Griffey (11.62, 2014), Richardson (11.78, 2014), They were both ranked in top 10 in the SEA Rankings last year 100, 200. With Griffey ranked third behind Vu (Vietnam) 11.59 and Tassaporn Wanakit (Thailand). Griffey won the 100,200 at the 2014 National Games and opened 2015 with 11.92 and then 11.88.

Griffey with the best 200 PB 23.93 is an experienced relay runner having gone through the US NCAA system is the best choice for the second runner. Its the longest leg 105m+ and requires two hand offs that only an experience runner can get right.

Khay Santos

Long jumper Khay Santos (although PB 12.17, 2012 had a big break through recently with 6.95 for 55m = 7.60 = 11.85-11.95). Santos played a very effective role as first runner at the Thai Open as she beat the Thai to the first change passing it to Princess Joy. Khay then followed this up with a windy 11.97 in Los Angeles and then a PB of 11.99 to win the National Open in 2015.

Kayla Richardson

The promising 17 year old, would be ideal for the third or fourth leg of the relay. As a familiar passing changing with her sister Kyla would be of benefit to the team. Kayla has a PB of 11.78,just .03 seconds away from the junior record of Princess Joy Griffey.

She has some international experience placing 5th at the Asian Youth Champs and also becoming the first athlete ever to hit the qualifying standard for the prestigious World Junior Champs which were held in Oregon last year.

The natural heir to Griffey in the sprints the 5’9 teenager may show great promise in the years to come. Opened with 12.04 and also ran a new PB of 56.82 in the 400 showing her versatility range as a sprinter.

Kyla Richardson comes in as 4th runner in the team

Due to several withdrawals which will be mentioned later. Kyla Richardson, the twin sister of Kayla who had been ranked not in the top five last year has made her way into the lineup for the womens 4×100.

Unlike Griffey (100,200), Kath (Long Jump) and Kayla (100,200).Kyla would only be participating in the relays at SEA Games. Kyla has a PB of 11.93 from 2013, and is the fasetst 14 year old of all time in 2012 with 12.00.

Kyla finished 6th in the Asian Youth Champs, but then had to fight hamstring issues in 2014. In 2015 she came back with an opening time of 12.09 and then 12.03 2 weeks later.

Nelson and Rosales unavailable for SEA Games

Updates since last time the following sprinters are now unavailable. Zion Corrales-Nelson, 15 who was anticipated to join the SEA Games delegation, did not communicate intention to join the meet with the PATAFA. She has a best time of 12.02 in the 100 but is better known as the National 400 Record Holder.

Jenny Rose Rosales whose UAAP Record in the heats of 11.90, also went under the 11.91 (SEA Bronze 2013) standard. However as two entries per event. Rosales was not able to sign up for the SEA Games due to OJT commitments.

The Thai Open

When I brought the 4×100 to Thailand they landed bronze with Santos, Griffey, Loquinto and Rosales. The team then ran 46.61 off two days training. Jenny going two steps early before Hanelyn reached the check mark ended up costing the team about .3 seconds.

Now lets assume based on best times

Thai Open 4×100 2013

46.61 ( this was the best time by the Philippines since 2005)

(Name, best time, time ran at meet)

• Katherine Khay Santos (12.17 PB, 12.29)
• Princess Joy Griffey (11.58 PB, 12.10)
• Hanelyn Loquinto (12.22 PB, 12.49)
• Jenny Rosales (12.22 PB, 12.41) (*12.41 recent time didnt run individual at games)

Back in 2013 for SEA Games note

Griffey only trained a month before Thai Open, after 2 years out of the sport.

Kyla (11.93) and Kayla (11.79) were together around 1.2 seconds faster than Loquinto and Jenny at this point in time.

2015 Team

• Katherine Khay Santos (11.99 PB)
• Princess Joy Griffey (11.58 PB, 11.62)
• Kayla Richardson (11.78)
• Kyla Richardson (11.93)

12.17-11.99 = .18

12.10 - 11.62 = .48

12.49-11.93 = .56

12.22-11.78 = .46

46.61 - 1.68 (if all athletes in pb shape) = 44.93

44.93 is best scenario due to lack of passing and athletes having been in individual events prior. 45.3-45.8 is a more realistic target. The Phi record is 45.41 and 44.88 is good for silver whereas 45.3-45.8 perhaps bronze.

2013 SEA Games

Thailand 44.42

Vietnam 44.99

Indonesia 45.88

Myanmar 47.82

Malaysia DSQ

The Diagnosis

Based on the speed of our members and past history, Thailand with superior passing will win the relay. However Vietnam who is without Vu may run significantly slower. So the key challenge for the bronze would come from Indonesia and possibly Malaysia. Especially relevant is that Griffey and Kath have shown some good early season form. But it is crucial that the Richardson twins get into the 11.80 to 11.90 bracket. If this happens we have a very high medal chance. Yet the relay team members are willing to come out to camp in Manila on May 25 if the team is approved.