LANAO DEL NORTE (PIA) — Before becoming a champion in Philippine endurance racing, Leyann Ramo was a young girl who simply loved swimming.Ramo started swimming at the age of nine and later joined competitions in high school. She won a silver medal in the 400-meter freestyle event at the Palarong Pambansa, which helped open opportunities for her athletic career.
Her talent brought her to the University of Santo Tomas (UST), where she became part of the varsity swimming team and earned medals in butterfly and freestyle events. Her achievements also helped her receive a full scholarship.After college, Ramo became a swimming coach. It was through coaching that she discovered triathlon after one of her students invited her to watch a race.
Inspired by the sport, she started training for triathlon competitions in 2015. She first joined short-distance races before moving to longer events, including 70.3 races and full Ironman competitions.After years of training, Ramo completed her first full Ironman race on June 7, 2026. She won the women’s division of the Century Tuna IRONMAN Philippines in Subic after completing a 3.8-kilometer swim, 180-kilometer bike ride, and 42.2-kilometer run.For Ramo, her success was built through patience, consistency, and hard work.“Patience and consistency are very important lessons that I have learned, not only in sports but also in real life,” she said.
A product of Mindanao Civic CenterAlthough she grew up in Iligan, Ramo continued her athletic journey in Lanao del Norte, where she trained at the Mindanao Civic Center (MCC).She credited the support of the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte and the Municipality of Sultan Naga Dimaporo for helping her prepare for competitions through training opportunities, race assistance, and other support.“I am very proud to say that I am a product of MCC,” Ramo said.
She added that her achievements were not only because of her own efforts but also because of the people and organizations that supported athletes like her.Inspiring the next generationRamo’s journey highlights the importance of providing opportunities and support for young athletes.
With the continued development of MCC as a sports facility, more athletes in Lanao del Norte and Mindanao may have opportunities to train and compete.She encouraged young athletes to stay committed to their chosen sports despite challenges.“It’s difficult at the beginning, but if you persevere, all your hardships in training will eventually bear fruit,” she said.From a young swimmer to an Ironman champion, Ramo’s story shows how dedication, support, and determination can help athletes achieve their dreams.
Reigning Ironman queen Leyann Ramo joins Lanao del Norte provincial officials and Philippine Sports Commission representatives during the kickoff of the Sports Summit on July 28, 2026 in Tubod, Lanao del Norte. (Photo courtesy of 2nd District Office of Lanao del Norte)
