Young Filipino jet ski racer scores gold in WGP World Cup

The Philippine delegation shines at the Water Jet World Cup 2024 in Pattaya, Thailand. The team, which includes Marchael Louie Buhisan, Jesse Arcilla, Kayla Marie Povadora Mercado, Kristine Kate Povadora Mercado, Cody Lorenzo Pontino, Vito Tinio, and Angelo Iñigo A. Ventus, proudly and skillfully represents the country.
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—During the past Christmas season, a moment of Filipino sports glory went unnoticed.

Enzo Pontino struck gold in the WaterJet Grand Prix #1 Jet Ski World Cup last month in Pattaya, Thailand.

Pontino won the first three moto races of the four-leg novice ski stock finale, more than enough to take first place with 233 points, way ahead of silver medalist Vansiden Kay of Cambodia.

“The toughest part was staying consistent throughout the competition. Every race felt like a chance to prove what I’m capable of,” Pontino shared.

At the bigger picture, two more Filipino jet ski racers also did enough in the WGP World Cup to be crowned overall world champs.

Angelo Ventus capped a sensational 2024 by finishing third in the World Cup's novice runabout stock event.

Ventus ruled the WGP World Series legs in Poland and the United States for the novice runabout stock, while he won the WGP Asian Championship in the novice 1100 stock event, effectively making him a triple crown champ.

“The global stage is exhilarating but also incredibly demanding. The key is to adapt to different courses and stay mentally strong,” Angelo said.

Kristine Mercado also took home a triple crown last year in the WGP World Series and capped her overall season championship glory with a fourth-place finish in the World Cup.

“It’s not just about competing—it’s about representing the Philippines and inspiring others,” said Kristine.

Her sister Kayla, who went sixth in the World Cup, finished second overall last season, capping a 1-2 finish not just for the siblings but also for the Philippines.

Kayla said, “Being part of this journey with my sister made the experience even more special.”

The national team to the WGP World Cup included 13-year-old Vito Tinio, who finished fourth in the 13-15 spark stock race, Marchael Buhisan, who finished third in the pro-am 1100 open, and Jesse Arcilla.

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