By Romeo Braceros Jr.

Two talented track athletes have argued their cases to be included in the national team competing at the upcoming Asian Youth Athletics Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

At the Philippine Sports Commission-Batang Pinoy National Championships held at the Quirino Stadium track oval in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Leonelyn Compuesto of Masbate and Mico Villaran of Bacolod City each won multiple medals in their respective events. 

Their performances draw attention from the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association.

"Based on their strong performances, they are at the top of the shortlist," Patafa secretary general Edward Kho said.

The two are highly regarded candidates for the delegation representing the nation at the Asian competition scheduled for April 27-30, 2023.

Each entrant can compete in two events during the Asian Youth Tilt.

After winning the 100-meter dash gold and the 4400-meter relay gold, Masbate Sports Academy athlete Compuesto, 15, finished the girls' category with five gold medals.

She finished the 100-meter race in 13.11 (103) seconds, beating South Cotabato's Schenley Ombid (13.11 (109) secs) and Capiz's Angel Villagracia (13.47 secs). The relay team of Compuesto won over Calamba (4:29.30) and Binan (4:35.77) with a time of 4:14.96.  

The 10th grader previously took first place in the 200, 400, and 4100 relays. 

According to Kho, the two will have the sports association's full backing as they prepare for their overseas stint.

Compuesto and Villaran traveled to Manila for additional instruction the following year.