Running In The Philippines

With Nathaniel at the 30K mark of the Run United 2 - 32K in November 2010.  This was one week after running my first ultra marathon. 

 

This runner has been fortunate to run in several countries.  There's Canada, Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong.  On the upcoming vacation, there will be one addition in Thailand and a country I've raced in more than any other, besides America, in the Philippines.

 

In the six visits, this runner has raced nine times.  The Tagaytay-Nasugbu 50K in 2010 was the longest while the 2023 Stripes 5K Run on my birthday was the shortest.

 

There are four runners whom are also race directors that I would race for, and in their races, whenever in the country.

 

Rio De La Cruz (Run Rio), Bald Runner (PAU events), Jinoe Gavan (Takbo.ph) and Marlon Mercado (TakboNaPilipnas) are active and great with the running community.  

 

This runner remembers the year 2008 very well.  Here I was seeing a second running boom, right in the Philippines.  People were getting out and walking/running.  The ultra marathon scene was growing as well.  It definitely has changed 17 years later.

 

Unlike in the United States, much of the races are run very early before sunrise because of the heat and humidity.  However, it is worth it as I found out in that very first race.  Fluids and lighter clothing are important for everyone.

 

On Sunday, September 14th, it will be the Rexona Metro Manila 5K in Makati City starting at the Ayala Triangle area.  This runner remembers the Triangle well as it was training ground for a couple of races.  My friends, Carlito, Dennis, Wilbert and Jennifer will be there, and am sure that some names from the past will catch up and share some old times together.

 

The race is, once again, put on by Run Rio's staff, so there will definitely be no issues there.  The events begin at 2am, bright and early!