Patrick Coo of the Philippines earned his first-ever Southeast Asian Games medal, taking bronze in the BMX men’s time trial at the 33rd SEA Games on Friday night, December 12, in Bangkok. The event was held at the BMX Stadium within the Kamol Sports Park, featuring top riders from across the region.

Thailand dominated the podium with Asian champion Komet Sukprasert claiming gold and Putthaphum Nakpaen finishing with silver. Coo, 23, clocked a time of 36.618 seconds, narrowly edging out Indonesian Akbar Rio, who finished fourth with 36.772.

Coo proud despite high expectations

“It is my first SEA Games, and I came with higher expectations after winning Asian Games bronze. I am disappointed I didn’t get higher, but I am proud to add this bronze to the Philippines’ medal tally,” said Coo.

He also expressed gratitude for the support from the delegation and PhilCycling. “I am very thankful to the Philippine delegation and to PhilCycling for helping me achieve this milestone,” Coo added.

Caluag vows comeback in men’s BMX race

Incheon Asian Games gold medalist and 2019 SEA Games silver medalist Danny Caluag finished fifth among seven competitors with a time of 39.106. Despite falling short of the podium, Caluag promised to come back stronger for Saturday’s BMX men’s race event.

“I am happy with the result since the time trial is not my main event, but I will give my best to come back stronger tomorrow,” Caluag said.

Thailand’s Sukprasert, 25, continued his dominance in the regional games, clocking 34.526 to secure gold, just a second faster than silver medalist Nakpaen, who finished with 35.507.