Pinoy SuperTriKids: World Kids Tri Yokohama Race Report

Pinoy SuperTriKids participate in World Kids Triathlon and Sports Summit in Japan!
 
The SuperTriKids’ participation in the World Kids Sports Summit and the World Kids Triathlon in Yokohama was an invaluable and enriching experience for each and every one of them. The seven boys and six girls all came home more motivated about training for and racing in international level competitions. Akira Michiko Sam from Davao was 6th in his wave and Gabrielle Allen Santiago of Laguna was another standout among the boys, placing 7th in his category. Teri and Andie Santos from Westgrove also did well among the girls, placing 6th and 8th, respectively. Most of their teammates where also competitive enough to stay in the middle to upper end of their pack in their first-ever international outing, which included hundreds of participants from countries like the USA, Ireland, Israel, Japan, China, Korea, Singapore, etc.
 
Here are some quotes gathered from the kids and parents:

Santos girls: “Our ultimate objective was to give it our best shot, and I honestly believe we did.”

Larry Ocampo: “It was a life-changing experience for Javi. He had to be disciplined in training and studying prior to the trip, and while in Japan, it was great for him to befriend kids from around the world and race at a higher level. He is determined to improve and return as a faster triathlete. As a parent I am very happy to see Javi’s discipline, confidence, social skills, and determination to be better get a major boost as a result of his participation.”

Alex Sam: “Both the summit and the triathlon were good exposure for the kids not only to different issues regarding the environment and how they can help in their own small way, as well as to other kids doing the same sport which serves as a confidence builder to make them strive more for their next events. The kids are now looking forward to more events like this and are excited to compete with other nationalities in the future. Thanks to TRAP for giving the kids the opportunity to attend this event. Congrats Team Pinoy SuperTriKids.”

Mylene Mapa: “The coaches were very supportive and attentive to the needs of the team. Nacho enjoyed the camaraderie with his teammates, as well as the new friendships formed and the healthy competition with other athletes from different countries. It was a great learning experience!”

Thanks to: Senator Pia for sponsoring our use of training facilities!!! TIMEX for the watches and caps!!! Gatorade for the Drinks!!! TRAP for keeping the program going!!! IGE for the Uniforms!!! Sir Tom, Coaches Rick, Abet, Joel, Patrick, Paolo, and all the Parents who constantly support their kids to become better athletes!!!
 
Athletes:
Boys
Gabrielle Allen Santiago, Nacho Mapa, Javi Ocampo, Ralph Gonzales, Gene Paguia, Akira Michico Sam, Miguel Dizon

Girls
Joey Santos, Teri Santos, Andie Santos, Denise Faith Garcia, Tintin Manalo, Bea Salera