The 6th White Rock Triathlon once again rocked the province of Zambales last November 7, 2009. 65 athletes, a mix of veterans and rookies, joined this year’s race. Although this race has been going on for 6 long years, there were some changes that surprised both participants and eXtribe.

Surprise Number 1 came during the race briefing when New Balance back packs were given to those athletes present. This is the first time eXtribe has given out gifts before the race even started. It was a pleasure to see the smiles on the athletes’ faces when they received their bags, courtesy of New Balance. Jojo Macalintal of Team Herbalife was given a loyalty reward by eXtribe captain Eric Imperio for participating in all of the WRT races. His entry fee for the 7th WRT will be waived.

On race day, the Extribe team was all set to start with the race only to encounter Surprise Number 2. Minutes before gun start, the swim team discovers that the anchors and buoys for the swim course have been stolen. It was a good thing the swim team managed to remedy the swim route and create a make-shift anchoring line in time for the race. The emergency fix shortened the swim course distance drastically. Race Director Darryl de Leon estimates the distance covered by the swimmers to total only 1.5k, half a kilometer short of the supposed distance.

In order to maximize the whole resort venue, the Extribe team decided to put the transition areas (TAs) at the same place. Both TAs were at the pavilion and was set up in such a way that it would be easy for participants to change into their bike gear and run gear, respectively all in a FIESTA theme! - Surprise number 3.

The bike leg, being the longest segment of the race, went on smoothly. The scenery was great which helped the athletes go on with the race in a less stressed condition. The relatively cooler temperature this year came as a relief in contrast to the heat of previous editions of the race. The run route lived up to its reputation as the more challenging part of the White Rock Triathlon. Running on rolling hills and dealing with vehicles sharing the same lane as you is no joke. It required athletes to focus on their run without sacrificing their safety. Aid Stations were positioned strategically along the route. Water, bananas, sponges and special needs for the athletes were made available.

Just when the participants thought they have finished the race, surprise number 4 just had to happen. Before they could cross the finish line, the participants had to run an extra loop around the White Rock Resort - an additional 300+ meters. Most of the athletes had mixed emotions – dread for doing an extra distance and exhilaration with the crowd cheering you on. The extra loop gave spectators – mostly athletes’ families and supporters – a chance to see their athlete in action a little while longer. Somehow, the latter gave an extra value in crossing the finish line.

Over-all winners for the male are: George Vilug of TriHard, Noel Salvador of TMM Timex and Grant Preddy from Australia, coming in 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively. For the female category, Manda Carpo of Polo Tri led the pack, followed by Fiona Ottiger also of Polo Tri, and Laarni Anenias of Team Herbalife coming in 3rd.

The WRT 2009 culminated with athletes given due honor and recognition in the Awards Banquet and everyone was treated to the reggae beat of the local band “Fundamentalist”. Special recognition was also given to the “living legends” of the WRT- Alvin Alindogan, Hiroshi Takei and Jojo Macalintal.

The WRT 2009 brought to us by New Balance, Blue Cross Insurance, Alaska Milk, Paragon Printing, The Business Mirror, Action and Fitness Magazine, Friendster, Fury Eyewear, Gatorade and David’s Saloon; is supported by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, the City of Olongapo, the Province of Zambales, and the Pyramid Youth Organization; timing system is provided by RFID; and hosted by White Rock Beach Resort.

Congratulations to all the finishers!!!!
Complete 2009 WRT results can be viewed here.