Confessions of a triathlon junkie

SHE CONSIDERS herself the female version of costar Derek Ramsay

Jennylyn Mercado admits that she is an addict—that she is hooked on triathlon, specifically.

“It’s a different kind of high,” she says. “Triathlon combines three disciplines: swimming, running and cycling. I feel fulfilled every time I finish each part of the race.”

This November, she is joining two races: Tri United 4 in Subic and the Bataan International Triathlon.

“The main benefits of triathlon are mental [in nature],” Mercado says. “For me, a race is 10-percent physical and 90-percent psychological. If you put it in your mind that you can’t do it, you won’t be able to survive a race. You have to keep your eyes on the finish line.”

The sport has taught her focus and discipline, she says. “That I’ve become thinner is just a bonus.”

It was Mercado’s former “Futbolilits” costar Raymart Santiago who got her into the sport three years ago. “I introduced Jennylyn to my trainer Jojo Macalintal,” Santiago says. “I am glad she is still actively pursuing the sport.”

Reunited

Santiago and Mercado are reunited as screen partners in the new GMA 7 prime time series “Second Chances,” which premieres next month.

Does Mercado believe in “second chances”?

“It really depends on the situation,” she says. “But generally, I believe in second chances … As you mature, you get the opportunity to learn new things. You should always give yourself the chance to grow and improve.”

But will she give her failed romance with ex-boyfriend Dennis Trillo a second try?

She had just recorded a duet (“After All”) with Trillo for her new album “Never Alone,” under GMA Records.

SHE IS training for two races next month.

There were reports that Mercado and Trillo were spotted dining out together. Mercado quickly explains that she and Dennis were accompanied by the entire recording team during that dinner. They finished a studio session and decided to grab a bite.

She is happy that she and Trillo are now cordial, she says.

While a reconciliation with Trillo may be farfetched, will she fall for Derek Ramsay, her leading man in the Metro Manila Film Festival entry “English Only Please”?

“Derek is my male version,” Mercado admits. “He is makulit and athletic, too. We are very much alike.”

Hmmm…

Ramsay echoes Mercado’s sentiments. “I was the one who told her we were like twins. She is my female version. But I cannot do what she does. I can’t finish a triathlon race.”

Double hmmm…

The shoot is a blast, Mercado reports. “We are having a lot of fun on the set. And our director (Dan Villegas) is the type who doesn’t get mad. He is so cool and patient.”

Ring bearer

Mercado recently raised eyebrows when she announced she would attend the wedding of another former flame, Patrick Garcia.

Their son Jazz is the ring bearer in the ceremony, that’s why.

“Jazz is a big boy now,” she says. “He is 6 years old. Kids grow up fast. He no longer likes it when I kiss or carry him. That’s why I cherish every moment while he’s still young. As a mom, I want to be there, to witness every milestone in his life.”