Dream Marathon Test Run: My longest

The test is over and did I pass?

We assembled at around 5:00am. The dreamers  were grouped into 4 based on our run strategies (9:1 run/walk, 5:1 run/walk, a slow 7.30 all-run and then there’s the run-at-your-own-pace group). Just when darkness left, we started running.

The group was upbeat and everyone just seem to be excited about this test run.  The pace groups started one after another and before long you just see the one big group naturally splitting-up into the 4 pace groups.  Much later on still, the groups actually spilled-over one another as others speed up eventually and the others maintained the slower pace.

I can tell you, our group wasn’t doing a 7.30 at all.  6.30-6.40  was more like it during the first half of the run. Whatever pace one eventually took, you’ll just see them going at it,  encouraging one another with a smile or a cheer. After the official 28k target,  others decided to call it a day  while others tried to hang on under the intense heat of the sun and ran on for a kilometer or two more.

the blue sole pacing the 7.30 pack

running a long but gradual incline

nice view

that's me still smiling at around 10k into the run

Running 3 hours already at past 8am, the heat was taking it’s toll on me.  I was breathless and sooo hot but  I still had 6k to cover.  We ran 2k and I was getting worried about getting heat stroke.  The sun was beating hard on me.  We did another 2k and then another.  I was glad Jun was running with me as he provided great support carrying my water jug, dozing me with cold water and truly believing I can do it. “2k na lang, kayang-kaya mo na yan.”   I did finish 30k, thank God!  Target completed.

It was great sharing my longest run with these great group of runners.  It was fun running with this group knowing most of us are venturing in this long distance run for the first time and most of us share the same dream of finishing our first marathons.

It was great, too, that this test run was well-supported.  Thanks to Jaymie and Edward and the rest of team. The strategically-placed water stations, the mobile COLD gatorade supply, the portalets and the showers all made this long, hot test run so much more bearable.  Our post-run breakfast and running stories shared with friends made it all the more a good experience.

With 30k done and taper mode beginning, I wonder if I can really run 11k more?  As Jun always tells me, “the last 10k is all heart”.  I just hope my heart is tough enough to get me to the finish line…  One thing for sure, I’d be doing a lot of praying.

God bless all the TBR Dream Marathoners!  I sure will be praying for all of us.

1 runner = 1 tree : Nature Valley Run 2010 Presscon

Coach Rio dela Cruz and Donna Cruz top-bills the event

Do you know that in a year, an average tree inhales 12 kilograms (26 pounds) of CO2 and exhales enough oxygen for a family of four for a year (data from UNEP).   With the Nature Valley Run 2010 aiming to have 7,000 participants, that would mean 7,000 trees.  So if we can plant 7,000 trees, additional 28,000 families will have the benefit of clean air for a year.

I really support tree planting programs because trees play a crucial role in sustaining the  foundation of the living networks and systems that provide us all with health, wealth, food, fuel and vital ecosystem services our lives depend on. They help provide breathable air, drinkable water, fertile soils and a stable climate.

We were privileged to be invited in the Nature Valley Run 2010 (RunRio Trilogy Leg2) Presscon at Dusit hotel together with other running friends/bloggers and media.

We’re printing here their official press release:

Nature Valley is a range of granola bars that believes in promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle in a natural way thru exercise and a balanced diet. The Nature Valley Run aims to create awareness about climate change and encourage positive action to curb its damaging effects on nature.

Nature Valley partnered with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Bayanihang Bayan Legacy Project located in the Ipo Watershed in Norzagaray, Bulacan.

Nature Valley’s commitment is to plant one tree for every registered runner. This run is an all-out effort to contribute to stopping the effects of climate change.  The run will help re-plant hectares of land in the Ipo Watershed with the help of the “Dumagat” community. The One Runner = One Tree pledge is not only about tree planting but also ensuring the trees are properly cared for, monitored and efficiently maintained for 5 years. “It is our goal to touch many hearts and feet to run on that day. We believe small acts if put together can make a big difference”. said Diana Lyn Velasco, Brand Manager.

Over 7,000 participants, including professionals, students, celebrities and weekend runners, are expected to join the event which features 3K, 5K, 10K and the centerpiece 21K races.

List up which ends on May 12 can be done at various Timex shops at SM North EDSA,  SM Southmall,  SM San Lazaro, Glorietta, Watch Republic at Robinsons Galeria and at R.O.X.  Bonifacio High Street at The Fort.

Late registrants will be accepted from May 13-20 at the R.O.X.

Online list up is also available at www.naturevalleyrun2010.com and runrio.com

Tanya Lara (Phil. Star), Bobby (Cruise Control), Vima (Kulit Runner), me and Kaye Lopez (Runrio). The pink sole missed this one due to office commitments.

We love that we can run and help the environment as well!  Come on register now.  Run and have a tree planted in your name!

Yes, small acts if put together will make a big difference!