Ronda toasts new king in Lomotos

Ronald Lomotos displays the chequered flag to the crowd in Baguio after topping the Ronda race.—Contributed photo

BAGUIO—Ronald Lomotos of Navy Standard Insurance did just enough to make sure that the final stage of the 11th LBC Ronda Pilipinas became his victory ride and become cycling’s newest toast after holding off the game’s big guns in the short criterium that ended at Burnham Park here.

The 27-year-old Lomotos, who wrested the overall lead on Saturday with a gutsy Stage 9 ride, checked in with a group that included his team captain and closest pursuer Ronald Oranza in 20th spot, clocking one hour, 17 minutes and 50 seconds for the 3.1-kilometer lap.

“I still can’t believe I’m now LBC Ronda Pilipinas champion,” said Lomotos, who finished second overall behind Navy teammate George Oconer in the last edition of this annual cycling spectacle two years ago. He won a cool P1 million.

Sweep of honors

In all, Lomotos completed more than 1,000 kms in 35:31:38, edging Oranza, who had a total of 35:31:59.

Navy Standard also dominated the team race with three others ending up in the top 10—El Joshua Carino (No. 3, 35:50:32), Jeremy Lizardo (No. 4, 35:50:43) and John Mark Camingao (No. 10, 36:12:17).

Navy claimed its seventh Ronda team crown with a total clocking of 103:56:27.

Excellent Noodles had an exceptional Ronda debut as it finished second in the team race in 35:56:34.

Meanwhile, Excellent Noodles captain Santy Barnachea announced that he would be retiring for good after leading his squad to a solid performance.

“I’m retiring after 25 years in cycling, I will focus on coaching,” said the 47-year-old two-time Ronda winner.

Ryan Tugawin of Excellent Noodles topped Stage 10 with a time of 1:17:15, nipping former champion George Oconer and Ronnilan Quinta of Go for Gold, who checked in a full second behind.