Filipino endurance athletes delivered another strong showing on the international stage after winning several medals at the 2026 GOMU World Championships 2026 held during the Cinisello Balsamo Running Festival from March 28 to 30.
Organized by the Global Organization of Multi-Day Ultramarathoners, the competition brought together elite ultrarunners from around the world to compete in 48-hour, 24-hour and 12-hour races, where athletes aim to cover the farthest distance within a set period.
Leading the Philippine contingent was Paris-based ultrarunner Luisa Nunez, who topped the women’s 24-hour category after covering 161 kilometers in 115 loops.
Nunez dominated the race and demonstrated the endurance and mental toughness required in ultrarunning, a sport in which athletes push through fatigue, sleep deprivation and physical strain.
Another Filipino runner, Milan-based Rachel Cabasa, also secured a podium finish after placing third in the same category with 124.6 kilometers, or 89 loops.
Filipino athletes also earned several podium finishes across the different race categories.
In the 48-hour category, Eugene Evangelista and Bren Kevin Cabasa both placed third in their age categories, while Paula Lewis finished second and Ella Rose Esteleydes claimed first place.
In the 24-hour category, Mario Sarmiento placed third, Jobeth Castro finished second, while Adam Santiago won first place in his age category. Mark Anthony Dasig also earned a third-place finish.
Meanwhile, in the 12-hour category, Kelvin Lorenzo Padul and Maridel Matinong both placed third, while Precious Pangan finished second.
The results highlighted the growing presence of Filipino ultrarunners on the world stage and reflected the perseverance, sacrifice and discipline behind every athlete’s performance. – Alona Cochon
