Barefoot Runner ‘Lheslie De Lima’ Bags Palarong Pambansa Gold Medal

Bicolana barefoot runner Lheslie de Lima sealed the first 2018 Palarong Pambansa Gold Medal.

LHESLIE DE LIMA – Barefoot runner Lheslie De Lima brings pride to the Bicol Region as she struck the first gold medal of Palarong Pambansa 2018 on April 15.

Based on a report from Rappler, the 13-year old young athlete was first discovered two years ago by her coach and mentor, Rolando Merencillo. Her impeccable potential as a beginner was enough to bring her in the 2016 Palarong Pambansa but was not able to bring home any medals.

Her skills further developed when she competed in Antique last year, having seized three silver medals in 400 meters, 800 meters, and 1,500 meters categories.

As per the report, In the opening day of the 2018 Palarong Pambansa, De Lima aced her first try in the 3000-meter race as she clocked 10:06.54, scarcely beating Camila Tubiano from Region X by roughly a second. The latter took 10:07.07 to reach the finish line.

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Photo lifted from: ABS-CBN News

While De Lima’s record seems to be impressive for her age, what draws more attention was the fact that the 13-year old young athlete from Baao National High School opted to run barefooted despite the hot pavement.

“We tried to make her wear spikes but she didn’t want to,” said her coach, Merencillo.

When asked why, De Lima was quick to respond that she was more comfortable to run without the spikes, stressing that they were too heavy for her.

De Lima is a daughter of a farmer and a home-maker in Baao, Camarines Sur. She is allegedly a close relative of the former Department of Justice Secretary and Senator Leila De Lima, as told by her grandfather.

According to the gold medalist, she dedicates her success to the former Senator who is presently in jail.

Sabihin ‘nyo, para sa kanya ito.” Leslie said.

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