March 19, 2025

Who runs the world? Olympian-turned-runner Jenny Rose Guerrero wins 16KM women’s run

Who runs the world? Olympian-turned-runner Jenny Rose Guerrero wins 16KM women’s run
Former Olympian Jenny Rose Guerrero claims victory in the 16km category of the 2025 Women's Run PH. Art by Mitzi Solano/One Sports

Former Olympic swimmer Jenny Rose Guerrero made waves yet again—this time on land—as she clinched first place in the 16km category of the recent 2025 FCC Women's Run PH,, an event celebrating female empowerment and athleticism.

  

She crossed the finish line with an impressive official time of 1:19:48, showcasing her endurance and commitment to fitness. 

The 40-year-old athlete, once the youngest member of the Philippine Olympic swimming team, continues to show her competitive spirit, proving that her passion for sports remains strong even after retiring from the pool.

A Champion in Two Sports

Guerrero gained national recognition as a swimmer specializing in breaststroke. She represented the Philippines at the 2000 Sydney Olympics at just 14 years old, competing in both the 100m and 200m breaststroke.

She went on to win silver and bronze medals at the 2001 Southeast Asian Games and was a finalist in the 2002 Asian Games before retiring in 2005.

Despite stepping away from competitive swimming, Guerrero never truly left the world of sports. Now a swim coach, she has embraced running as her new athletic pursuit, proving that her competitive fire still burns brightly.

Women's Run: Honoring Women’s Month Through Sport

As part of the International Women’s Month celebration, Women's Run PH brings together women from all backgrounds to embrace strength, endurance, and the unbreakable spirit of female athletes.

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Guerrero’s latest victory is a fitting tribute to Women’s Month, highlighting the resilience, determination, and strength of women in sports. 

A Passion for Running

Guerrero shared how her transition from swimming to running began:

“‘Year 2000, nag-Olympics ako for swimming. Ang event is for breaststroke. It was a good experience. I was 14 years old then, ngayon 40 na ako and retired swimmer. Now I'm a swim coach.”

She explained how she gravitated toward running after retirement:

“Siguro kasi after retiring from swimming, I want to be active pa rin. We don’t want to lose my force. Running is one of the accessible sports out there. Kailangan mo lang ng shoes, may kalsada naman, so talagang madali ang running for everybody.”

Having started running in 2006, Guerrero has been consistently training on her own, finding joy and purpose in the sport.

“I started running mga 2006 pa lang, eh. Na-enjoy ko na. I always ran by myself. And then now nakakatulong siya sa akin.”

Consistency is Key

For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Guerrero emphasizes the importance of discipline and consistency.

“My message is to be consistent. Do what you want to do. When it comes to running, if you want to be consistent, try to run more. Mag-start ka ng two times a week tapos maging three times a week. Then you progress from it.”

Guerrero’s triumph in the 16km Women’s Run is a powerful reminder of what women can achieve when they commit to their goals and embrace their strengths. 

As she continues to inspire athletes and enthusiasts alike, her story serves as a call to action for women everywhere—to embrace their passions, push their limits, and celebrate the boundless potential they hold.

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