Hard work and passion for running landed Richeel Languido and Judelyn Miranda in first place in the 41st National Milo Marathon 21-kilometer qualifying leg in Davao on Sunday.
Languido topped the male division with a time of 1 hour, 15 minutes and 14 seconds to beat Michale Echalieo (1:18:29).
Miranda, who also topped the Davao leg two years ago, clocked 1:32:07, beating Vivian Avergonzado (1:41:38).
Languido and Miranda gained slots to the National Finals in Cebu City on Dec. 3.
The 31-year old Languido’s training regimen included 90 minutes of running hour before heading to work and a 30-minute jog before heading home.
It was the 32-year old Miranda’s third time to participate in the Davao race. The next leg will be held in Butuan on Nov. 12. —VANESSA B. HIDALGO