For the 11 Filipino athletes who represented the country at the recent World Masters Athletics competition in Gothenburg, Sweden, punctuality—both on and off the track—was a non-negotiable priority.
In Sweden, where everyone strictly adheres to schedules, being on time is essential. Thanks to their official timekeepers, Lacoste Watch and Wrist_Pod, the athletes were always on track, whether heading to practice or preparing for their competitions.
Among the standout performers were pole vaulter Riezel Buenaventura and javelin thrower Danilo Fresnido. Competing in a world-class tournament that drew 1,400 athletes aged 35 and above, including former world champions, Buenaventura secured a silver medal by leaping 3.15m, just behind her German rival’s 3.45m. “Live your life to the fullest. Life is short yet wonderful. Train smarter as time goes by, allocate more time to recover, and eat wisely and on time,” Buenaventura advised.
Fresnido, a coach for the national elite division, clinched the Philippines’ first medal at the 2024 World Masters Athletics Championships, taking silver in the men’s javelin throw for the 50-54 age group. The three-time Southeast Asian (SEA) Games gold medalist launched the javelin to an impressive 56.34 meters on his third attempt, earning him second place behind Italy’s Carlo Sonego.
“As a coach of our national athletes, I train alongside them in the gym and during weight training. When we practice javelin throwing, I ensure they finish first so I can supervise their throws,” said Fresnido, who still holds the Philippine national javelin record with a throw of 72.93 meters, achieved during the SEA Games in Laos on Dec. 17, 2009.
The rest of Team Philippines from the National Masters & Senior Athletics Association of the Philippines (NMSAAP) also made a good account of themselves in what is considered the “Olympics” of senior and masters athletes.
Edward Kho, an academician, emphasized the need to balance time according to priorities. “As a masters athlete, time management is essential because I must fit my training into my other regular responsibilities, including work, reading, and rest,” said Kho, who finished fifth in Heat 2 of the men’s 50-54 400m hurdles.
For Brenda Zinampan, who reached the semifinals in the women’s 45-49 100m, time management is crucial. “Effective time management is vital, especially for masters athletes like us, as it is the gateway to mastery. Without it, we risk burnout, injury, fatigue, and demotivation. With effective time management, we become more productive and in control.”
TIME AND PRIORITIES
Despite being a late bloomer in athletics, pole vaulter and discus thrower Judith Staples knows how to prioritize her training alongside her corporate responsibilities. “Prioritizing is a highly effective solution for busy, schedule-challenged masters athletes, especially those managing their own businesses or still working full-time. Efficient time management helps balance your activities, so you don’t overlook the important things. Learn the difference between urgent and important. Situations won’t always be perfect, but at least they’ll be manageable. And don’t forget to have fun,” Staples added.
Collegiate athletics coach Edward Obiena also stresses the need for balance. “Time management is essential for maintaining a life-work balance. Masters athletes have responsibilities beyond training and need to observe strict discipline and time management to succeed both as athletes and in life.”
Drolly Claravall, the lady president of NMSAAP, maximizes every opportunity to avoid spreading herself too thinly. As a health practitioner, academician, and masters athlete, she advocates for a well-balanced life. “Life is short! Let’s make precious memories out of it. Start your athletics masters journey now to maintain good health, inspire others, and encourage many through your life. A well-balanced life is a joyful life.”
Sprinter John Aguilar shares a similar perspective, ensuring he lives life to the fullest. “The older I get, the more I realize that I must never let life get in the way of pursuing my passions. Time is our most precious commodity. The more time I invest in my health and well-being, the better husband, father, entrepreneur, and athlete I become.”
For marathoner Nhea Barcena, keeping track of time is a daily task. “Time is for important things; it moves fast, and there’s no replay, so enjoy each moment as it comes.”
Triple jumper Ninoy Marayag emphasizes that time is precious and shouldn’t be wasted. “Time is one of the most valuable resources, yet it’s often taken for granted. Unlike material possessions, once time is lost, it can never be regained. Every second that passes is a moment we can never relive, a chance we may never get again. As a masters athlete, this realization compels me to value time above all.”
Long-distance runner Bhen Alacar also underscores the importance of making a daily list, saying, “I manage my time through daily schedules, listing things to do like training, work, quality time with my family, and, importantly, my time with God.”
The Philippine masters athletes return home from Sweden with their time well-managed and spent, creating lasting memories in Sweden.
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