Backward runner seeks world record on July 25
PANGASINAN’S 46-year-old backward runner is determined to break the world record for the fastest backward runner in one hundred meters on July 25 at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center in Lingayen after the Guinness Book of World Records (GBWR) gave him the go signal last June 2.
Jojo Bigay told the local media last week that he is “a hundred percent ready” for the attempt to beat the 13.6 seconds in one hundred meters currently held by Ferdie Atoe Adoboe of Germany.
“I am confident that I will set a new record”, said Bigay. His unofficial time is 13.2 to 13.3 seconds.
He said he has been preparing for this historical event since he filed his intent to GBWR last October 2014.
“I have been conditioning my body through exercise and healthy diet and my training is focused on sprints”, said Bigay, whose training also included tempo running, speed training and cross training.
He had wanted to break the GBWR as early as 2011 but budget constraints derailed his plan.
“My sport doesn’t get that much attention because it is not popular but I want to do this to bring honor and pride to our province and the country as well,” Bigay said. “I thank my sponsors today for believing in me and my goal”, said Bigay.
Today, he has the local government units, Engr. Rosendo So of the ABONO Partylist and Mark Cojuangco supporting him in his endeavors.
Prior to the main event on July 25, a dry- run will be conducted on July 14 and his team will document the attempt under the strict conditions set by GBWR.
“We will send the copy of the documentation and we will know the verdict after six weeks,” said Bigay.
He appealed to Pangasineses to join on July 25 for moral support. “Their presence and cheers will keep my adrenaline up to beat the world record”, said Bigay.
Meanwhile, he encouraged young people to try his sport that is twice beneficial from the usual running sport. Bigay started as a track runner before he became a backward runner in 1991. (Hilda Austria)
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