Pinoy runners make mark in 32nd Pattaya Marathon

Cebu-based runner Artjoy Torregosa pulled off a surprise performance in the 32nd Pattaya Marathon, finishing fifth overall in the women’s 21-kilometer race and emerging as one of Southeast Asia’s top finishers in the prestigious event.

The 26-year-old Torregosa, originally from Butuan but now based in Sambag Uno, Cebu City, clocked 1:27.08 in what was her first-ever international race.

“Pagdating ko sa finish line, sinasabitan ako ng top 5 medal. Hindi ko akalain na makakatop 5 ako,” said Torregosa, admitting that she felt intimidated by the elite field before the race even started.

Ethiopian Shauline Koech dominated the women’s 21-km event in 1:14.26, followed by Alice Koigi (1:16.00) and Laotian Lodkeo Inthakoumman (1:25.00). Fellow Filipina Nhea Ann Barcena also delivered a respectable finish with 1:29.25.

In the men’s 42-kilometer marathon, Edsel Moral, 29, from Sta. Rosa, Laguna, was the top Filipino finisher, placing fourth overall in 2:37.44. Competing internationally for the first time, Moral said the race was both challenging and unforgettable.

“Exciting po ang first international race ko. Sinunod ko ang game plan, dumikit lang sa mga nasa unahan hanggang halfway mark,” shared Moral in an online interview with Manila Standard.

Despite the strong winds and hot coastal weather of Pattaya, Moral powered through, finishing just behind three Ethiopian frontrunners. Tarik Abdi claimed the men’s title in 2:25.03, followed by Dereje Miko (2:33.13) and Kindu Tirunek (2:35.00).

In the women’s 42-km division, Maricar Camacho secured ninth place, while Japan’s Haruna Takano won gold with a time of 2:49.45, ahead of China’s Ling Wu (2:51.46) and Ethiopia’s Yesheemebet Taso (2:55.47).

Moral and Torregosa were part of a 13-runner Philippine delegation sent by organizers of the 2025 7-Eleven Run Series, giving local grassroots athletes a rare chance to compete against elite international runners.

“We sent runners who are grassroots-level athletes. This was their time to shine and gain valuable experience,” said Jose Ang Jr., 7-Eleven Philippines executive, who accompanied the team to Thailand.