JIE Angela Mikaela Talosig capped the final day of competition at the 4th Southeast Asia Open Water Swimming Championships with a breakthrough podium finish.
The 20-year-old Filipina claimed bronze in the Women’s 20+ category, securing her first-ever medal at the international level in open water swimming.
Talosig admitted she entered the race without expecting to finish on the podium, with her main goal simply to gain experience against international competition.
“Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to win a medal today,” Talosig said. “My goal was mostly to experience what it’s like at an international level.”
The achievement became even more meaningful with the home crowd cheering her on in Boracay.
“To win a medal with the home crowd watching is a very nice feeling,” she added.
Talosig began competing in open water in October 2024, but her preparation for the Boracay meet was largely focused on pool swimming ahead of the UAAP season in November.
A long-distance specialist, Talosig competes in the 400-, 800- and 1,500-meter freestyle events. In UAAP Season 88, she won gold in the 800-meter freestyle and bronze medals in the 200- and 400-meter freestyle events.
After making her international open water breakthrough, Talosig is now hoping the performance could lead to a place in the national training pool.
“Hopefully this time,” she said. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
