University of Mindanao (UM) President Guillermo “Willie” Torres is feeling both nostalgic and motivated after his election as the new Philippine Track and Field Association (Patafa) Executive Vice President.
Torres was elected EVP along with new Patafa President Terry Capistrano.
Torres and Capistrano were teammates with the DeLa Salle University track team in the 70s.
The new leadership evolved after the resignation of former chief Philip Ella Juico.
In an interview with this writer, Torres said he accepted the challenge in order to get going the reforms Patafa needed.
Torres (left) with the writer at The Royal Mandaya Hotel.
“I joined the De La Salle track team in 1971. My event was the 110 high hurdles,” said Torres.
Torres also competed in men’s high jump and long jump events. He was a member of the NCAA Track overall champion team in 1973.
Aside from Capistrano, Torres also recalls Mike Marcos as one of his teammates.
Torres’ stint did not last long.
“I quit the team in 1973 when my dad told me to work at an investment bank for on the job training,” he said.
