Members of the Philippine delegation in the 10th World Masters Athletics Indoor Championships held in Florida, USA on March 23-30, 2025. Brenda Ramos-Zinampan (left) won the country’s lone medal after winning the bronze in the women’s pentathlon 45-49 age category. (Contributed photo)
For pentathlete Brenda Ramos-Zinampan, winning the Philippine delegation’s lone medal at the 10th World Masters Athletics Indoor Championships was more than just a podium finish—it was the realization of a lifelong dream.
“It was a deeply fulfilling moment, a dream come true,” said the 47-year-old teacher from Solano, Nueva Vizcaya, who claimed bronze in the women’s pentathlon (45–49 age category) during the biennial meet held March 23–30 at the Alachua County Sports and Events Center in Gainesville, Florida.
Despite limited training time, financial constraints, and a packed schedule, Zinampan pushed through with discipline, consistency, and the unwavering support of her family—along with, she said, faith in God.
“This success is a reminder that it’s never too late to chase our dreams. Age is just a number. This win is not only for me, but for everyone who dares to dream, no matter the age or circumstances,” she added.
Zinampan was part of an eight-member team from the National Masters and Seniors Athletics Association of the Philippines (NMSAAP), joining more than 4,000 athletes from 80 countries.
Other Filipino athletes also delivered commendable performances:
- Nhea Ann Barcena of Panukulan, Quezon, finished 7th among 82 runners in the women’s 8K cross-country (40–44 age group). She also placed 15th overall and 9th in her division in the 10K road race out of 108 runners.
- Riezel Buenaventura matched her Masters record and achieved a personal best in the women’s pole vault (35–36 category), clearing 3.30 meters.
- Drolly Claravall earned 13th place out of 20 in the women’s hammer throw (55–59 group), recording a solid 26.27-meter throw.
- Judith Staples set a new personal best in the women’s pole vault (50–59 group) by clearing 2.20 meters. Her performance earned her 13th place overall and 5th in the 55–59 division.
- On the men’s side, Edward Obiena placed 11th in the discus throw (55–59 age group) with a 30.10-meter effort.
- Sotronio Igay competed in the men’s 70–74 group, finishing 13th in the 800 meters (3:32.70) and 17th in the 1,500 meters.
- Rodelio Gadapan notched a personal best of 2:38.15 in the men’s 800 meters (55–59 category), placing 20th out of 24 runners. He also ran a longer distance event with 167 participants, finishing 66th overall and 11th in his division with a time of 41:28—a new personal and season best.
The Filipino athletes showed that age is no barrier to excellence, making their mark on the global stage with grit, heart, and determination.