By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Kenyan runner David Kipsang displayed unmatched speed and endurance to rule the 42-kilometer open category of the inaugural City of Smiles International Marathon, held in Bacolod City as part of the 46th MassKara Festival.

Kipsang outpaced more than 3,000 runners from Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo, and other parts of the Philippines, as well as international participants, finishing the marathon with a commanding four-minute lead over his closest rivals.

Fellow Kenyan athletes Chige Mwangi and Eric Kibiwott Chepsiror finished in third and fourth place, respectively, while Filipino runner Edsel Moral emerged as the top local contender, securing the second overall spot with a strong finish that showcased his determination and grit.

In the women’s open category, Jennylyn Nobleza took the gold medal after a dominant performance, followed by Myrel Benignos and Genabel Rebio, who bagged the silver and bronze medals, respectively.

Veteran runners also made their mark in the age divisions.

In the 55-and-above bracket, Jose Levy Saavedra topped the field, while Cesar Jolito Jr., a 64-year-old competitor, impressed with a fourth-place finish.

Monalisa Geraldez and Alain Tu completed the women’s division as the category’s finishers, exemplifying resilience and perseverance.

In the 43-54 age group, Joseph Heyres and Hermily Donasco earned gold medals in the men’s and women’s divisions, respectively.

Meanwhile, Joseph Mururi and Ma. Kristina Chalnani ruled the 31-42 age bracket, both showcasing tactical running and endurance.

Among younger competitors, Randolf Magbanua dominated the men’s race in the 30-and-under category, while Mariel Jay Guzman topped the women’s side, representing the new generation of marathoners with energy and determination.

The City of Smiles International Marathon is part of the MassKaralympics, organized by the Gugma Foundation Inc., celebrating Bacolod’s vibrant culture of fitness, unity and festivity during the MassKara Festival 2025./ASC, WDJ