OVERCOMING life’s trials is one thing, but jumping over hurdles on horseback is a different matter. Meet Lucas Lorenzo, a 21-year-old equestrian who sees obstacles—both in life and on the field—and knows just how to ride them out.
Never did Lucas think that the first time he rode a horse, when he was 2 years old, would point him in the direction of competitive horse racing. Growing up, he spent most of his summers at the Del Monte plantation in Bukidnon, which gave him the opportunity to participate in bronco rodeos.
When he was 9, he started proper riding lessons and, despite his young age, began joining several riding competitions.
However, when he entered Ateneo de Manila University to take a management course, Lucas had to take some time off from riding and focus on his studies.
Back on the saddle
Now that he has overcome that challenge and is graduating from college, Lucas is back on the saddle—ready to conquer the world of horseback riding again. He joined his first competition in Sweden last January. His biggest goal is to make it to the Philippine team in the 2016 Rio Olympics.
To get into proper shape for the qualifiers in August, Lucas is flying straight to Germany after graduation to begin more rigorous training.
As the grandson of Moro Lorenzo—a basketball star who was in the legendary Philippine team that took home the gold medal in the 1951 Asian Games—athletics is really in Lucas’ blood. Apart from horseback riding, Lucas also enjoys powerlifting and bodybuilding.
When he was 17, he won second place in the World Powerlifting Championships. Last year, he placed seventh in the Men’s Physique (Bodybuilding) division of the Arnold Sports Festival, an annual international multidisciplinary sports convention named after action star Arnold Schwarzenegger.
With an incredible future ahead of him, Lucas Lorenzo will surely make waves for himself and for the country, no matter what hurdles stand in his way.
Photography Toff Tiozon
Styling Luis Carlo San Juan
Makeup and hairstyle Jet Babas
Visit us on Instagram 2bUltimate; Facebook: 2bU; e-mail 2bu.lifestyle.inquirer@gmail.com