CAPAS, Tarlac — Making her Philippine Athletics Championships debut, Amanda Javellana of Fil-Am Sports claimed the women’s hammer throw national title on Saturday at the New Clark City Stadium here.
Representing the Philippines at the Southeast Asian Games last December, Amanda unleashed a 51.12-meter (m) throw to rule the event and seize the gold medal.
Joana Marie Bandal of the University of Santo Tomas claimed the silver medal with a 43.15-m throw, while Shiela Mae Batayo of the University of the East took the bronze with a 43.12-m throw.
Raised in California by her Filipino parents who hails from Bacolod, Abellana said she’s not really in her best form during the competition.
“It’s definitely not my best,” said Abellana, who suited up her freshman year for Long Beach State University but is now looking to transfer to California Northstate University.
“However, I know that I can do better and that today isn’t a representation of my whole [training] or who I am. But I know next time, whenever I compete in the Philippines again, it’s gonna be better.”
The 19-year-old added:
“I probably give it like a 4 out of 10. I definitely didn’t feel like my best today. There’s definitely [something] missing in my throw, but I know I could improve it next time,” said Abellana.
“I am going for the national record. MY PR is 55.91, and I know the PR of [national record holder] Shiloh [Corales-Nelson] is around 58 (58.36), so I know I’m gonna come close to that really soon.”
Meanwhile, Kaitlyn Clare Litan of the University of Northeastern Philippines timed 10:56.91 to rule the women’s U18 3000-m run and snare the gold medal.
Rhicca Mae Buenaventura of National Academy of Sports clocked 11:13.96 for the silver, while Lovely Dagatan of Tri Snd Barracuda submitted 11:14.46 for the bronze.
NIEL VICTOR MASOY
