CAGAYAN de Oro City — Two Mindanao athletes proved that dedication can take local talent to the global stage after finishing second at the HYROX competition in New Delhi, India.
Desiree Adrienne Lim Yu of Pagadian City and Cagayan de Oro-based Fate Alejandra finished second in the Doubles division, securing their first international podium finish after eight months of rigorous preparation while training in separate cities.
Their achievement comes after competing in earlier HYROX races in Singapore, Taipei and Beijing, showing how consistent effort can lead to success against some of the world's fittest athletes.
HYROX is an international fitness race that combines eight one-kilometer runs with eight functional workout stations, testing endurance, strength and teamwork.
For Yu and Alejandra, the New Delhi race presented unexpected challenges from the start.
Because they began in a later wave, they had to weave through heavy athlete traffic, making it difficult to maintain their pace.
"Dili mi sa first wave naka-start, so pag-start namo daghan na kaayo athletes. Lisud kaayo i-run kay guot ug traffic kaayo sa run, nga maka-putol sa momentum," Yu said.
The course itself also tested their mental toughness.
Athletes had to complete three laps for every one-kilometer run, making each segment feel longer and more exhausting.
"Sa New Delhi, we had to run three laps for every 1-kilometer run. It made every kilometer feel much longer. At some point, your own mind becomes the opponent," Alejandra said.
To prepare for the demanding event, the pair focused on what athletes call "compromised running"—maintaining speed immediately after completing strength exercises while already fatigued.
"Important jud kaayo mag-train og compromised running. HYROX is extremely demanding physically," Yu said.
Success in the doubles division, however, depended on more than physical fitness.
"In doubles, it is not only about how fast you are individually, but how well you communicate, trust each other, and step up when your partner is struggling," Alejandra said.
Their podium win not only marks a personal milestone but also highlights the growing presence of Mindanao athletes in international fitness competitions, inspiring others in the region to pursue competitive sports despite the challenges of training far from major athletic hubs. (By Dave Achondo, Editorial Assistant)
