It’s a prevailing misconception that sports are only for the young.
The recent 2024 5Throws for All Philippine Masters Athletics Championships serves as a testament that age is no barrier to athletic achievement.
At 53, I found myself embarking on a new journey in athletics, something I never imagined possible at my age.
Encouraged by friends from NAMSAP, including directors Judith Staples and coach Edward Obiena, as well as president Drolly Claravall, I decided to take on the challenge of competing in my first throwing event.
Under the guidance of Coach Eds (Obiena), uncle of pole vault ace EJ Obiena, I underwent just two training sessions before competing in the men’s javelin throw for the 50–54-year-old category.
To my surprise, I managed to secure the silver medal, despite facing tough competition from seasoned athletes like Danilo Fresnido, the Philippine national record holder in the event.
Adapting to the techniques of javelin throwing wasn’t easy, but my background as an amateur boxer and national kickboxing coach helped, as the hip movement required bore some resemblance to throwing a punch.
However, what truly captivated me were the stories of other participants, particularly individuals like 85-year-old Francisco Ramones, who defied age stereotypes by competing in the M85 100-meter race, and 77-year-old Rosalinda Ogsimer, who discovered her passion for running at the age of 65 and has since excelled in various sprint and long-distance events.
Supported by organizations like the Zen Institute, Nestle MILO, wrist_pod, Great Sierra Development Corporation, Masix Sports, Pocari Sweat, FilAmSports, Drolly’s, Energya, Penser, PSC, and Patafa, athletes like Ogsimer continue to inspire with their dedication and performance.
In this year’s championships, Ogsimer’s notable performance saw her clinch six gold medals in multiple events.
Then there was also the story of two old rivals from the Ateneo and Letran athletics teams where they met again after 40 years. They have become rivals and friends on the field.
With over 400 participants representing 20 clubs, the event, organized by Edobee Sports for NAMSAP, it showcased the breadth of talent and camaraderie within the masters athletics community.
The Philippine Airforce squad emerged as the overall champions.
Independent participant Colin Gordon emerged as the Most Valuable Athlete awardee for men after bagging five gold medals.
The female trophy went to Brenda Agustin Ramos, who captured 11 gold medals and two silvers for topping the F45 100m, 200m, 400m, Javelin throw, Discus throw, shot put, long jump, high jump, triple jump, 4x100m mixed gender relay, and 4x400m mixed gender relay. Silver in 4x100m relay and 4x400m relay.
Ultimately, the 2024 PH Masters Athletics Championships underscored the timeless appeal of sports, regardless of age or background.
It serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passion for sports and that the journey toward physical fitness and personal fulfillment knows no age limits.
