Condura Skyway Marathon 2011

Bigger, better Condura Skyway Marathon set.

The Condura Skyway Marathon 2011, Run for the Dolphins kicks off February 6, 2011 with a new look, new-concept and a new category added to spice up action in the event tipped to draw a record field.

In fact, the upcoming event has been re-branded from Condura Run to Condura Skyway Marathon as part of the organizer's effort to line up the race as a premier marathon event in the Asia-Pacific region in 2012. "With re-branding comes a lot of improvements that will benefit our runners" said Ton Concepcion. The D-tag timing system used in the New York City Marathon will be utilized in this race.
To accommodate the big number of entries, organizers have set two starting lines on Ayala Avenue and at the Bonifacio Global City with the finish line at BGC. Runners will also be provided with a special edition dri-fit technical t-shirts with the 16k event to be introduced next year. For the first time, the 10k and 16k runners, along with those competing in the half-marathon, will get a taste of running the skyway through a point-to-point course that starts at Ayala Avenue and ends at Bonifacio Global City. With the extension of the skyway, the full marathoners will now be able to run from BGC to Sucat and back. Other events on tap are the 3k and 5k inside BGC.

E-registration is ongoing at Greenbelt 3 in front of Asics store. Deadline for list up is on January 31, 2011. Online registration closes on January 22, 2011. For details and online list up;
visit www.conduraskywaymarathon.com.

Twelve reasons why you should run in the Condura Skyway Marathon.

1. Run for the dolphins.
2. Every runner gets a medal.
3. Special edition dolphin shirt.
4. D-tag technology.
5. Breakthrough e-reg system.
6. 16k new race category.
7. First 10k on the skyway.
8. New 21k route.
9. Run the new extended skyway.
10. Fun route for the 3k and 5k runners around BGC.
11. 2 starts, 1 finish.
12. Lots of freebies and giveaways.

I have done the last two editions of this race and I treasured it. View my recent posts here, here and here. The view from the skyway is exhilarating and I can't imagine running above cars. Lace your shoes and start training now. This is the best time to experience the joy of running high.

Another Bite At The Dust

Without much plan in running after the bdm 2010 ultramarathon race, I was satisfied with doing one more full marathon distance before the year ends. My last was during the condura marathon last february which was incorporated in my training for the bdm that resulted in ala-lsd pace race. I even skipped the milo marathons qualifying race to give myself a break from the bdm last summer. It was my prerogative not to commit myself in running long distances if I didn't have ample training.

It was cold outside when we arrived at the qc memorial circle for the 2nd qcim. Last year was a run with xty on her full marathon debut (read here); but this time the road will be just mine because she just intended to do the pikermi distance. I knew I had to slowly bounce back from my old shape and get better from our last year's 4h36m finish time and from condura's 4h30m. I came early to this race with a planned 4h15m finish time, just to feel once again the competition that the marathon brings.

Steve walks warily down the street

with his brim pulled way down low

ain't no sound but the sound on his feet

machine guns ready to go.

Are you ready, hey, are you ready for this

are you hanging on the edge of your seat

out of the doorway the bullets rip

to the sound of the beat, yeah.

I started in a relatively conservative pace after the gun was fired. From the middle of the pack I trod slowly increasing my pace little by little. I moved on loosely together with hundreds of runners, veterans and newbies, with me sharing the road. I reached km10 faster than my goal pace and was surprised that my rhythm was still fine, I guess it was the taper that matter. From there I decided that I will shoot for a sub-4 hour finish. Running the car-less section of commonwealth avenue was a bliss, add up the cool weather, it was an enjoyable race. The sight at the la mesa ecopark was breath taking, the tree-lined asphalt route, the fresh air amidst the rolling terrain was an unforgettable experience. I wish there are more of this in the metropolis for us to enjoy running most.

On my way back, it was the grandeur of the state university that greeted me this time. There were joggers circling the acad oval doing their usual early sunday routine. Many could attest that upd is a haven for runners, an ideal training ground. As I exited university avenue and headed to katipunan for the last turn around point, I prepared myself for the last grind. It was here where the last killer uphills emerged and the remaining 4 kilometers to finish line. I was able to pass this segment just in time to finish my race at 3h55m.

How do you think I'm going to get along

without you when you're gone

you took me for everything that I had

and kicked me out on my own.

I was pretty satisfied with the outcome of this race since I was able to break again the barrier that was under 4 hours. I finished strong wanting to do again another marathon. I knew it was the pre determined route that gave me an advantage in this race having ran it last year. Familiarity of the course is a big factor in running long distances, dictating you where to go fast and where to slow down. My experiences in running marathons were also an added bonus, including the tricks on how to do it, the drafting, the hydration, the nutrition, the pacing, and yes, the walks. But I guess the most important thing in marathoning is the training, don't go without it.

Are you happy, are you satisfied

how long can you stand the heat

out of the doorway the bullets rip

to the sound of the beat, look out.

Another one bites the dust

another one bites the dust

and another one gone
another one gone

another one bites the dust

hey, I'm gonna get you too

another one bites the dust.

See you on the roads, this runner needs more serious runnings to make. Good luck to all the milo finalists, I hope to join you again next time. And ouch, I'll miss you at the carbo-loading party.

Photos here.

Finishline In Motion: Road X Trail

Venue:
Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna

Contact:
Finishline website (www.finishline.ph) and contact number 570-8330

Registration Details:
1. Cycling: November 15 to December 8, 2010
2. Duathlon & Running: November 15 to December 15, 2010
3. Race Kit Redemption (Duathlon & Cycling): December 6 to 10, 2010
4. Registration Sites:

• Pasig - All Terra Bikeshop, Secondwind, GNC Megamall
• Quezon City - GNC Trinoma, All Terra Libis
• Makati - Runnr, GNC Glorietta 4
• Sta. Rosa - Sabak Bikeshop, Nuvali Evoliving Center (weekends)
• San Pablo - Green Planet Bikeshop

Event Date & Distance:

1. Cycling - December 11, 2010

a. Timed Fun Ride

• Fit - 20km
• Active - 10km
• Youth (8-11 years old) - 10km
• Kids ( 8-11 years old) - 6km

b. Circuit: Road Criterium (Time+Laps)

• Fit (40min+4laps) - 2km single lap distance
• Active (20min+2laps) - 2km single lap distance

c. Circuit: Dirt Criterium (Time+Laps)

• Fit (40min+4laps) - 2km single lap distance
• Active (20min+2laps) - 2km single lap distance

2. Running - December 18, 2010

a. Road

• 10mile - 16km run
• 5mile- 8km run
• Active - 5km run
• Starting - 3km run
• Kids ( 8-11 years old) - 1km

b. Trail

• 10mile - 16km run
• 5mile- 8km run

3. Duathlon: December 19, 2010

a. Road Duathlon

• Fit - 3km run/ 20km bike/ 3km run
• Active - 1.5km run/ 12km bike/ 1.5km run
• Youth (12-15 years old) - 1.5km run/ 12km bike/ 1.5km run
• Kids ( 8-11 years old) - 500m run/ 6km bike/ 500km run

b. Trail Duathlon

• Fit - 5km run/ 30km bike/ 5km run
• Active - 3km run/ 15km bike/ 3km run

Sponsors:

1. Venue Partner: Nuvali
2. Media Partners: Lifestyle Network, Velvet, MYX, Balls
3. Beverage Sponsors: 100 Plus, Cummit Water
4. Minor Sponsors: All Terra, Runnr, GNC

Another Try At The Ultra Distance

It was about four days to go when I get myself to register for the upcoming ultra race. The venue is the cool, high-altitude vicinity of Tagaytay more than 50km from Manila. I haven't been in races for the longest time, my last was the complimentary rexona run on August 2010, and the desire to participate in this race was practically high.

Having minimal mileage made me think, not just twice, in entering the race. Fifty, ultra kilometer is not a walk-in-the-park, it is a highly respectable distance where only a few dare run. Barely five weeks before, I started training by increasing my mileage, doing back-to-back weekend long runs, just like what I did in my last bdm 102 preparations. Ultra races needs ultra training and it took me about three weeks to get myself back into it again. It was inside this training program too where I reached my 6,000th kilometer.

People's Park, Tagaytay City
3:00 am

Two hours before gun start, we were already at the starting point, the cool and windy people's park. The route will traverse the national highway going to Nasugbu, Batangas. The first 15km was an uphill section with the view of the majestic taal lake and volcano on the left side. The sun slowly showed its way up glittering the waters of the lake as I made my way through it. I was on an easy pace, as relaxed as I wanted it to be. Support crew were lined on either side of the road as they wait for their runners and to take a glimpse of the beautiful scenery. It was after km.10 when I increased my pace and shifted to my planned marathon pace where I sustained until km.35.

Tagaytay-Nasugbu Boundary Marker
7:00 am

In about two hours I reached the cool and foggy place where the Tagaytay-Nasugbu boundary marker is; shortly we were greeted by the race director handing out race band, food and ice-cold water. Fine weather, downhills and cool winds helped a lot in my running but not until I felt the seemingly baking heat of the sun. Although shade of trees along the winding road provided some respite, huge buses coming toward each runner added some difficulties in maneuvering the rolling and winding road. Most of the time I ran alone at this section; in ultramarathoning one practice one must learn is to run alone. The long and vast distance do not compromise of having someone to run with.

Palico Junction, Nasugbu
9:00 am

Ten kilometers to finish line, the sun was shining hot, my pace went down from tempo, and walking was inevitable. I found comfort running in the company of ultra-runner friends who caught me at this section. Together we braved the last portion of the route exchanging stories and plans (believe it or not) for the upcoming bdm 151. At the junction of Lian and Nasugbu, some 3km to finish line, we parted ways and ran on each own. After empty bottles of hydration, food, sun block and three full rosary prayers, at 10:30 am, I was receiving my PAU T2N trophy at the town plaza.

More photos here.

Haile on the 2010 NYC Marathon

Haile Gebrselassie, the greatest all-round distance runner in history, said farewell to the sport he has so obviously loved and has served with such brilliance in action, and such grace in his personal conduct and manner. Gebrselassie had an MRI done on his right knee yesterday. It showed fluid build-up. Gebrselassie ran with the lead pack until stopping at 16 miles, on the Queensboro Bridge.

He spoke for two or three minutes with increasing emotion, finally wiping tears away. It took several moments for the media to grasp that he had announced his retirement.

Someone said, "Are you saying that you are retiring?"

"Yes," Geb said simply.

Read here for more.

Source:
The Emperor Cedes His Crown
Posted by ScottDouglasRT at 11/07/2010 2:42 PM
By Roger Robinson, Running Times

Corregidor International Half-Marathon

The Corregidor International Half-Marathon is aimed to become one of the premiere and much-awaited races in the country. It wll be hekd annually in the historic and scenic Corregidor Island on a December weekend, making it thus the final major race of the year. This year, it is set to fire-off on December 19.

This will be an extraordinary opportunity for passionate runners to set new norm for personal achievement as finishing the race will be akin to recapitulating a fortress that is home to the resilient and valiant.

Given that the size of participation will be limited to not more than 800 runners, it will be positioned to attract mainly serious runners, recreational and elite level athletes alike, who have the most likelihood of being opinion-leaders or well-associated in the running community.

All these factors are intended to put premium on Corregidor International Half-Marathon, which is to become, eventually, the most sought-after major race in the country.


Registration Period:

• All weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) of October and November

Registration Venues:

1. Runnr, BHS, The Fort
   (every Saturday and Sunday, 2pm to 9pm)
2. Second Wind, Maginhawa
   (every Saturday, 1pm to 6pm)
3. Second Wind, Ortigas Home Depot
   (every Saturday, 1pm to 6pm)
   

Online Registration Facility:

• Open to participants residing abroad and outside Metro Manila
• Site will be up on Oct 9

Registration Fee:

• P2,500.00 – until October (regular registration)
• P3,000.00 – until November (late registration)

Race Registration Requirements:

1. Properly filled out registration form – may be downloaded/available at the registration site
2. Any valid ID (driver’s licence, sss, voter’s, postal, passport, etc.) indicating date of birth
3. Applicable registration fee and any of the following:

• Proof of participation in a 10k race (during the last 2 months prior to registration)
• Proof of participation in a 21k race (during the last 3 months prior to registration)
• Proof of participation in a full marathon (during the last 6 months prior to registration)
• A doctor’s certification of fitness to participate in an athletic event
• * For proof of race participation, a printout of the particular race result is preferable. In lieu of that, race bib will be accepted but will be subject to verification through the race results available on-line.

Race Registration Procedures:

1. After completing registration for the race (manual or on-line), beginning the following Monday, contact Sun Cruises at 8346857/8346858/5275555 loc 4511 0r 4512.
2. Indicate the desired trip schedule:
   a. overnight
   
   • departure on Dec 18 @ 8:30am
   • return trip to Manila is on Dec 19 via 2:30pm trip from Corregidor*
   b. day trip
   
   • departure on Dec 19 @ 5:30am
   • return trip to Manila is Dec 19 via 5:30pm trip from Corregidor*
   c. participants with non-competing companions
   
   • non-competing companions will have to pay Php2,000.00/person
   • no race pack will be provided to non-competing companions
   • will have to take the Dec 18, 11:30am trip to Corregidor
   • return trip to Manila is on Dec 20, Monday, via 10:00am trip from Corregidor.
   • *for options a and b, indicate if attending the Solidarity & Victory Party on the night of December 19 to amend departure schedule to Monday, Dec. 20 via 10:00am trip from Corregidor.
3. If applicable, make accommodations reservation with Sun Cruises
   
   • only registered participants will be given reservations
   • pay the appropriate accommodations booking amount through the payment mode advised by Sun Cruises
4. On Dec 4 or 11 (as advised through email and text by the organizers) at ROX,
   
   • attend the runners’ briefing
   • pick-up the race pack and
   • claim the boarding pass and/or accommodations booking ticket from Sun Cruises
   • make sure to bring the acknowledgement receipt issued during registration. No Acknowledgement Receipt, No Race Pack.

Race Pack Inclusions:

• round trip ferry to and from Corregidor
• full lunch buffet on race day
• race bib with RFID timing chip
• race shirt

The Corregidor Race Test Run

Run Fit, Drive Fit: The 4th Auto Review Run

Head-out on 5am September 25 at Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.

The theme of this year’s event is “Run Fit, Drive Fit,” underscoring the direct relationship between good health and good driving. Those who live healthy, active lives are often the most alert, aware drivers with fast reflexes. They are the motorists who are less prone to accidents and quick to adapt to the rigors and conditions of local driving.

The glass plate above was a freebie during my participation in the 2007 edition.

Sixteen Weeks

Last year, it was sixteen weeks of training on her full marathon.

This year, it's another sixteen weeks of training for a different one.

The Mile Long Barracks

Run back to history.

Coming Soon.

Runner's World PH September Issue

Find the right running shoes for you.

Every runner is different and has unique needs when it comes to footwear. The good news is running shoes come in a wide variety of shapes and styles to suit the different kinds of runners, but what kind is right for you? This September, Runner's World magazine Philippines made your search easier with its Shoe Buyer's Guide.

It is so important to know what shoes to choose because the right pair can prevent injury, maximize your performance, and make running enjoyable and pain-free. Do you need a stability shoe, a motion-control shoe, or a cushioned shoe? Real runners road-test the shoes we have in the market today and recommend which foot type goes with which pair of shoes. Runner's World also lets you in on what footwear should feel like on your feet to guide you as you choose your new pair of shoes.

The September issue of Runner's World also helps runners step up their training with different sets of workouts for veterans and amateurs alike - all in only six weeks. These workouts, although meant for short-distance races, can actually also prepare runners for marathons and improve their overall performance in long runs.

Want to know how fit you are? Take the battery of nine tests we have in this month's issue that measure your flexibility, balance, joint mobility, speed, endurance, and cardiovascular strength. The September issue is also packed with healthy food choices for runners, tips on treating common foot problems and tricks to avoid running injuries.

The Dynamic Duo featured on the Human Race section is a must read. Look closely if you could spot run unltd. in this section.

The latest issue of Runner's World with actress, TV host, and runner Iza Calzado on the cover is available exclusively with every copy of Men's Health and Wonen's Health this September. Follow Runner's World on facebook (www.facebook.com/runnersworld.ph) and on twitter (www.twitter.com/RunnersWorldPH).

The Launch Of The QCIM 2010

The Quezon City International Marathon is envisioned to become one of the Philippines' biggest sports event. The marathon will be the culminating event of a week-long series of activities showcasing the Quezon City as one of the country's best places to work in, to play in and to reside in.

The QC Govt. and Runnex Phils. are once again the main proponents

Eighty percent of last year's route will again be used and will include some of the most important government, business, education and entertainment centers in QC. The QCIM will be different from other marathons held in the country because it will also serve as a travelogue of the city founded by and named after the first president of the Philippine Commonwealth. It will also showcase Quezon City as the Asian City of the future and its partner entities in boosting tourism investments. It will be supportive of Quezon City's program for wellness, environmental protection, sustainability and tourism.

Runnex Philippines together with Neville Manaois as technical race director will join hands in executing the new edition of the QCIM.

Better start training now, it's still a good sixteen-week of fun and hardwork until the next QCIM. See you at the starting line.

The Imperative Of A Running Journal

For the first half of the year I logged in a total distance of 1,039.20 kilometers with a time of 119:54 hours. The peak of which was derived from my trainings for the 2010 BDM ultramarathon earlier in the year. The first three months were somewhat exceptional. I registered a mileage of 336km in January, 253km in February, and 154km in March where the ultramarathon was held. But at the fourth month onwards the decline was evident as I just gathered an average of 74km per month, managing just 296km for the last four months, just slightly above my Feb total.

In 2009, my first half mileage was 1,284km. The months of April to July averaged 185km per month with a total of 739km or about 60% more than my totals to date. I also did two full marathons at these dates as against nil of this year. Furthermore, a total of 10 races were joined during 2009 compared to just 6 of this year, majority of which are 5k's.

Why the decline? After the last 102km ultramarathon, I cut back on my running and concentrate on recovering my lost weight during the BDM saga. Diet is utmost at this time and I just contend myself to running 5km and limit my time to 30mins. Seldom I ran longer than this.

After reviewing my workout log, I found out that I'm in a deficit with respect to my performances from last year. I must get back into running to bring back those mileage left behind. This is one of the benefit of compiling a running journal, to map your training destinations and to track your progress along the way. I have no regrets in doing this, it's already a religious practice after my every run since I started my running. Somebody once said, "If you do not know where you're going, how can you expect to get there?" Silly, but there's truth in here. See you then friends, I have more works to be done, burning rubber best said. My log says I still have 1,183.10 kilometers to run, 98 hours to beat and 108 workouts to be done just to equal my accomplishments of 2009.

By the way the figure under the adidas logo is my total accumulated distance since I started serious running and recording mileage in particular; and one friendly advice to every newbie is to come up and start with your own journal now.

Timeless Running

My early running was documented by a free watch I got from a famous potato snack. She was with me during my jogs at the qc circle and up diliman and in some races that I participated. After months of usage and a handful of races, she succumbed to exhaustion and eventually died. I've no idea then where she could be revived. Although she lacks in features and aesthetics (no stop watch, I only take the difference between my finish time and start time), she wrote my very first pr in running.

So as not to hamper my new-found passion, I bought a new, more advanced watch, a chronograph one, with more functions than my previous one. Cassey, as I called her, ignited my desire to run more and conquer what was improbable at that time. She did eight full marathons and a couple of ultra marathons. She was also instrumental in breaking old records and rewriting new ones, and with her I had my best times (literally) in running. But just like my old one, she also signed off.

my old reliable and cassey faded away

After Cassey's demise, I was left with nothing. I ran two or three races without the company of these gadgets and just relied my time on the clock dangling at the finish line. I have had my training runs without one and just peep at the arms of my running buddies for reference. Nowadays, I could feel a downturn in my runs; just a 5km weekday run and a 10km sunday run is almost the regular thing. Swerte na 'pag naka 20km per week. But the lowdown is not because of the absence of those gadgets and the likes, I could practically run without them. Family obligations keep me off my time in the mornings, and the late afternoons are somewhat pre-occupied with a different thing. Nevertheless, the desire to run is still there, very much.

But since I'm documenting all my progress in my runs, distance & time being the most essential, I sought of a replacement for Cassey. The new one is not an ultra modern techie thing, but is also a chronograph one with added features, which I feel could still help me in any way. I hope this thing will bring back the desire to run more mileage, even if I opt to run in my chosen playgrounds as I shy away from races that demand higher fees every time.

See you on the roads.

The Austerity Of Small Races

"Where have all these races gone, long time passing. Where have all these races gone, a long, long time ago." These are the words echoing on me when I went home after joining the nutribar hip2b fit run at the up diliman grounds. The race was so simple yet entertaining as the pictures below clearly define it.

Races nowadays are branded as hip and ultra-modern with the advancement of technologies. With the advent of video walls, steel-rigged stages, vast venue, timing chips, celebrities and massive attendance; I could say that the recent nutribar race is way behind the trend. But the staging, the silence and the attendance is simply awesome. The implementation is well above par. There were no chaos, no dilly-dally, no deafening sound, a scene associated with huge races, but participants were treated to a fine event on that cool sunday morning. The calm atmosphere at the place is the ideal.

It's been a long while since I had the opportunity to attend these kind of races. The year was 2006 and 2007; the yakult run, the intramuros great wall run, the auto review run were fine examples, where people find time to relax and mingle after the grueling run. Runners of different kind converge in a small area to celebrate what was a big accomplishment for that day. Runners come and go with smiles in their faces. The opportunity to make friends is broad.

This is the kind of race that I was searching for a long time, a race atypical to where I started. And, oh, if whining occurs here, I may hang-up my laces.

The 34th Milo Marathon Eliminations

The Manila elimination leg of the 34th milo marathon once again highlighted the triumph of the seasoned marathoners. The men were again separated from the boys. These fine gentlemen always put their milo races at high level. Milo is the equivalent of the Boston marathons for them. You know milo marathon very well if you know the real goal behind it.

While there's an on-going inquiries and hate, left and right, regarding those who cheated in the race, I personally put my emphasis on the profiles of these milo marathoners, who made their way to the finals on December 12, 2010. Rather than spending some time dealing with the identities of those so called cheaters, these people deserve more of the noise created at the recent milo marathon and all the credit as well. Mabuhay po kayo, kita kits ulit tayo (sa finals).

These are just a few, many still deserve.

More pics at my multiply account.

Photos were provided side by side. 2009 finals x 2010 elims.

Names are available at the results of the 2009 & 2010 milo marathons.

Pacing The Milo Marathon Distance

A pacemaker or pace-setter; (wikipedia) sometimes colloquially called a rabbit, is a runner who leads a middle- or long distance running event for the first section to ensure a fast time and avoid excessive tactical racing. Pacemakers are frequently employed by race organisers for world record attempts with specific instructions for lap times. Some athletes have become essentially professional pacemakers. A competitor who chooses the tactic of leading in order to win is called a front-runner rather than a pacemaker.

Pacemakers may be used to avoid the tactics of deception that are possible in competition by those who, for example, race away from the start line (and are likely to subsequently slow down), giving the other runners the impression that they are far behind. A trusted team of pacemakers who are paid to keep the runner at a speed that they can manage for the rest of the race become useful in such a situation. Pacemakers are also used on world record attempts in order to make sure that the runner knows where their invisible 'opponent' predecessor is at that stage of the race. Pacemakers serve the role of conveying tangible information about pacing on the track during a race.

If you're goal is to cross the finish line within the specific qualifying time of the milo marathon, these people will be of great help. Draft-off with one of them and have the guts to wreak havoc on the road, surely this will be a lung-busting, adrenalin-pumping ride. Whew! I already ran with everyone of them, at kumain ako ng alikabok, but running with them was one hell of an experience for me. Try it too and be a prestigious member of the milo marathon qualifiers.

Good luck and look for them at the starting line.

The Rexona Run 2010

What makes a man go the extra mile? Is it the lure of triumphantly crossing the finish line? Or is it the knowledge that each step he takes, each kilometer he completes may change the landscape of sports development among today's youth?

Rexona Men challenges runners to go the distance at the first Rexona Run slated on August 1, 2010 at the SM Mall of Asia grounds to help motivate the love of an excellence in sports among children.

Aside from supporting a worthy cause, runners can expect something new at the Rexona Run. For starters, runners - beginners and enthusiasts alike - will test their mettle on the 3K, 5K, 10K or 21K flat course - the first time that a new route will be used on the SM MOA grounds. This new route will bring runners through the Marina of the famous Manila Bay.

Another first is the use of the D-Tag, a disposable timing chip as used in the much celebrated New York City marathon. The D-Tag is lighter and more accurate than most timing devices and is simply attached to the runner's shoe. Time is recorded via Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology each time a runner crosses time check points eliminating long lines and waiting periods. The disposable tag also eliminates queuing after the race to return the chips.

Registration begins June 28 until July 19 at the following Times stores: SM Mall of Asia, SM North Edsa, SM Southmall, SM Megamall, Glorietta and at R.O.X. Runrio brings another innovation to the registration process by making use of an iPad at each registration booth to capture the registrants details and immediately upload it to their database.

Registration is also available online at www.runrio.com. Details of the event will also be posted on Sports Fan Center on facebook, the fan page of Rexona Men Sport Defence, the brand's latest variant designated for the sports fan.

Fees are at P400 (3K), P600 (5K), P600 (10K) and P750 (21K). Race kits will be given to participants upon registration including a singlet, bib, D-Tag, and a 150mL Rexona aerosol.

For more information, please call the secretariat at (02) 703-1736.

Fathers Were Sons

Henry James once defined life as that predicament which precedes death, and certainly nobody owes you a debt of honor or gratitude for getting him into that predicament. But a child does owe his father a debt, if Dad, having gotten him into this peck of trouble, takes off his coat and buckles down to the job of showing his son how best to crash through it.

Sherman made the terrible discovery that men make about their fathers sooner or later... that the man before him was not an aging father but a boy, a boy much like himself, a boy who grew up and had a child of his own and, as best he could, out of a sense of duty and, perhaps love, adopted a role called being a father so that his child would have something mythical and infinitely important: a protector, who would keep a lid on all the chaotic and catastrophic possibilities of life.

Dad, you're someone to look up to no matter how tall I've grown. Your guiding hand on my shoulder will remain with me forever.

Happy father's day.

Run Run For Children's Fun 2

PTAA again presents it's second hosting of the Run Run For Children's Fun 2 at the Mall of Asia on June 20, 2010. This will be a 3K, 5K and 10K fun run event.

Who Can Join:

1. The Fun run is open to PTAA Members & Non-PTAA Members.

2. The Fun run is divided into the following categories:

• Men's Category, 3K, 5K, 10K
• Women's Category, 3K, 5K, 10K
• PTAA Members' Category, 3K, 5K, 10K

3. Participating minors should have their parent or guardian sign the waiver form in the registration form.

How To Join:

1. To join the fun run, a participant should register prior to the event by filling up an entry form that can be obtained through the following centers/outlets:

• PTAA Office : 12/F EGI Rufino Plaza Taft cor. Gil Puyat Ave. Pasay
• All Terra Cyclery : Club 650, C-5 Road, Libis (next to Shopwise)
• Secondwind Running Store : Maginhawa St., Teacher's Village | Ortigas Home Depot
• The Travel Club : Trinoma | Rockwell | Greenbelt 3 | Alabang Town Center | MOA
• Registration may also be downloaded from
  http://run4change.com/
  http://www.takbo.ph
  http://www.ptaa.org.ph

2. Participants shall pay a registration fee of P400 (3K/5K/10K). Registration fee is inclusive of donation to GK Bagong Silang.

3. Race kits will be released upon payment. The race kits include race number, race map, pins. Singlets will be distributed on-site after the race.

Online Reservation and Bank Deposit:

1. Reserve online by emailing mike@ptaa.org.ph your scanned registration forms.

2. Fax or send through email the deposit slip.

3. Wait for confirmation, or email mike@ptaa.org.ph.

• Bank details: Banco de Oro (BDO) – Leveriza Branch
• Account Name: PTAA
  S/A No.: 262-0021916
  Fax: 552-0029/30, Tel. No.: 552-0027/28

Race Proper:

1. Assembly / check-in shall be at 5:15am at SM Mall of Asia

2. The race will fire off promptly at:

• 10K – 6:00AM
• 5K – 6:05 AM
• 3K – 6:10 AM

Team Woman Run

What a better way to celebrate a woman's strength than with an all-woman run?

Gather together your sisters and friends to form a team of three or four individuals, and be part of this year's Woman Team Run. Woman Team Run is an all-woman team relay for females. This exciting event will be held on June 27, 2010 at the Venice Piazza Mall, McKinley Hill.

Each team will run a combined distance of 21K. The first runner will run a distance of 10K, the second runner will run 5K, the third runner will run 3K, and the fourth (or first) runner will run another 3K. There will also be a 5K individual run category.

Of course, it is a given that women love to be fashionable. A Best in Costume Award will be awarded to the team who adds the most flair to their running outfits. Criteria will be made up of originality, creativity, use of Team Woman singlet, and overall impact.

A lot of things are expected of today's woman. Woman by Lactacyd understands the needs of a woman with an active lifestyle. As its tagline goes, only Woman Knows a Woman, made to keep up with you.

At the end of the race, a team composed entirely of women will be chosen to become ambassadors of Woman by Lactacyd. Currently, Leica Carpo, Amanda Carpo, Chesca Carpo and Bea Locsin are the strong, athletic women who wave Woman by Lactacyd's flag. These veteran runners will hold free running clinics on May 30, June 6 and June 13.

Woman Team run participants will enjoy lots of fun giveaways. The first 100 teams to complete the relay will each receive free pouches from Beauty Bar and gift certificates worth P75 from David's Salon.

Team registration fee is P1,500, inclusive of a limited edition Team Woman by Lactacyd singlet for all team members. Registration fee for the individual run category is P600. Avail of a discounted fee of only P450 with proof of purchase.

Register online at www.teamwomanrun.com from May 15 to June 20, 2010. Major credit cards are accepted for online registration. For cash registration, visit TIMEX in SM Mall of Asia, SM Southmall and SM North Edsa, or at RUNNR in Bonifacio High Street. Cash registration runs from May 15 to June 24, 2010.

Team Woman Run is brought to you by Woman by Lactacyd. Sponsors for this event are 100 plus, Alaska Slim, Beauty Bar, Blue Water Day Spa, David's Salon, Dole, Nature Valley, Summit Mineral Water, Timex and Wilson Standard Everlast. Media partners for this event are Multisport, Runnerspeak, and Women's Health. Special thanks to registration partner Runnr and venue partner The Venice Piazza Hall at McKinley Hill. This event is organized by Eventking Corp.

For more information, email secretariat@teamwomanrun.com.

May Winnings

May had been a fruitful month to Xty because she visited the podium three times. After aborting her training for the upcoming milo manila leg, supposedly her 2nd full marathon event, she concentrated in just doing short-distance races. With just a day of training during weekdays (we were at runners low due to excessive humidity), she still managed to find her rhythm during races and eventually won runner-ups on three of the four races that she joined. She said she never run fast, it was just pure luck that the competition is not that tough. But I believe, there's something in her that I and many other people don't have; we were both runners, but she's a born winner. See related story here. "The month of may is really good to me, after winning on my first, the second and the third followed. Three is a charm indeed." she said.

Xty with the Runners Plus Officers after
winning 3rd place at the Run for the Blind.

Xty receiving her 2nd place award from
Art Disini at the Runnex Executive Series.

Xty with Bo Sanchez shortly before receiving
her 3rd place winning at the Kerygma Fun Raiser.

The Nature Valley Race Traffic Advisory

Three days to go before the Nature Valley Run. All participants are encouraged to arrive at the race venue before 5:00 a.m. so that they can conveniently leave their cars at the parking lots provided near the starting line and avoid missing the gun start.

On May 30, 2010, certain roads within the Bonifacio Global City will be closed from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. to make way for the 2010 Nature Valley Run. Please expect heavy traffic. View the Traffic Advisory map below to see more details.

K for K: The Kerygma 2010 Fun Raiser

A new race is happening on May 29, 2010 at 5:30 am. K for K, the Kerygma Fun Raiser, is a charitable event for the benefit of charitable organizations under Bro. Bo Sanchez. There will be a 100-m dash for kids below 9, and those from 9 to 12 years old. The regular event includes a 1Km, 3Km, and a 5Km run. Registration fee is Php100 for the kid's event and Php250 for the regular event.

Head out and join the K for K Fun Raiser at the Mall of Asia grounds and make this day a family affair. Bring out the entire family and join the event and have the opportunity to meet the fascinating people behind the Kerygma and Didache Journals. Let's run closer to God, let's run for those who are in need.

Registration Procedures:

1. Fill up the registration form. You may download a registration form by clicking the "Download Form" link on the site.
2. K for K fun raiser packets will be available for pick-up upon paying the registration fee starting April 25, 2010.
3. Pay your registration fee at the following sites:

• 2/F Lighthouse, Chicago Street, Cubao, Quezon City from Monday to Friday (9am - 6pm)
• Lobby, Valle Verde Country Club, Country Club Road, Pasig City every Sunday (8am - 2pm)

Rules & Regulations:

1. Registration is non-transferable and non-refundable.
2. Participants below 18 years old must have their entry signed by a parent/guardian.
3. K for K is a non-timed event except for the 3 top placers for the regular run for both men and women.
4. The K for K fun raiser will take place rain or shine.
5. Race numbers will be worn at all times during the race, pinned at the front of your shirt.
6. All protests related to the results shall be shall be submitted in writing to the race organizer within 30 minutes after the official announcement of winners.
7. The organizer's decision is final.

Important Details:

1. The K for K fun raiser packet contains the race number, K for K shirt (for the regular run), certificate and sponsor freebies.
2. Drinking water will be provided at selected points along the race route. the first aid station will be near the starting area and at certain points of the route through roving representatives.
3. Toilet cubicles will be available at the site during the race.
4. Baggage deposit service is available near the stage from 4:30am until 9:00am.

Read on the FAQ here for more information.

In The Company of the Rain

I have been missing this moment. Running through the rain. Prodding the wet pavement while the raindrops wash your sweat away. Speed here is unnecessary, but the fun is overwhelming. Although it's difficult to plug-in one's favorite i-Pod, humming-out is a liberty. This is the perfect time to sing Coldplay's "Why Does It Always Rain On Me", or Eurythmics "Here Comes The Rain Again". Kailan kaya ulit bubuhos ang ulan? I could feel that after this sweltering heat, the rain will eventually come.

Classes will start in a few days and Milo Marathon is just around the corner. These events are evident to the looming rainy season.

See you at the starting line, wet and drenched.

All Roads Lead to Pagudpud

The beautiful north, home to historical events and patriotic acts. Come August 2010, another event will be written on its pages. Here, let me take you to the jewel of the north, the magnificent scenery to belong with, the warm people, the whistling wind; the fascinating route to be conquered. This is just a teaser, don't be satisfied by just mere viewing, run through it.

The long stretch of undulating road with the view of the
South China Sea. Where salt is plenty and grilled tunas are inviting.

Beyond this bridge closely resembles nowhere,
blue on the left and green on the right.

Somewhere in this road you could see a Pizarro sari-sari store.
And these people are just a few.

Well shaded road leading to Cape Bojeador,
the century old lighthouse that beacons ships from afar.

The magnificent view of the South China Sea from the lighthouse.
Due to the gusting winds, you could hear the rumbling waves here.

A view from the deck of the old lighthouse.
The road lies within the houses at the upper right corner.

The road continues to Bangui, showcasing its zigzag and
hilly terrain. You could enjoy the solitude under the shades.

A breathtaking view of the Bangui windmills from the
view deck of a famous pit stop.

Trail road to Bangui windmills. If only the vinegars and bunch of
garlic being sold here could supplement the hydration needs.

At the other end is the entry to Pagudpud,
beyond the greens lies the gold.

The ups and downs of getting there. They're just slightly inclined.

All roads lead here.

The golden sunset and the glittering sand, invite you to relax and
rest one's badly beaten self. To enjoy and cherish the feat.

And indulge on this rewarding savory jewel of the far north.

The treasure lies within Baldrunner Events. What are you waiting for, the distance is just a few, but the experience is immeasurable.

More pics from my flickr site here.