By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — Agusan del Sur athletics coach Elias Tabac placed ninth overall in the 2026 Spartan Ultra World Championship held in Morzine, France, emerging as the only Asian athlete to finish in the men’s elite Top 10.
Competing on the rugged mountain terrain of Morzine, Tabac once again showcased Filipino grit in one of the world’s toughest obstacle course races. The Spartan Ultra combines extreme-distance trail running with physically demanding obstacles that test an athlete’s endurance, strength, agility and mental toughness.
Known as the “Spartan King” of the Philippines, the Bayugan City native has built a decorated obstacle racing career, including his participation in Guinness World Records-recognized high-altitude races such as the World’s Highest Obstacle Course Race on Mount Kilimanjaro. He also recently competed strongly in Spartan races in Asia, including events in Thailand and Taiwan, before earning a spot in the Spartan Ultra World Championship.In an online interview, Tabac described his ninth-place finish as the highest achievement of his obstacle racing career so far.
“This is the best result I have achieved — number nine in the whole world. I am amazed,” Tabac said.
He said he entered the race with a calm mindset and simply focused on giving his best.
“I just enjoyed the race. There was no pressure. I did my very best, and I will come back stronger in 2027 — hopefully for a Top 5 finish,” he added.
Tabac said he trained in Baguio City for only one month before joining the world championship, as he had been busy coaching Caraga athletics players during the Palarong Pambansa held from May 24 to 31.
He also served as athletics coach for Agusan del Sur and the Caraga Region during the 2026 Palarong Pambansa, helping develop young athletes who represented the region in the national games.
Following his latest international achievement, Tabac expressed his gratitude to Governor Santiago “Santi” Cane Jr., Representative Adolph Edward “Eddiebong” Plaza, and Representative Alfelito “Alfel” Bascug for their continued support of Agusan del Sur’s athletics program and the development of the province’s athletes and their families.
Tabac’s Top 10 finish further cemented his reputation as one of Asia’s premier obstacle course racers and added another milestone to Agusan del Sur’s growing legacy in international sports.
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