Vietnam Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Chloe Isleta solidified her status as one of the country’s swimming stars, claiming five gold medals after three days of intense competition at the Philippine Aquatics Inc. (PAI) National Trials 25-meter short course.
The University of Arizona alumnus and member of its professional team in the US Series, Isleta dominated the girls’ 50 back and 200 free, clocking times of 27.83 and 2:04.17, respectively.
The event was supported by Speedo, Pocari Sweat, and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).
Currently pursuing her master’s degree in Communication and Media at De La Salle University-Taft and training under her own Chloe Swim Club based in Ilocos Norte, Isleta outpaced fellow national mainstay and 2023 Cambodia SEA Games record holder Xiandi Chua in their 50m duel (29.06). Tarlac pride and Asian Age-Group Championship campaigner Trixie Ortiguerra secured the bronze medal at 29.25.
In the 200 free, Isleta overpowered La Salle bet Hannah Sanchez (2:09.10) and South Cotabato pride Jie Angela Talosig (2:10.38).
This marked the third consecutive victory for Isleta against the Australian-trained Chua of Top Swim Club.
On Tuesday’s opener, she claimed the 100 backstroke (1:00.31) against her La Salle schoolmate (1:01.14).
On Wednesday, Isleta edged out Chua in the 100 Individual Medley (1:01.64) against 1:03.02. In the 50 free, she triumphed over Fil-Am Miranda Renner (25.65/25.72).
“I’m just doing my best,” said Isleta. “I guess I’m in good shape and ready to compete for the flag and country.”
The event served as a selection process for members of the Philippine Team set to participate in the World Aquatics World Series (short course), which comprises competition on Oct. 18-20 (Series 1) in Shanghai, China; Series 2 on Oct. 24-26 in Incheon, South Korea; and Series 3 on Oct. 31 to Nov. 2 in Singapore. The series culminates with the grand championships on Dec. 10-15 in Budapest, Hungary.
Other gold medalists include Miguel Barreto of Ayala Harpoons in the boys’ 200-m free (1:49.68); Rian Marco Tirol in the boys’ 100-m breast (1:00.91); Sophia Annika Margare Isip in the girls’ 100m breast (1:12.41); Jerard Dominic Jacinto 50 back ( 24.89); Robin Christophel Domingo in 200m butterfly (2:02.38); Micaela Jasmine Mojdeh 200m fly ( 2:15.31); Raymund Paloma 800mfree (8:23.94); and Jie Angela Talosig girls’ 800m free (9:30.09).
