Runners from Negros Road Runners and Bacolod Road Stallion emerged as champions in the first-ever North Negros Marathon, drawing more than 150 local and international participants on Sunday, Sept. 7.
Randolf Magbanua of the Negros Road Runners clinched the top spot in the men’s category with a time of 2:33:33 hours, followed by teammate Maclin Sadia with 2:42:16.
Jeson Agravante of Bacolod Road Stallion completed the podium with a time of 2:46:17.
In the women’s division, Jenelyn Nobleza of Bacolod Road Stallion ruled the race with a finish of 3:14:36 hours.
She was trailed by sisters Myrel, 3:18:29, and Mitche Benignos, 3:22:15, of the Sipalay City Running Team.
The relay marathon also brought strong performances, with Arjie Baynes and April Boy Hemongala topping the male category, while Aires Emat and Koonerjane Tigayon secured the female relay crown.
The 42-kilometer route started at Gregorio Lauron Sr. Park in Manapla, passed through Cadiz City, and concluded at the Sagay City Public Plaza—showcasing unity and grit among North Negros communities.
Organized with the support of the Office of 2nd District Rep. Alfredo D. Marañon III, alongside the LGUs of Manapla, Cadiz, and Sagay, the event underscored the congressman’s advocacy for sports and wellness, a press release from Sagay City said.
Marañon, who has long supported sports and wellness initiatives, expressed his gratitude to the runners and organizers.
“This event showed not only discipline and endurance but also the spirit of unity across our communities”, he said, adding that he is committed to support the North Negros Marathon next year.
Present during the event were Sagay City Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva, Manapla Mayor Mika Escalante, Sagay Councilor Benson Fernandez, Provincial Board Member Arthur Christopher Marañon, North Negros Marathon Co-organizer Bensoi Rivera, MSBN President GJ Sarrosa, and Congressional District’s Executive Assistant Jun Fuentesfina.
Joachim Sarrosa, the marathon coordinator, also expressed his gratitude, noting that the event’s success sets the stage for growth.
“We are thankful for all the participants who joined this pioneering marathon. With the support of our LGUs and Congressman Marañon, we hope to make the North Negros Marathon bigger and more exciting next year,” he added.
Winners brought home prizes including hotel accommodations at Nature’s Village Resort in Talisay, Adidas Evo SL shoes, Garmin Forerunner 55 watches, and P70,000 worth of running gear.*