Bataan International Triathlon (Bi3) is happening on November 28-29, 2013 in Las Casas, which is a fast emerging heritage attraction in the Country. Among its registrants include Team No Limits, a multisport team composed of persons with developmental disabilities, their family members, therapists, teachers and coaches. Bi3 is among the few race series that allowed differently-abled athletes to participate in a multi-sport event. Their participation would surely inspire more people to look beyond their limitations and just go for their goals.
Bataan International Triathlon
F&F International Events Group Inc. recently started their online registration for Bataan International Triathlon (Bi3), a Filipino eco-heritage triathlon festival. Now on its second year, Bi3 is set to take place at Las Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan and will cater to athletes with varying degrees of multi-sport experience and also families. Bi3 highlights include a cultural show, a heritage tour, a post-race feast and many more activities for the whole family.
Team No Limits
Among those athletes who registered early are members from Team No Limits, a multisport team composed of persons with developmental disabilities, their family members, therapists, teachers and coaches. This year, the team’s lineup for the relay team will again include twins Joshua and Jerome Nelmida, who have visual impairment and TJ Trivino, who has Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger Syndrome).
When asked about their goals for this year’s race, they all revealed that they plan to level up their performances. “Ako po, gusto ko ma-achieve ay podium finisher,’yung maka-akyat at mapatunayan namin na hindi lang basta kami nagswi-swim. Miski sa triathlon, makaka-akyat din kami sa podium finish,” Joshua said.
Bi3 is among the few race series that allowed differently-abled athletes to participate in a multi-sport event.
Organizer Tobias Bernardo explained, “We believe in giving equal opportunities to all athletes, regardless of their ability. Our differently-abled athletes should be allowed a chance to experience what all the other athletes are able to experience. Last year we allowed them to race in a special category (Rapido Relay) but this year they will be racing the same distance as the other relay teams. “
To prepare for the race, the Team No Limits coaches and therapists have been doing a lot of research and discussions. Their program has also included training in open water to get used to the racecourse and using treadmill and stationary bike to improve muscle memory. Team No Limits Coach Anthony Lozada said that not only would they try to finish the race; they would also try to inspire more people to join triathlon.
“Gagamitin namin ‘yung race ng Bi3 para maka-inspire ng iba kasi napansin namin may na-inspire at tumawag sa’min, ‘Ang ganda naman ng ginawa niyo don, paano ninyo kami matuturuan dito [sa probinsya]? Ang layo ng naabot.”
