Never say quit for Abra’s 11-year old runner
Izzy Tuazon, an 11-year old Grade VI pupil of Dalaguisen Elementary School, Lagangilang, Abra is arguably one of the most enduring girl runner of CARAA 2018 as she was hailed as the solo finisher for the 1,500-meter run. She was given a chair to sit on and rest her bare feet (because she did not wear shoes in her race) for a while as she told stories about the 1500 meters she-and only she- had just completed.
Born to Brendalyn Barbosa and Reynante Tuazon, a farmer of Dalaguisen, Lagangilang, Izzy is the 6th among seven siblings. Barely 21 kilograms and has a height as that of Grade III pupil, this girl with admirable endurance dreams of becoming a nurse but her ultimate goal is to become an Olympic athlete.
The road of becoming a finisher was not easy for Izzy. She began running last year but she failed to win a medal. She was disappointed at first but she practiced harder long before their district athletic meet. When asked why she strived harder despite her failure, she enthusiastically answered: “every race, you learn more about yourself. It is doing hard things that you gain the confidence. I was not able to do it before so I convinced myself that I can do it this time”.
This year she was better prepared and after an initial low start she picked up the momentum and kept going strong throughout the race. Haidee Alimira Siwao, Izzy’s coach, described her as a reserved girl, she cried often because of homesickness but she is obedient and has a great sense of discipline.
Coach Siwao also added that she does not remember a time that Izzy disobeyed her trainers and coaches. In fact she is the earliest riser among the runners.
When the 11-year old gold medallist was asked what kept her going, she was quick to thank her mother, her most avid supporter. Her mom’s presence and cheers gave her stronger stamina to cross the finish line, but she also said that it was experience that made the difference.
She is now longing for home but she said that this experience will be with her even when she aged. After the CARAA, she would like to rest for a while then train harder for the Palarong Pambansa. Izzy wants to tell to children at her age, that in a long race, it doesn’t matter if you are the fastest, it is more important to finish your race. Giving your best to everything, discipline and obedience play very important roles.
(SHERYL C. BERSALONA)