WHEN it comes to the Filipino Men’s Elite in triathlon races, the man they call 'Rambo' hardly loses a battle.
National team mainstay John Leerams Chicano pulled off a three-peat in the Safeguard 5150 Triathlon in Subic, Zambales when he became the best Filipino male finisher in the race.
In an interview with Spin.ph shortly after the race, the boyish and affable triathlete said his latest win was special since he was also celebrating his 22nd birthday.
Rambo previously took the top podium finishes in the Men’s Elite in the 2012 and 2013 Century Tuna 5150 triathlons that were also held in Subic.
“Siempre masaya kasi part na ito ng birthday ko,” beamed Chicano as his wife, young daughter and grandparents celebrated his victory at the Kamana Sanctuary Resort and Spa.
He described the race, held in the eastern portion of the former US Navy base, as “exciting, especially the hilly portions.”
“Ang pinaka-challenging ‘yung middle leg - biking kasi two laps of four hills and less flats, so medyo mahirap yung course.”
According to Chicano, he was the third to come out of the water among the Philippine Elite in the swim leg but was able to gain an advantage in the bike and run. He finished sixth place overall, even beating some international triathletes in the more celebrated Men’s Pro category.
For his consistent performance in 5150 triathlons, Rambo credits his continuing training with the national triathlon team under the auspices of the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP).
The Olongapo City native was training in Subic when Typhoon Odette struck Zambales last September 23. “Sobrang lakas ng bagyo so we had to stay indoors," he said.
On his Facebook page, Rambo replied to everyone who sent him birthday greetings and messages of congratulations with a humble, “Thank you po” followed by a smiley face.
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