Strong Debut for Filipina Bobsled Team in North American Cup

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

Filipina bobsledders made an impressive entry at the IBSF North American Cup monobob race in Lake Placid, New York, finishing sixth and seventh. Competing for the Philippines, Rhea Sumalpong and Shirley Salamagos showcased strong performances against veteran Olympic bobsledders from Team USA.

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Sumalpong, a former Southeast Asian Games athlete, completed her runs with a combined time of 2 minutes 18 seconds. She followed closely behind Team USA's Sydney Milani (2:14) and Sadie McMullen (2:15). Both Sumalpong and Salamagos are active duty members of the Philippine Coast Guard Special Services Center, marking a significant achievement for the Philippines in the sport.

The Philippine National Bobsled Luge & Skeleton Association Inc. (PNBLSA), training and competing in countries such as Austria, Canada, and South Korea, is proud of this milestone moment. PNBLSA President Thelmo Cunanan Jr. expressed excitement over the team's participation, calling it a major accomplishment for Philippine bobsledding.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Manila Bulletin · 30 Mar 2026