Manny Pacquiao kicks off training camp
Seven-division titlist Manny Pacquiao has cut the ribbon for his official training camp in Baguio City in light of an upcoming 13 November bout with Antonio Margarito.
The Sarangani province congressman commenced with high-altitude training, running through the city’s Burnham Park. Despite recent reports, he showed no effects of a left foot injury that was reported
after a preliminary workout in Quezon City Friday.
According to reports even marathoner Philip Pacle, preparing for an upcoming race, had troubling keeping pace with Pacquiao, who was up early in the morning for the session.
“He’s really fast,” said Pacle.
Baguio City, 1,500m above sea level, was chosen by Pacquiao’s team for its high altitude and mountainous terrain to build stamina and solid breathing habits.
As usual, Pacquiao-trainer Freddie Roach was in top spirits after seeing his fighter run. “So early in the camp, we already did 10 rounds. We will be 90 per cent done when we leave for the US.”
Pacquiao has been in Baguio City since Sunday. Friday he was taken to the hospital due to a sore left foot. Pacquiao said there was some residual swelling but that he is on medication for the injury
now. He doesn’t expect it to be a problem.
“I’m happy with my training here in Baguio,” Pacquiao said. “So far, so good. The weather was fine.”
Aside from roadwork Pacquiao is expected to begin sparring Thursday with those who have come to the Philippines to assist him—notably Glen Tapia, Michael Medina—and in coming weeks prospects Vanes Martirosyan
and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. Pacquiao has specifically been pitted against bigger, taller fighters to prepare him for the taller Margarito.
Trainer Roach has talked a big game since arriving in the Philippines and seeing Pacquiao train, stating that he will knock Margarito out “inside of eight rounds.”
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