Endurance Weekend Finisher Shirt & Medal

Take a closer look to what's at stake after finishing the Filinvest City Endurance Weekend. Enjoy the training and see you on the coming weekend ahead.

Finisher Shirt

Finisher Medal

Awards and Prizes

RUN

• Top 3 in Overall Men and Women shall be awarded with cash prizes and medals.
• Top 3 per age group shall be awarded/receive medals,

BIKE

• Top 3 in All-Men, Mixed, and Overall Solo categories shall be awarded with cash prizes and medals.
• Top 3 per age group in Solo category shall be awarded/receive medals.

Registration Sites:

The Starting Line Multisport Store
402B Autocluster Bldg. A, Westgate Center, Filinvest City
Muntinlupa
Tel No: 828-7679 

Cycling Zone
Shell Pacific Gas Station, Alabang-Zapote Road, Muntinlupa
809-6763 

Velocipede Bike Shop
Unit B, Royale Place Arcade (Beside Ever Gotesco Commonwealth)
Tel No: 351-8488 

Bike King
Bonifacio High Street
Tel. No: 856-3362 

Secondwind Running Store
88 Malingap Street, Teachers Village QC
Tel No: 238-4005
Unit 3A, Ortigas Home Depot, Julia Vargas, Pasig City
Tel No: 914-0283
Unit GS 107 G-Strip Greenhills Shopping Center, San Juan
Tel No: 945-7850

Rexona Run 2013: Run To Your Beat

Run to Your Beat is the 2013 leg of one of the most anticipated running events every year, the Rexona Run. Now in its fourth year, the Rexona Run is preparing for a different kind of race with Run to Your Beat, the Philippines' first ever multi-sensorial night where live music pushes people to run further and culminates in a party at the finish line.

Sandwich and the Diegos will be at the gun start to pump things up early on. We'll also have the best DJs in Metro Manila to play at the different stations scattered throughout the race track; Deuce Manila, DJ Mia Ayesa, DJ Nina, Funk Avy and DJ Khai. Then party it up at the finish line with your idols who play different beats: Rico Blanco, Elmo Magalona and DJ Mars Miranda.

Race Details:

Race Date: October 20, 2013 at the Mall of Asia Grounds

Race Categories: 5km, 10km, 21km

Registration Fee: 

• PHP600 - 5km
• PHP700 - 10km 
• PHP900 - 21km

Registration Details:

Registration is on-going until October 16, 2013. Online registrations are also accepted on www.runrio.com. For more details visit the Rexona Men Facebook page, or call/text the race hotline at 887-6194, (0917) 347-7700, or (0929) 717-864.

Registration Sites: 

• Riovanna BGC & Katipunan
• Tobys SM MOA & SM North Edsa The Block

Top three finishers in the 21km category include PHP7,000 for first, PHP5,000 second and PHP3,000 for third; top three finishers in the 10km category will receive PHP5,000 for first, PHP4,000 for second and PHP3,000 for third; and top three finishers in the 5km category go home with PHP4,000 for first, PHP3,000 for second and PHP2,000 for third respectively.

Read on the press release from Rexona Run 2013.

From the gun start to the finish line, this year’s Rexona Run promises to push running enthusiasts, professional runners and recreational runners to DO:MORE. 

Mar Corazo, Rexona Brand Manager says, “We are always finding ways to make the Rexona Run more exciting than the last. This year, we wanted the Rexona Run to appeal to more people and inspire them to Do:More.” 

As one of the most sought after races in the Philippines, runners look forward to the Rexona Run every year for its exciting twists, prizes and categories. 

On October 20, 2013 at the Mall of Asia Grounds, be prepared for a different kind of race—the Rexona Run To Your Beat, the Philippines’ first ever multi-sensorial night run where live music pushes people to run further and culminates in a party at the finish line. 

“This was inspired by the insight that when you run to the beat of the music, you run faster, you go further, you’re energized to do more,” said the Rexona Brand Manager. 

From the first gun start at 3AM, live performances will be scattered around the race track, adding a very different take on running. The 5k race will have performances by Delta Street, Sandwich, The Diegos, DJ Mia Ayesa, Deuce Manila and DJ Nina. The 10k race will get the chance to run to Funk Avy and DJ Khai. While the 21k race will see all performances, as well as the finale concert of Rico Blanco, Elmo Magalona and DJ Mars Miranda.  

Coach Rio, Rexona partner and running expert says, “It’s been proven that listening to music unleashes your energy, allowing you to run further.” 

In line with Rexona’s DO: MORE philosophy, Run to Your Beat presents the perfect avenue for all individuals to DO:MORE – whether you’re an avid runner or leisure runner.

Run to Your Beat is also the ultimate test of Rexona’s efficacy because the product keeps you dry and fresh from the start of the race until the end of the party. 

To register, visit Riovanna stores located in Bonifacio Global City and Katipunan, as well as Toby’s outlets in the SM Mall of Asia and SM North Edsa The Block. Online registrations are also accepted on www.runrio.com. Registration is ongoing until October 16, 2013.  

For more details visit the Rexona Men Facebook page, www.runrio.com or call/text the race hotline at 887 6194, +097 347 7700 (Globe), or 0929 717 864 (Smart).

New Running Technologies From Nike

Nike unveil new running technologies and "nature amplified" design ethos.

Four new innovations are designed to enhance the running experience.

NIKE, Inc., the world’s leading running brand, today unveiled four new innovations at an event at the company’s global headquarters in Beaverton, Ore. The new products are designed to enhance runners’ natural abilities and were guided by Nike’s "Nature Amplified" design ethos, an approach that is focused on designing for the body in motion and fueled by scientific data and athlete insights. Two new running shoes were introduced — the Nike Free Flyknit and Nike Free Hyperfeel — along with two new apparel technologies, Aeroloft and Dri-FIT Knit.

“Innovation is not about creating for its own sake, it's about creating something better, designing with a purpose. Running is the heart and soul of Nike and it’s the birthplace of a constant stream of new innovations that will drive the company forward,” said Mark Parker, President & CEO of NIKE, Inc.

Footwear Innovations

• The Nike Free Flyknit is the fusion of two of Nike’s most iconic footwear technologies — the compressive Nike Flyknit upper and the flexible Nike Free outsole. The Nike Free Flyknit upper features zoned performance mapping and a second-skin fit. The shoe provides the benefits of natural motion and a snug, supportive fit in a single shoe.
• Designed to feel like an extension of the body by minimizing layers between the foot and the ground, the Nike Free Hyperfeel delivers a natural motion sensation for the runner. A drop-in insole made from Lunarlon foam allows the foot to have direct contact with Lunarlon cushioning. The ultra-thin waffle outsole uses strategically placed waffle pistons for grip and feel, allowing the foot to get closer to the ground.

Apparel Technologies

• Nike Aeroloft technology also debuted in the ultra-light Nike Aeroloft 800 Vest, designed to keep runners warm and comfortable in cooler conditions. Insulating down has been combined with precision ventilation that allows heat to escape the body so athletes stay dry. 
• Dri-FIT Knit is an ultra-soft, lightweight fabric engineered to help athletes maintain optimal performance temperature in a variety of conditions. The technology employs visibly different knit patterns to aid breathability, while seamless construction ensures a smooth fit free of distraction.

“Nature Amplified means designing for bodies in motion and creating incredible new products that work intuitively with the human body,” said Trevor Edwards, NIKE Brand President. “The footwear and apparel we’ve unveiled today is based on insights from athletes and runners at every level, combined with extensive research in our Sport Research Lab. These innovations are data-driven, but body-led."

Nike Free Flyknit provides compression fit with free flexibility

Second-skin fit and flexible sole deliver smooth, supportive ride for runners

PHILIPPINES, AUGUST 2013—Runners can now reap the benefits of natural motion found in Nike Free and the supportive, second-skin fit of Nike Flyknit in a single shoe. The Nike Free Flyknit unites two of Nike’s most innovative and popular technologies to deliver barefoot-like flexibility and a compression fit that locks the foot in place.

The Nike Free Flyknit is designed to flex with the foot in motion. It is informed by Nike’s "Nature Amplified" design ethos — an approach fueled by scientific data and athlete insights. 

“Nike Free Flyknit is the ultimate expression of natural performance principles, combining a supportive, sock-like upper and a flexible midsole and outsole that move with the body,” says Sean McDowell, Creative Director for Nike Running. “The compression fit brings the foot closer to the sole for enhanced lockdown and propulsion.”

Nike Flyknit Upper

A new, more compressive NIke Flyknit construction in the shoe upper secures the runner’s foot to the shoe platform. The unique zoned performance mapping pattern of the Nike Flyknit upper is derived from insights on how pressure is exerted on the top of the foot. Nike Sport Research Lab scientists employed pressure-mapping technology to locate stress areas, and designers used the data to inform the new upper. Zones on the top of the foot have engineered stretch built to enable natural flex, while a tighter weave at the perimeter stabilizes the forefoot and heel. Additionally, elasticized construction fits securely around the ankle for a comfortable, secure fit. By knitting a one-piece upper, Nike Flyknit construction reduces Nike's typical upper waste by an average of 88 percent. 

Nike Free Flatform

The advanced Nike Flyknit upper sits atop a Nike Free+ 5.0 midsole, which lies in the middle of the Nike Free spectrum, providing mid-range cushioning. (On a scale or 1-10, 1 is akin to running barefoot and 10 is comparable to a traditional running shoe.) The articulated Nike Free sole is flexible and moves naturally with the foot. Diagonal hot-knifed sipes (strategically-engineered flex grooves) through the arch help ensure natural movement in the mid-foot as a runner transitions stride.

The Nike Free Flyknit comes on the heels of decades of biomechanics research and design exploration with the intent of providing the best run possible. The breakthrough combination of a compressive Nike Flyknit upper with a highly flexible Nike Free midsole and outsole adds up to a running shoe that delivers a more natural ride, amplifying athletes’ ability to move quickly and comfortably over distance.

The Nike Free Flyknit is available at select Nike Stores beginning Aug. 1. SRP: Php 7,895

Nike Apparel Technologies help athletes maintain optimal body temperature

PHILIPPINES, AUGUST 2013—A new range of Nike apparel products assist the body’s natural ability to regulate temperature when running in a variety of conditions. The innovations are informed by Nike’s "Nature Amplified" design ethos — an approach focused on the body in motion and fueled by scientific data and athlete insights — to keep runners comfortable, protected and focused on performing at their best.

Nike designers and engineers worked with scientists in the world-class Nike Sport Research Lab (NSRL), and with members of Nike’s Advanced Innovation Team, to gain valuable information about how the body behaves in motion and responds to materials of varying weight, composition and thermal properties.

NIKE DRI-FIT

Nike’s popular Dri-FIT technology is proven to keep athletes dry and comfortable by moving sweat away from the skin to a garment’s outer layer. Now, Dri-FIT expands into new fabrications and apparel designs to serve performance, fit and comfort needs in a variety of conditions.

“Nike designers focus on solving problems to enhance athlete performance. We know that athletes want to maintain an ideal body temperature. They want quick-drying apparel and they want their clothing to move with them,” says VP of Design John Hoke. “Dri-FIT Knit, Dri-FIT Touch and Dri-FIT Wool answer these needs.”

Nike Dri-FIT Knit is an ultra-soft, lightweight fabric incorporating visibly different knit patterns to provide stretch and optimal cooling benefits. An open texture on the sides of garments promotes breathability in key sweat zones, and seamless construction ensures a smooth fit free of distraction.

The Nike Dri-FIT Knit is now available at Nike Park The Fort. SRP: Shirt - Php 2,395; Long-sleeved Shirt - Php 3,995

About NIKE, Inc.

NIKE, Inc. based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Wholly owned Nike subsidiaries include Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic footwear, apparel and accessories; Cole Haan, which designs, markets and distributes luxury shoes, handbags, accessories and coats; Umbro Ltd., a leading United Kingdom-based global football (soccer) brand; and Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets and distributes action sports and youth lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories. For more information, visit nikeinc.com.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Lorenzo Manalang / Jandric Lim

Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide

E-mail: Lorenzo.Manalang@ogilvy.com / Jandric.Lim@ogilvy.com

Tel: 238-7000 loc. 7031/7051

Test Your Limits At The Filinvest Endurance Weekend

It's all about pushing your boundaries

• Filinvest City wants to make a mark in the running and biking community by contributing a memorable and very challenging event
• Instead of the usual mechanics, we’re testing the limits of both seasoned athletes and beginners looking for a new adventure.
• 12 hours each
• 2 different events
• The most loops

The Race : 12 hr Trail Run

When: September 14, 6am to 6pm

Expected number of racers: 300-500 pax

Categories (Men & Women)

• 16-19 years old
• 20-29 years old
• 30-39 years old
• 40-49 years old
• 50 years old and above

General Rules:

1. Run as many laps as you WANT in 12-Hours. Last lap to be completed by 12-HRs. the runner with the most number of laps in a 12 hour period will win the race.
2. 1 lap is 3.2kms
3. Minimum laps requirement for each racer to be considered a finisher is 12 laps.
4. PARADE LAP: thins the runners out before you enter the course.
5. Racers can stop any time they want but they have to notify the timer if they wish to take an extended break or withdraw from the race.
6. Hydration is REQUIRED on the Course at ALL times. Each runner must carry all their own food, fluids and other supplies needed for use between aid stations
7. There will be one aid station at the activity area and 1 water refilling station at the 1.5km mark in the course.
8. Runners may not accept aid from their support crew or any other source while on the course and in between aid stations and designated support locations, except in case of a medical emergency Runners must wear their official race number on the front of their person, where it must be visible at all times. Timing chip must be worn on the ankle.
9. Absolutely no littering.

The Race : 12 hr MTB Race

When: September 15, 6am to 6pm

Expected number of racers: max of 300

Categories:

1. All-Men Category – Each team will have three (all men) racers (for amateur and novice racers only)
2. Mixed Category – Each team will have three (men and women) racers (for amateur and novice racers only)
3. Solo – Individual category, MEN ONLY (open for professional, amateur and novice racers)

• 16-19 years old
• 20-29 years old
• 30-39 years old
• 40-49 years old
• 50 years old and above

* A team shall consist of three racers; for the mixed category, at least one member should be female

General Rules:

1. 12 hour teams and 12 hour solos ride from 6am – 6pm.
2. One lap of the main course is a loop of about 3.5kms.
3. PARADE LAP: thins the riders out before they enter the course (considered as 1 lap).
4. Minimum lap Requirement: Team members - 10 laps each/Solo Riders - 15 laps each
5. Only one rider from each team goes round the course at any one time.
6. Team‟s decide what order their team members ride in and how many laps each team member riders – all members of the team must ride at least one lap
7. Each team member gets their own race number (if you change bikes during the race it is up to you to move your race number to your new bike)
8. Each team gets a team “Reusable Timing tag” that must be worn on the rider‟s ankle. Each team member will have their own timing tag the must be put on their bike‟s seat post.
9. It‟s highly recommended that each team or solo rider bring their own support crew.
10. Riders in each team „change’ over at their transition site where they change timing tag that is worn by the rider during their whole lap.
11. The rider on the course is timed when they have completed their lap.
12. The idea is to complete as many laps as possible in the 12 hours, the teams in each category who do the most laps WIN!!
13. Teams and solo riders finishing a lap before 12 noon may still start another lap, as long as they start before 24:00:00 on the official race clock. This lap will count with respect to time and laps completed.
14. The time and number of laps completed by each team or solo will determine their finishing order.
15. In case of a tie in laps, the team or solo rider who finishes their last lap first will beat those who finish behind them (Team that has completed 28 laps with a finish time of 12:31pm would beat a team that completed 28 laps, finishing at 12:47pm. And of course, a team that completed 29 laps, finishing at 12:50pm would beat them both.)
16. Scratching a Rider: In the event that a team loses one of its teammates due to illness, injury or exhaustion, that team may elect to “scratch” that rider from the team and continue with the race. However, the team will be listed as DNF. Also, if a team member did not meet his or her lap requirements, then that team is also listed as DNF.

Riding Rules:

• HELMET (compulsory item) – All riders must wear a cycle helmet while competing, warming up or if just riding around the venue area.
• YOUR BIKE – for your own safety and enjoyment and that of other competitors, please have your bike serviced pre race so it is in race ready condition. Any 26” or 29” bikes with Minimum tire width of 1.75 will be allowed in the race. Tires must be knobby, no slicks or semi-slick tires allowed.
• ON THE DAY BIKE REPAIRS/SPARE PARTS ETC. – there may be a limited service center for on the day bike repairs. It’s best if you bring your own spares or bike mechanic.
• FIRST AID – On site.
• BIKE BREAKDOWNS – If a rider has a mechanical problem, they must complete the lap they are on and make it back to the transition point (yes this means by foot if necessary pushing or carrying your bike).

Awards and Prizes

RUN

• Top 3 in Overall Men and Women shall be awarded with cash prizes and medals.
• Top 3 per age group shall be awarded/receive medals,

BIKE

• Top 3 in All-Men, Mixed, and Overall Solo categories shall be awarded with cash prizes and medals.
• Top 3 per age group in Solo category shall be awarded/receive medals.

Registration Sites:

The Starting Line Multisport Store
402B Autocluster Bldg. A, Westgate Center, Filinvest City
Muntinlupa
Tel No: 828-7679 

Cycling Zone
Shell Pacific Gas Station, Alabang-Zapote Road, Muntinlupa
809-6763 

Velocipede Bike Shop
Unit B, Royale Place Arcade (Beside Ever Gotesco Commonwealth)
Tel No: 351-8488 

•Bike King
Bonifacio High Street
Tel. No: 856-3362 

•Secondwind Running Store
88 Malingap Street, Teachers Village QC
Tel No: 238-4005
Unit 3A, Ortigas Home Depot, Julia Vargas, Pasig City
Tel No: 914-0283
Unit GS 107 G-Strip Greenhills Shopping Center, San Juan
Tel No: 945-7850

Cobra Ironman 70.3 Cebu

CM42 Trail Marathon

Clark-Miyamit Trail Marathon

September 22, 2013

Click on the logo for more details.

Sante Barley Domination Run 2013

“The most powerful force on earth is the human soul on fire.”

– Field Marshal Ferdinand Foch

Sante Barley believes in the human soul on fire. And to add more fuel to it, we challenge you to “Dare, Overcome and Dominate” with us. 

This November 2013, we will be launching our very own Sante Domination Run. This will be a prelude to an even bigger Sante Domination Series for 2014. 

What is DomiNation? 

DomiNation's inception is a product of Sante Barley's advocacy to provide a holistic approach to premiere wellness through proper nutrition & supplementation, work-life balance, physical and mental activity. With the changing times, the computer era and a fast-paced lifestyle, our priorities seem to be other aspects in our life that we least look after which is our own health. This is why we, at Sante Barley, would want to help individuals go beyond and conquer their limits.  

Not only is Sante Barley a provider of premier wellness products made from New Zealand, our company is also very much visible in multi-sports events like run, bike, swim, triathlon, etc. We not only conduct trainings and clinics for the public but our very own group, Team Sante Barley, has achieved numerous championships in various sports events. Our venture into the sports industry came as no surprise as a number of athletes reported increased energy and better recovery in their workouts after taking barley. 

What is the Sante Barley Domination Run?

The Sante Barley Domination Run is a fun run with 3K, 5K, 10K, and 21K distances, to be held at Aseana City on November 24, 2013. How it is different will be a surprise, thus the “Anything Goes at the Green Zone” teaser. All you need to know is that participants will surely enjoy these designated “Green Zone”.

Who is the Sante Barley Domination Run supporting?

One of Sante’s most famous users to date is Kuya Kim Atienza, who is most popularly known as a news anchor, triathlete and animal-activist. This run is jointly supported by Sante and Kuya Kim for the benefit of the Philippine Eagle Foundation.

How many will join? 

We are targeting 5,000-6,000 runners from all over the country. We expect them to be a good mix of sports enthusiasts and new fun runners.

 Race Categories and Registration Fees:

• 21k - P700
• 10k - P600
• 5k - P500
• 3k - P300

Race Kit includes: Color-coded Race Singlet per category, Race bib & Timing chip, Race Info sheet, Route Map

Finisher's Loot bag (per Race Category): 21k-10k-5k Medal, 21k Finisher's shirt, Sante IMPACT System gym voucher, sponsors products

Registration:

Online (Aug. 9 onwards) - http://www.santedomination.com/

Note: For online registration, there is a delivery charge of Php150 (anywhere in the Philippines). Shipment starts on September 15, 2013.

In-Store (Sept. 1 onwards)

• Sante Barley branches (9F Galleria Corporate Center; Las Pinas and Starmall-Muntinlupa City)
• Chris Sports (SM Mall of Asia; SM Megamall; SM North Annex and Glorietta 3)
• Fitness & Athletics (Bonifacio HIgh St., BGC, Taguig)

Avon Invites You To Support Their Crusade Against Breast Cancer

Avon invites You to Do Something Beautiful Against Breast Cancer. Register for this year’s Kiss Goodbye to Breast Cancer (KGBC) Manila Run beginning August 12.

"The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade's life-saving work over the past two decades has placed Avon at the forfront of the fight against breast cancer; today Avon is the leading corporate supporter of the cause. Although much progress to end breast cancer has been made, the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade will persevere in its mission until breast cancer is eradicated."

Read on the press release from Avon:

Up to this day, breast cancer remains the top killer of Filipino women, creating an urgent call to every individual—not just those afflicted with the disease—to step up and take part in the fight against this life-threatening condition. 

To know more about the cause, please read here: http://www.avon.com.ph/PRSuite/aboutkgbc2012.page 

Simply knowing such facts does not change things, but concrete action towards better prevention, treatment and support, in whatever form, can go a long way. Avon, the foremost corporate advocate of breast cancer, invites every Filipino to seize the opportunity to do something through the 2013 Kiss Goodbye to Breast Cancer (KGBC) fundraising event.

Since its Philippine launch in 2002, it has been Avon KGBC’s mission to help provide access to care and support to medically under-served women. This year, the company for women is once again leading the charge to gain further support for the cause by launching the ‘Do Something Beautiful Against Breast Cancer’ Campaign, the idea behind which is simple enough – it speaks to the Filipino’s innate trait of being matulungin or helpful, doing something for someone because you are capable and are willing to help another in need.  

GMA 7 star Solenn Heussaff, the cause’s newest ambassador, joins Avon in inviting everyone to concretize their commitment to the fight against breast cancer that culminates with its annual Manila Run Event. 

For a registration fee of Php550 for the 5k event and Php700 for the 10k event, individuals will receive the Avon KGBC Race Kit, which already includes a singlet, race number and giveaway. Proceeds from the event, which will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Open Grounds on October 13, will go to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Breast Care Center and selected provincial hospitals.  

Registration for the Run will be held beginning August 12, 2013 at the following Chris Sports Branches: SM North Edsa; SM Megamall; SM Mall of Asia; Glorietta 3, Makati; Festival Mall, Alabang; and Fitness and Athletics (The Fort).  

You can also register online and get more details about the cause at www.avon.com.ph or facebook.com/AvonPhilippines, and @AvonPH on Twitter and Instagram. 

Get on your mark, and get ready to Do Something Beautiful Against Breast Cancer. Your active participation not only makes you an agent of change, but also translates into a significant contribution towards the fight against breast cancer. 

About Avon  

Avon, the company for women, is a leading global beauty company, with over $10 billion in annual revenue. As the world's largest direct seller, Avon markets to women in more than 100 countries through approximately 6.5 million active independent Avon Sales Representatives. Avon's product line includes beauty products, as well as fashion and home products, and features such well-recognized brand names as Avon Color, Anew, Skin So Soft, Advance Techniques, and Avon Naturals. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avoncompany.com. 

Avon celebrates 35 Years of Making Lives More Beautiful here in the Philippines, strengthens its commitment to provide women with the best in beauty products, unparalleled earning opportunities, and to causes that safeguard the well-being of women, such as the Kiss Goodbye to Breast Cancer and the Speak Out Against Domestic Violence campaigns. Learn more about Avon Philippines at www.avon.com.ph.  

Media Contacts: 

Faith Fernandez Aranton
Avon Philippines
Head of PR and Communications
E-mail: Faith.FernandezAranton@avon.com 

Joy Buensalido
Buensalido & Associates Public Relations
E-mail: pr@buensalido.com.ph
Tel: 817.4471

Another Try At The Milo Marathon Eliminations

I have been waiting year-long for this event. The 2012 milo season had been an unproductive year for me, result-wise, because I did not qualify to the finals held later that year, missing it for about 3 minutes. The longest 3 minutes in my marathon career. Although I submitted a good clocking during that race, 03h58m was still not enough. Please read my post here.

It is now the 37th season and everyone is in high spirit in joining and finishing this race. For me, it was totally different. Every marathoner has a goal in finishing a marathon, but for me, the ultimate goal is to qualify for the finals. I had been there twice before, and nailing it again will be a huge accomplishment. I had been missing, for some time, the carbo-loading party exclusively for the qualifiers and dining again with the greats is on a high priority. Armed with enthusiasm and experience, I once again set foot at the starting line of the Milo Marathon 42km eliminations.

Training:

I had my fair share of training for the past months before the race. Short run on weekdays and long run on weekends were the norm. Weekday runs were done religiously, alternating with a tempo and marathon pace until I reached the peak week. Oval tracks were done too for the Yasso 800's wherein I reached the 3m18s average. Sunday long runs were mostly attributed to easy-relaxed pace just to develop endurance. The average time is 3 hours for every run.

Fast-paced 21km races were incorporated in my training to practice speed and monitor my time. Trail runnings (half marathon and an ultramarathon) were inserted too to strengthen my core and legs and for an added benefit. It was a good choice but avoiding injury should be on a high note.

Leading to race day, the goal is to develop the legs first (months before race day), then the lungs (weeks before race day) and the mental aspect (days before race day). Nutrition should be present as early as day one. And ample sleep too. Try this formula and you'll be in good hands.

I was relaxed days before the event, unlike my other marathon races. The mental game sank on me as early as the peak week. The taper week was just relegated to strategizing and review of my battle plan. I had no major issues regarding nutrition as well, I just did what I am doing during training. No special meal whatsoever. The only generous meals were those from the different race launch that I attended, LOL.

Race:

I was early at the venue during race day. Four quality hours of sleep was good enough to lift my spirit that day. I can feel the good vibes within me as I drove to the venue with Romy. I was ecstatic that I can achieve my goal,  trusting everything, from training to plans, will work very well. Romy and I proceeded to a light warm-up immediately after arriving at the venue. Twenty minutes were good enough for an easy jog and stretches, including the hi's and hello's to some friends. There were 2,500+ participating souls inside the corral when we got in. Because the plan is to start strong, I slid among the hundreds to make it near the front of the starting line. Shortly after we were sent off.

Because many started fast, jackrabitting themselves into the front, the road were filled. Romy and I weaved our way ahead through the sidewalk. My start was pretty good, from moderate to tempo in just over a minute. I was observing myself if I will choke up during my start but I did not, good sign. I increased my pace slowly to marathon goal pace, until Romy begged off and told me to go ahead. I proceeded, but cautious of the redline. Luckily, there was none.

I pulled ahead after the first kilometer, to a pace of 4m55s per kilometer, thanks to Alfred's garmin, I was able to know where I started. From that figure, I calculated my every move, sometimes going faster, sometimes getting slower. I ran comfortably within that zone. I was surprised that the legs and the lungs were cooperating from the very start and throughout the whole course. With my air ways clear the leg works followed. The situation was totally different from my run last year, where I felt my legs weakened as early as km18 before succumbing to cramps at km34. Read my account here.

I felt stronger as I progressed, reminiscent of my past milo races, where I registered my fastest clocks. At the back of my mind is just one goal, that is to qualify for the finals. A feat that was forbidden a year ago. Relying on this mind set and with the help of two rosary prayers along the course, I accomplished my goal.

Here are my splits:

• km5   - 0h23m
• km10 - 0h47m
• km15 - 1h12m
• km21 - 1h42m
• km30 - 2h29m
• km42 - 3h38m

Observations:

The hosting of the 37th Milo Manila Leg was again a success, hats off once more to RunRio events.

1. The water stations were strategically located with ample reserves of ice cold water and gatorade, and bananas too. I heard even the last runners had their share.
2. Gatorade provision, way better than last year's 100 Plus, where majority of runners, including me, find it unattractive as energy drink. 10 stars for that G. 
3. Secured race route. Although there is an unconfirmed report of a runner bumped by a cab along the route and ended up at the police station instead of the finish line. Sad.
4. Race marshals spread along the race course.
5. Presence of Takbo.ph aid station. Volunteerism rocks!
6. Festive atmosphere at the venue particularly at the finish line.
7. Huge medal and quality finisher's shirt.
8. Satisfied runners. Thousand of participants from all categories.
9. Heated one and two finish. The organizers managed to document the winner down to a millisecond interval.

Congratulations to all the finishers. See you at the finals.

Photo from Blue-Legged Runner

Photo from the Takbo.ph aid station.

Photo from RPMB of Running Photographers

Photo from RHI of Running Photographers.

Sole Racing Leg 2 Fastest Group Challenge

The clock is ticking. Inviting running groups, here's your chance to prove that you're not just running for fun, but you're racing as well. Join the Safeguard-2XU Fastest Group Challenge and avail of discounts on your registration. Read on the mechanics and prizes below.

Men's Health URBANATHLON & Festival 2013

The Men's Health URBANATHLON is a one-of-a-kind competition that combines traditional road race elements with rigorous obstacles and puts them against a backdrop of the Philippine urban setting.

It is the international signature event of Men's Health.

Post-race, the excitement continues at the Men's Health URBANATHLON Festival, with DJ sets, food and drink, and tons of stuff from sponsors to demo, sample and take home.

The 2013 URBANATHLON is going to be bigger, tougher and more demanding.

Are you ready?

What: Men's Health Urbanathlon 2013 (MHU2013)

When: September 29, 2013 (Sunday)

Where: SM Mall of Asia

Race Categories: 5KM | 10KM | 21KM (all with obstacles)

Target Participants: 2,500

Registration Details:

Registration Period: August 1 to September 25

Registration Venues:

• R.O.X. BGC
• 360 Fitness Makati
• 360 Fitness Ortigas
• 360 Fitness QC
• Gold's Gym Alabang

Registration Fees:

•   5KM: Php 850
• 10KM: Php 900
• 21KM: Php 950

Race Kit Inclusions:

• Singlet
• Race Bib
• IPICO Timing Chip (which needs to be returned after the race)
• Buff/Bandana

Finisher's Freebies:

• Snacks from Century Tuna
• Hydration from Gatorade
• Finisher Shirt from Bo Athletics
• Finisher Medal
• Certificate of Completion
• Urbanathlon Finisher Cap (Exclusive for 21k only)

Urbanathlon Boot Camp:

August 7 and 14 at Mercato Centrale BGC (Target: 50 participants) which aims every participants train the hard way and to:

• be better prepared for the Urbanathlon
• train the right way with the official coaches and race director
• try out the obstacles before the race day
• answer all of your race questions

Here are the series of obstacles that participants should pass to complete the race. (In no particular order)