2011 SU Update: A first for Philippines

Mervin Guarte (1021) of the Philippines completes his first lap of the men’s 1,500-meter event during the 2011 Summer University Games in Shenzhen, China.
By Christian V. Cruz 

SHENZHEN – Out of breath and speechless, Filipino runner Melvin Guarte couldn’t put his thoughts into words when asked about his experience in Shenzhen,China.

Guarte just completed the men’s 1,500-meter run – his first of two athletics events in the 2011 Summer University Games. The 19-year-old student ofSan SebastianCollegeis one of thePhilippines’ very first athletes to compete in the biennial Universiade.

Guarte posted three minutes and 59.39 seconds, trailingCongo’s Alex Ngouari Mouissi (3:57.62) andSlovenia’s Mitja Krevs (3:55.34).

“My race was ok but I wasn’t ready to compete yet because I have to complete my training,” he said in an interview.

“I have no preparation for the Universiade because I study every day.”

Guarte said his training was difficult, but he’s ready to run anytime. He trailed the leading group ofRussia’s Viatcheslav Sokolov andGreat Britain’s Kristopher Gauson in the first two laps.

“My coach said it isn’t good if you aren’t leading in the first two laps. That is the reason I followed the leader (Sokolov), but I ran out of breath in the last lap,” he added.

Algeria’s Imad Touil eventually topped the group at three minutes and 53.29 seconds.

Nonetheless, Guarte remains jubilant in joining an international event.

“This is a good experience for me because this is the first time I competed in an international competition. I’m very happy – everything is beautiful. This is also my first time to compete in this kind of stadium.”

Guarte is now scheduled for the men’s 800m run on August 17. Overall, thePhilippineswill compete in archery, athletics, badminton, men’s basketball, beach volleyball, chess, swimming, taekwondo, and table tennis.

Within the country, the Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippinesis the only local university sports organization recognized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU).

(Source: Christian V. Cruz, FISU Young Reporter/(Northern Marianas Islands)