Runfest 2010: Takbo.ph’ Fun Celebration of Running & Friendships

It was quite apparent from the very start that this is going to be a special celebration.  Takbo.ph, the largest running community in the Philippines, is  celebrating its 2nd year anniversary. So, what do you expect?

With Que most graciously offering to accommodate our late registration entry when I told her we weren’t able to sign-up, we were able to witness the fun, laughter and camaraderie the Takbo, ph community is known for.   I ran 10k with my good friend Melody while Jun served as our official photographer.  It was a well-organized race and a great celebration of running and friendships!  Everyone was clearly having fun and contributing to make the event a memorable one.

I gained a friend there myself,  runner Oyet, positioned right behind me at the corral, asked if i was The Pink Sole.  Surprised as i was being called that, i muttered a “huh? oh yeah.” haha  We had a good chat and some picture-taking (Oyet, if you’re reading this, please send me our pic so i can post here ) Very happy to learn my marathon experience inspired one other runner.  Run on Oyet! (i hope i got your name spelled right.)

I had a happy run on the mostly flat course, interspersed with happy volunteers shouting cheers to the runners.  Happy to run with Mel again and happy to see good running friends Mark and Tiffin Parco at the finish line.

To Jinoe and Que and the entire Takbo.ph community, congratulations and happy 2nd anniversary! Keep up the spirit!  Good job everyone!

Here’s my contribution as official photographer for the pink sole… as always.

mark and tiffin parco waits for gunstart in front

Mariel and good friend Melody before entering the corral

view from the back of the pack as 10k runners await race start

mel and mariel blending well with their black outfits. good thing they were wearing striking pink and orange caps or i might have a hard time spotting them. oh, and there's nora, the golden girl, too.

Coach Rio graced the event and helped award the winners

mark parco didn't miss the celebrations

of course, tiffin parco wouldn't be left behind.

one U-turn away

Pink Sole almost at the finish

Melody pushes to the finish

Per and Dennis finishing together. Couple PR?

As I did not run this one and gave way to our friend Mel who wanted to run with Mariel, i was able to observe almost the entirety of the event.  It was festive and fun,  a fitting 2nd year anniversary celebration for Takbo.ph.  Congratulations!

Inday, Inday, What Have You Done?

Our training, among other things, was temporarily put to a halt when our household help who we will conveniently cover under the name “Inday” attempted to take her own life last Thursday morning by drinking a whole bottle of Eskinol.  We stopped training  and instead ran against time to make sure she gets all needed hospital care to make her well again.  You can just imagine the flurry of activities we needed to do — 3 hospital transfers, contacting her relatives, relating the incident endless times, trips to the lab, x-ray, pharmacy…. cashier… precinct… legal counsel… whoa, what a couple of days those were!

She survived and lived to tell her story. Thank God!

By Saturday afternoon, she was talking clearly and able to stand and walk around.  Doctors advised that she may be discharged the following day.  We were relieved and comfortable enough to continue on with our scheduled race the following day at the Rexona Run.

Thank God for letting us run our 21k race the following day.  We were able to run our stress awaaaay!

Thanks to Runrio and Rexona for an excellently-organized, runner-stress-free race!  We needed that!!!

After the race, we were off to worship service and to the hospital right after to settle the bill…. Haaay, we need another 21k after this!!!

Inday, Dodong, Maria, Juan…  your life is precious; a  gift from the Father who created us in His own image.  Let’s live it well so that when the time comes and we are called back in His appointed time NOT ours, we can delight in His words, “Well done good and faithful servant.”

May God bless us all with wisdom and understanding. 

Inday, Inday, never again, okies?

Special Assignment

Two Saturdays ago, we were part of something that’s special to the Sole Mates — the soft launch of our church’s running ministry, RUN924. A talk on the basics of running  by Coach Rio dela Cruz  aptly titled ” Running 101 with Coach Rio” was presented with special participation of Beth Siojo who also introduced trail running basics.

It was a busy month prior to the event. As soon as Coach Rio pegged a date, we started work –  reserving a venue, gathering the core group,  planning details of the event, promoting it and doing all the nitty-gritty details one needs to do for an event like this.

We had an overwhelming number  of registrants on just the first week of promoting it such that we felt our current venue will not be able to hold the over 300 registered.  We just shot a video ad (a cool one if i may say with all actors wearing a Coach Rio do) which we did not show anymore for fear of registrants further ballooning to a number our venue cannot accommodate.  We treated it as a happy problem.  We prayed about the venue and continued working on getting CCF’s main theater to accommodate everybody.  Meantime, we stopped all promotions but on-line registration kept adding-up. Finally, we were able to secure the bigger venue just a few days before the event. Phew, just in time!

Then typhoon Basyang arrived and made its presence really felt.  Work got stunted due to brown-outs.  The team couldn’t email presentation files we had to consolidate.  We prayed… we worked … and we prayed.  We thank God everything turned-out A-okay!

We were blessed with a good turn-out, good venue, good weather and most of all a good number of additional volunteers. Yey!!!

Special thanks to Coach Rio and ultramarathoner, Beth Siojo who graciously shared their time, experience and expertise! God bless you both!

Our take on this assignment:  God only requires a willing heart.  He will provide the ability, resources and the time so we can do the work He has planned for us to accomplish.

Praying that we be faithful stewards of this work He has entrusted us… What a great privilege to serve…

The Rexona Run 2010

Have you registered for the Rexona Run on Aug. 1, 2010 to be held at a fresh route at MOA?

Runners numbering 6,300 already did so don’t be left behind with yet another big race by RunRio.   This is one innovative race indeed with many firsts.

1)  E-Registration

The new paperless e-registration makes use of the Apple Ipads. No more writing on paper forms.  With just presses and finger flips on the screen, you can get your details in.

2) Run Rio Membership Card

With the many races Runrio is dishing out, registration will not be repetitive from now on.  If you register for the Rexona Run, you will automatically be given a RunRio membership card.  For  future  Runrio races, registration would be a breeze.  One would need only to encode the member’s no. , distance and shirt size and you’re good to go.

Wait, this membership card will be evolving into something bigger.  Work is in the offing so watch out for further announcements.

For those who registered early and did not receive their cards yet,  it’s  now available for pick up where you registered.

3) D-Tag Timing Device

Another new thing in this race is that we will be using a new timing device.  The D-tag timing has been used in some of the more prominent  international running events such as NY Marathon and KL marathon.

So, don’t be left out. Only a few more days left to register.

Until July 19 :   All Timex outlets in SM Malls

Until July 26 :   Timex, SM MOA only and ROX, Bonifacio High Street

ROUTE DETAILS:

PARKING RECOMMENDATIONS:

See you all at the starting line!

PINK FIRST BEFORE GREEN

Yes, I’m still thinking pink in this season of green.  Gotta publish this post of an enjoyable all-women’s run albeit late so Jun  can proceed to the Milo green zone…

I was tensed going into the  Team Woman Run.  No, I wasn’t tensed about the relay.  I wasn’t participating in it.  No, I wasn’t tensed about running 5k either.  The tension is coming from coordinating redemption of my friends and family’s race packets.   I was constantly texting upon waking up on race day.  I was texting while at home, while eating,  in the car,  in the restroom, while warming up and texting still just before crossing the starting line.  HAHAHA  For the love of my family and friends who I really want to share this running fever with.

It was a race full of tutus.  Fairies and clowns graced the events. Yes,  race participants seemingly catching the Tessa Prieto-Valdez fever were apleanty.  Of course, the one and only Tessa, did not disappoint.  She was in a shocking pink tutu over compression tights, with normal running shirt and cap.

Our group were in normal running clothes.  I didn’t want to unnecessarily add pressure to my newbie friends and family members by asking them to wear a costume.  We were around 30 with ages ranging from 11 to 60 years old, would you believe?  My mission for this race was to just invite as many of my friends and family as possible to run and join the race.  I planned to run with each one at least part of the route just to make them feel they’re not alone.  I managed to do this at the first 2 kilometers as I went back to see how other friends are running along, taking their running pics and running on ahead to catch-up with the others again.

At the 3rd kilometer, I just ran-walked-ran with my 11-year old daughter Sofia who was already tired by then as she escaped my net and  ran full-blast early tackling the hills in haste.  She and my 15-year old Bea are both running their first 5k.

Our group broke into natural groupings according to their own paces.  My sister Jen and Bea ran together;  Jun’s sisters, Ate Raquel and Baby, paced each other; Lisa and Sonia formed yet another  group while Marge, Debbie and Rizza each found their own pace.  The others we found only after the race while a couple of them later on texted they failed to wake up.   HAHAHA

Yet, I am very much satisfied. Everyone who got to run was one in saying that they enjoyed and many said they’d be back for more.    It’s a good feeling being able to share this passion called running…

I hope they continue running on…   Till the next race…

Now for the pics…

WAITING AT THE STARTING LINE

me with daughters bea and sofia

jenny, debbie, jen, me, marge, baby, lisa, sofia and bea

first time 5kers sofia and bea w/ first time runners tita baby & tita raquel

good friends jen & marge, first timers no more!

ENJOYING THE RACE…

... and we're off!!!

debbie enjoying her first run without kids in tow while jenny drinking in the sights and sounds of her first race ever!

jenny

debbie

jun's sisters baby and ate raquel, first time 5k'ers

my good friend lisa and her friend sonia enjoying the walk... errr run.

sofia's milestones as she passed km 3

... and then km 4

Jun's cam caught some celebrities, too-Jamie Rivera

…  Rovilson Fernandez  and Illac Diaz

jen and bea

jenny

me with 11 year old sofia at the finish line

Bea, the reluctant runner, finished her first 5k strong and w energy to spare! Woohoo! Congrats Beii!!!

bea, rizza, marge, me, debbie and jenny -- Yey, you did it ladies!

tanya lara who just finished her 10k leg of the relay and me. Good run Tans, Congrats!

at the piazza -- a very nice after-race venue. Like!

my fave girl clowns. aren't they a cute bunch?

with Team U.P. Mandaragat -- Ria Marifosque, Shiela Albasin, Pach Cordero, Jen Anggangan, me and Marianne Camoying

with Mel and her staff

AFTER RACE UPDATES…

Everyone enjoyed the experience and seem to want more.

LISA …  is all set and has registered for her 2nd 5k run.  Woohoohoo!

RIZZA and JEN …  first time to join a race; reminded me to invite them again next time I race. Yey!!!

MARGE … a veteran 5k’er is being urged to level-up to 10k.  Go go go Marge!

JEN … has leveled-up to 10k and raring for some more. Go sis!

BABY … still nursing a lower leg discomfort we hope will disappear with a good massage.

ATE RAQUEL … veteran treadmill user seems to be okay.  Will she run another race?  Only time can tell…

UP Mandaragat Runners … a happy and excited bunch of runners who will definitely be back for more!

ACER Staff… excited for the next run!

SOFIA…  after grabbing a Big Breakfast at McDo is raring to run again.

BEA …  a dancer at heart but wouldn’t mind joining the family for family runs.

The SOLE MATES … raring for some serious training again …  See you on the road!

34th Milo Marathon Advisory

For the warriors of the road who will run at the 34th Milo Eliminations this Sunday, may you be running the full marathon or half or 10k or 5k and even 3k, whether you’re  doing it for the first time or to break your PR, to qualify for the finals,  to support this worthy cause, or for just plain fun, we wish you  all the best.

Just got in from my inbox requesting us to post this latest advisory:

In line with the thrust of MILO® Phils. to continually raise the standards of road races and provide all runners with an exceptional running experience, we would like to issue this advisory in connection with the staging of the 34^th National MILO® Marathon on Sunday, July 4, 2010:

• All unregistered runners or “bandit runners” will not be allowed to run along the designated race course throughout the duration of the race. The same will also apply for pacers of registered runners who have not officially registered as participants.
• Except for sanctioned lead/trailing automobiles no other vehicles (to serve as pacer or support or otherwise to a particular participant) will be allowed on and along the race course throughout the race.
• Aid stations other than the designated aid/hydration stations will be allowed set-up along the race course provided assistance will be open to ALL REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS and do not pose any form of obstruction to the runners.

We will deploy a round-the-clock roving race support team to monitor the observance of these vital race policies. We are hoping for the full support of the running community.

Andrew Neri                                                                                                                                                                                                              Nestle Philippines, Inc.

Mission Done at Rock and Run

The Rock and Run was not to be just another race event for us.  It was destined to be something special.  Afterall, it was to be my younger sister, Jen’s  first 10k event , and I promised to pace her.  (See previous post on this mission.)

We were not disappointed.  What promised to be a special race turned out to be an amazing one!!!  Oh, forget about the concept being totally ruined with the bands unable to play throughout the route.  The atmosphere was festive enough with runners enjoying playing … err running in the rain!

Now, our story…

We were in the race venue an hour before gunstart.  More than enough time to meet up with friends, have some photo-ops,  chat, have a restroom break and even grab a doughnut at nearby Krispy Kreme.  All that done in the hour before gunstart when we saw the  cloudy sky turn dark and drops of rain came falling, immediately turning to a hard downpour.

sis, jen and our good friend Anne

me with friend valee in matching tops

the solemates who else? ;

Jun with good friend Vince delRos

Eric & Valee and me

Jen, Anne and me

Our party of 3, Jun, my sister Jen and myself, were with couple  friends Vince & Anne and Hans & Dang (also running her first 10k).  Jen, Anne and myself left the group and went to grab a krispy kreme when I realized I didn’t eat any snacks and was already feeling hungry. Got to go to the restroom one last time and after that was total chaos as I went looking for Jun and then my sister and the rest of the group as I realized the 10k event was starting.  Good thing got my cellphone with me was able to find them in time to run towards the starting line and catch-up with 10k’ers.

raining cats and dogs

that had runners take cover before race start

Run powered by Krispy Kreme?

We ran laughing trying not to slip on the soaked grass and road. Whew, made it pass the 5k’ers  just in time when the last of the 10k pack was leaving.  So, our planned relaxed pace didn’t happen.  We were huffing and puffing…  and laughing as we started the race!  HAHAHA     We were dripping wet,  our shoes soaked even before we reached the starting line.   What a way to start!!!

We slowed down and relaxed even when the rain was beating hard on us.  We felt the drops stinging our skin with accompanying wind that blew my cap away.  Have not ran any race like this.  The Eco Dash Run last year which I thoroughly enjoyed paled in comparison.  I was also loving the scene — runners happily chatting and laughing.  There was even a girl walking with friends under  her pink umbrella!

Jen running her first 10k under pouring rain

umbrella anyone?

Jen at this time was running at her regular pace while I ran alongside her providing the stories that would take her mind off the distance.  At one time, I felt cold as I wasn’t exerting much effort running.  With Jen shooing me away with a reminder to go back for her, I sped on for a couple of minutes to heat up and went back to pace her again.

Mercifully, the rain let-up at around 4k and we ran on with short rest breaks.  At the 6km marker, I pointed out to  her, ” 4k nalang” and got a reply, “Ha? 4k pa?” and we laughed out loud MWAAHAHAHAHAHA !!!

Jen running at around 7k

The next 2kms had me giving her targets to overtake and the last 2kms  had me digging deep into my reserves of kwentos and encouraging words.  “Almost there” , ” Konti na lang”,  “You’re running more than your longest distance na!”, ” Galing-galing!”, “Come on, come on”, “Strong Finish”, “Let’s go!”, Wow, 10k ka na!”

She had a good run and we had a  great  time!  Jen conquered her first 10k  at 1.22.28.  WOOHOO!!!  So proud of you sis!!!

The pouring rain did make this event memorable and exciting.  I just enjoyed the scene and running in the rain.  Though the event didn’t turn out the way the organizers planned it, we still commend them for staging a fun race.  Better marshalling effort and route traffic management  next time would be in order though to ensure safety of the runners (rain or shine!).

More important for us that day though was that  Jen finished her first 10k!!! Congrats Jen! YOOHOO!  Pa-cheeseburger ka naman!!!

You did it Sis! Good Job!

Mom and Dad at the finishline. Feeling marathon ah! haha

10K!

first time 10k finishers Jen and Dang

Jun, Jen, Mom, Dad and me

Jun, me, Dang, Jen, Anne, Vince and Hans -- good ol' friends!

Team Woman Run (by Lactacyd)

It is always fun when women gather.  There is incessant chatter and  smiles and laughter abound.

The Team Woman Lactacyd Run offers more!  A chance to experience an all-women fun run and boy (i mean girl!) wouldn’t that be a blast?

I wish I could have joined the relay.  My sister and I, at the onset, planned to join this with 2 of our closest friends but things just didn’t pull through.  We could have given the elites a run for their money! Right Jen, Anne, Cielo? LOL

Anyway, I was able to invite 30+ of my family, friends and my friends’ friends including my 2 daughters to join the 5k run.  Running with this group alone composed of first-timers, newbies and serious runners really excites me.  I’m sure we’d have lots of fun running … walking even!!!

So, we’ll see you tomorrow, June 27, 4:45am (5k gunstart) at the McKinley Hills.

Let’s have a fabulous run, sisters!!!

Guys, don’t fret.  We want you there, too!  Please, please, please… take our pictures?   (Peace, Hon! Luvyah! Camera, okay?…)

Oh, if you haven’t registered yet, there will be on-site registration on race day!  So, come on! Gather your friends for a sisterhood run!

Go Team Woman!!!

Hon, pics okay?   ( I could just hear him say…. “Kulit!” hehe)

_______________________

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.

OCAI Run updated

PRESS RELEASE:  Ortigas Center warms up for first ever road run

Running enthusiasts will be psyched to learn that they will be able to sprint through the wide and hilly avenues of Ortigas Center come June 27, 2010. Thanks to the Ortigas Center Association, Inc. (OCAI), a non-stock, non-profit organization commissioned to uphold the stature of Ortigas Center as one of the nation’s prime business districts, the very first OCAI Run will have its gun start at 5:00am for 10k runners, 5:15am for 5k runners and 5:30am for 3k runners in front of the Philippine Stock Exchange in Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

But this won’t be your usual, pardon the pun, run-of-the-mill race. What makes this different from the myriad fun runs that dominate the country’s fitness calendars these days is the location. “Never before has Ortigas Center hosted a run before,” said race director Rudy Biscocho. “Due to the elevation in and around the Ortigas Center area, there will be uphill stretches guaranteed to test your mettle,” he teased. “But naturally, for every uphill climb there is a reward, and you can improve you time by increasing your pace downhill,” explained Biscocho.

Posing a different challenge from other typically flat runs are the hilly roads in and around Ortigas Center. The 10k route will feature a downhill trek on Lanuza Drive in Valle Verde and an uphill stretch on Julia Vargas Avenue. The 5k will take runners through San Miguel Avenue to E. Rodriguez Avenue and back to Exchange Road for the finish line while the 3k will be a more casual breeze within the Ortigas Center.

“This first ever road run in Ortigas Center aims to accomplish the goals of the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center and Balance Lifestyle Fitness,” said Luz N. Cotoco, Chairman of OCAI. “It is also for the benefit of the various humanitarian projects of RCOC,” added Cotoco.

Registration fee is Php 400 for any of the three distances which is inclusive of one race bib, baller band, route map, finisher shirt and loot bag that will be given out right after the run. All proceeds of the OCAI Run will go to the humanitarian projects of the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center. Registration period is from April 30 to June 26, 2010, at all Mizuno outlets and at OCAI Office. Many raffle prizes including a Technomarine watch and giveaways await lucky participants, while cash prizes will be given to the top 3 finishers of each category.

For inquiries call 890-4230 and 0922-8367990 and look for Ms Ana Salas. Or check out their Facebook page by searching for “OCAI Run”. The OCAI Run is organized by OCAI with RCOC, presented by the Ortigas & Company Limited Partnership and sponsored by HSBC, Meralco, Puregold, The San Miguel Corporation, First Holdings, Flanax, Xenical, The Oriental Assurance Corporation, BusinessWorld, CCI Enterprises, SM Megamall, Robinsons Department Store, Unilever and Ropali.

Bottle Run – 100% Charity, 100% Fulfilling

The Bottle Run is definitely a “no-frills race”.  With all proceeds going to the re-building of schools destroyed by typhoon Ondoy, the less race expense, the better for the beneficiaries.

Heaven must have been pleased with this project as the weather cooperated.  It was not that hot as in previous race days so the gatorade stations positioned every 2 kilometers seemed just right.  No water though. Hu Hu Hu Sad that no water company sponsored this worthy cause.

It was funny though how I had to explain to atleast 3 people I had the chance to run/meet during and after the race that the race is 100% for charity so there are no water stations every kilometer and  that is also why there were no singlets or any other freebies.  Heard them complaining and I couldn’t resist… hee hee  Nope, I didn’t antagonize them whatsoever. I explained it ever so charmingly and won them over.  I think! 

It was a nice but tough 10k route.  What else can we expect from race director, Edward Kho.  With Nature Valley 2 weeks ago as my last race and zero mileage since, I was all gang-ho about it and still wanted a new PR.  With a walk break though at the steepest incline in McKinley Hills, i let that PR go and finished at 1.07.16 (garmin).  BUT, it sure was fulfilling running for something that would benefit fellow-Ondoy victims (Click HERE for our post on our personal experience with Ondoy) .

I hope the running community support charity runs like this one.  Our small acts binded together would surely make a difference in the lives of people who really need help.

The simplicity of this race didn’t take away the essence of the race itself — having fun running and helping a worthy cause!  In fact, it’s simplicity highlighted its very essence — RUN & HELP!

It was great seeing runners who lent their celebrity to the cause — Miriam Quiambao and Coach Rio.  We wanted to help in that respect, too, but we are wanting in celebrity status. MWAHAHAHA

Good to see our running friends there too — Bobby (Cruise Control) and  Doray (Doralicious).

Kudos to all those involved in this worthy cause and kudos to all  who supported it!

Goal-less June No More!

Okay, okay, i’ve  been goal-less this month.  Haven’t run a single K since Nature Valley… Haven’t even been plotting races to run! Haaay, gotta get the groove back so  here’s an attempt…

Bottle Run (10k) on June 11,

Rock and Run(10k) on June 19,

Ocai (10k) on June 27

…. ALL 10k’s!  I therefore declare June as my 10K month! Now, now, a goal is hatching…  let me make some calls…

hmm…. aren’t you suppose to be psyching yourself up to get  ready for something big?

Big?

Called up my sis, Jen, to entice her into running her first 10k.  She has run several 5k’s and just needed some push to shall we say “level up”. Gave her my list of 10k races this June and told her I’d run the whole 10k with her in her chosen race or all 3 of them if she so chooses.  Well, she chose one. So we’re running the Rock and Run’s 10k  together.  Go go go sistah!

Two more 10k’s open…. hmmm…. let me think….

Goal-less June no more.  I’m on a mission… 

Small stuff but i hope i can help 10k dreamers out there take the next step… 

Nature Valley Run: 10k, 21k

Recovery, recovery, recovery. That should be my mindset after completing my first 42k.  So, reluctantly,  I asked Jun to sign me up just for a 10k when I originally wanted very much to run the 21k leg to complete the runrio trilogy of 21, 21 & 32.  Anyway, I decided not to risk injury and give my muscles a break and time to heal.

So race day neared.  The excitement wasn’t really there running a 10k.  I guess that’s just normal coming from a big HIGH finishing a full.   I was relaxed and I felt no pressure as I am very used to the distance.

Race day though before Jun went in the 21k corral, i asked him if i could race this one. He nonchalantly shrugged his shoulders and said “Okay lang.”With that I suddenly felt excited but still weighed the situation.  I didn’t want to hinder the healing of muscular microtears i was reading about.

So it became a very calculated race for me starting with warm-up pace in the first 3 kilometers gradually increasing pace  the next 2k and shifting to race mode in the next 4k while still stopping at every station to hydrate.  I didn’t bring my hydration jugs this time confident there would be enough water at the stations.  I wasn’t disappointed.  There was over-flowing water and isotonic drink.   I stopped at the last water station and prepared for the last kilometer.

But lo and behold, i find that i couldn’t really race the last kilometer. Running that final one was like squeezing into cracks in a wall of walkers.  The 5k and 10k runners are now sharing the road and we were numerous — bulk of the more than 11,000 runners who participated in this big event. So, i criss-crossed between walking bodies sometimes jogging behind them trying to find space where I could squeeze myself in until the final road to the  finish line provided relief of a wide expanse of relatively clear road and opportunity to sprint to the finish.  Happy to have improved my 10k PR at 1.06.48 (chip time) still.  Really a bonus for me. Happy, happy, happy!

I really don’t have a concrete plan for this run. I just wanted it to be  nice and  comfortable. It’s like a comeback training run after helping the pink sole train for her 1st marathon.

At the 21k corral, I saw Jay and Vener who are also just in for just a training run. Like me, they  also don’t have a particular plan and will just  go with the flow. We also saw Patrick who is ready to run for a new PR, while Javy and Jaymie will be pacing each other. We all stayed at the back and when the starting gun was fired. Vener, jay and I decided to run together while Jaymie and Javy had other plans so they went ahead of us while we started slowly. The three of us stayed with the pack slowly picking our pace and from time to time dared each other on who will take the lead and pace us.

Jay went ahead at 7k while Vener and I maintained our easy pace. I really felt there was  something different that day. I was tiring easily.  I don’t know if it was the HEAT, the HEART or the (H)AGE!!! hehe  Man, was it HOT!!!

Like the pink sole, it was  my first time not to don my hydration belt in a 21k race.  I was told that water stations will be better than the leg 1. Truly they had more than enough that you wouldn’t feel you’d be denying somebody a drink if you decided to pour a few cups to cool yourself.

HOT, HOT, HOT! Finished the race totally drenched from sweat.  It was one of those days when my body wouldn’t respond to any coaxing.

Despite the heat-battled racing day, the organizers were just able to alleviate the torturous heat with very long table set-up at the water station avoiding any lines for a much-needed drink.  A pint of Haagendaz ice cream for 21k finishers was a great add-on.  Even we, non-21k’ers, benefitted. Didn’t experience any lines at the loot bag claim area either.  Great job Runrio !  With a huge runner-turnout like this, almost anything can go wrong.  How the race was  conducted was a testament to good planning and good implementation.

As for the photovendo pics, we were waiting for it before we publish this post but unfortunately, I didn’t have any pics  at all.  Hmmm,  getting a picture of all 11,000+ runners must have been a real challenge.   Happy still…  We just requested this pictures from our running friend, Kulit Runner,   for this post.  Thanks Vimz!

Post-race activities:

Vima & me enjoying Jun's Haagendaz

Vima, me, Jay & Miguel at the finishline while waiting for Jun & Jaymie to finish.

Miguel, Jaymie (Bull Runner), Vima(Kulit Runner), me & Jun at the finishline ready to join other runner friends for Mark & Tiffin Parco's despedida at Paul Calvin's.

Looney Tunes Adventure

The last kids run we attended was the Mommy Milkshake Run last September 2009 which has been quite awhile already. Our girls have been craving for another one especially our little Mikka. Summer came but their Mommy(pink sole) was training for her first marathon so most of our weekends were dedicated to long runs. So they got excited when the Looney tunes active run was announced and the timing was perfect.

It’s the week after the  TBR marathon so no more long runs for a while. The pink sole will treat it as her first recovery  run…with the kids. It was Mikka who was so excited and nervous because she has two races that weekend. She goes ” Daddy, its my swim graduation  and swim race this Saturday and i will run next for the Looney tunes..”  Last  weekend was a busy one for her, indeed.

Everybody went to sleep early  Friday and everybody responded to one wake-up call the next day. By 6am, all were ready and off we went to meet Bugs Bunny and the rest of the Looney Tunes runners.

We’re letting our eldest daughter, Bea, do this post on our adventure with Bugs Bunny and the rest of the Looney Tunes and the some other looney characters. So enjoy!!!

Since my mom is  the pink sole, and my dad the blue sole, I think It’s appropriate that i be the purple sole. BLUE+PINK=PURPLE! (and also because it’s my favorite color).  I wanted to contribute a picture story about our experience in the Looney Tunes run, so here it is! Hope you enjoy

Kids all looking forward to the next adventure.

Super fun run with the kids!

As if the challenge is not enough in sharing a blog with my partner, we added another challenge.  haha

Welcome aboard Purple Sole!  What a wonderful development!  I am definitely looooving this!  I hope you enjoyed Bea’s blogging debut.

The Bottle School Run

Last year, a million young school children’s education was disrupted and about 2,800 pre-school classrooms were destroyed due to the typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng.

This year, through the pioneering efforts and innovative solutions of MYSHELTER spearheaded by the country’s noted social entrepreneur Illac Diaz, a one-of-kind run-for-a-cause dubbed as The Bottle School Run will be staged at Bonifacio Global City on June 13. All proceeds of this noteworthy race will be used to replace and rebuild a damaged school in Taguig using a ground-breaking architectural model – school classrooms mainly made of soda PET bottles.

Now, runners of all persuasions are invited to actively take part in a unique racing event to create a community-based, people-empowered solution which starts with building ecologically-sound and architecturally-revolutionary classrooms for children aspiring to pursue a path of literacy and knowledge.

The Bottle School Run is a distinctive race for seasoned and beginner runners, alike, as it provides them an opportunity to become advocate runners who could champion an honest cause, a solution that can change the world. It sets a symbolic backdrop where the chase of each participant runners for individual personal record enables beneficiary children chase their dream of obtaining education.

Registration for The Bottle School Run starts on May 29, Saturday and lasts until June 11, Friday. Registration centers are:

Planet Sports Trinoma (1pm to 8pm)

Planet Sports Alabang (1pm to 8pm)

New Balance Glorietta (1pm to 8pm)

Taguig City – Fort Bonifacio Satellite Office, 3^rd Flr, Market! Market! (9am to 5pm)

Distance categories are 3k, 5k, and 10k. Registration fees are P200 for 3k, and P300 for 5k and 10k. All participating runners are requested to bring two bottles with a 1.5 or 2 liter size of any soda brand on race day. Gunstart times are 5:30am (10k), 5:45am (5k), and 6:00am (3k).

For further race details, please visit www.bottleschoolproject.org. Inquiries may be directed to thebottleschoolrun@gmail.com or to Liza Fumar, Co-lead, The Bottle School Run, through 0927 284 54 36. Alternatively, interested parties may contact Edward Kho, Race Director, through 0915-9990187.

Celebrating My First Marathon (Sweet Dreams are Made of These)

Yes, it’s just not the race route providing pleasant and challenging surprises.  My family sprang a couple of them as well!  First, their surprise presence at the finish line which really overwhelmed me…

Here’s a picture story chronicling the time my family arrived at the race scene to surprise me to tears and the ensuing celebration that made my first marathon all the more memorable.

In Solenad, Nuvali…

THE WAIT…

5:30am.. i've been at it for 3 1/2 hours...

the finish line awaits ...

the matador waiting for the charging bulls...

sofie waits for mommy, my sister jen looking out for my grand entrance ...

mom and dad can hardly wait...

while Winter, the family cat, wait it out in the car...

.. a tired doggie wonders what all the fuss was about…

then, first runner checks in (congrats benny!) ...

Mikka asks: "is mommy near"

here, here.. just around the bend...

hey there's mom and dad!!!

come on mom, run!!!

Go Mom Go!

bliss at the finish!!!

marathoner at last!

surprise, surprise!!!

hahaha truly surprised!!!

Can't contain the laughter, can't contain the smiles. Nice one mom & dad!

mikka, did mommy do a good job?

precious pic with my family (thanks for this copy Ben & Jaymie!)

After letting go of emotions in seeing my family at the finish line, it was time for some happy celebrations with fellow dream marathoners, dream pacers, well-wishers and whoever… hahaha   I’d celebrate with anyone and everyone!!!

with Dr. Lora (2nd-time marathoner) who i briefly ran with in K15 ...

and Joy, a new friend made along the way... (thanks for this photo, joy & hubby)

yvette made sure i got a cup of water plus a cheer at K3 & K23

then there's team second wind, hector & mikey who provided amazing support at K39...

and Coach Rio who dished-out a big cheer for me at K34...

of course there was Iya and Drew who provided glam and fun...

and coach rio who provided... rhum? (haha couldn't find a rhyme)...

before he hammed it up with tessa and with drew on hand...

my prize --42k medal. Anyone interested gran per gram? haha

Well done, well done! Now it's time for some serious fun!

I thought that was it.  It was more than enough BUT the surprise is not over. In fact, it has just began..

Pink Sole:  Where are we having lunch?  Mom & Dad said they’ll go wherever we go.

Blue Sole :  Tagaytay.

Pink Sole : “Really? Nice!”

Blue Sole : “Overnight tayo.”

Pink Sole :  “Huh, talaga? But… I’ve no clothes.  You packed for me?”

Blue Sole :  “Siyempre, eh kami pa!”

Pink Sole :  ” Wow, saya! Galing-galing! Thanks! Mmmmwaaah!  Aloveet! Aloooveeeet!

So off to the mountains we went for some overnight family fun…

There was peace and  quiet moments …

… but  lots of clowning around, too!

These are the stuff that fill my heart with love and laughter …

Sweet dreams are made of these!

"the jump"

me and my solemate

What a weekend that has been.  Forever it will be… etched  in my heart…  colorfully painted in my mind.

This is the day that the Lord has made.  I will be glad and rejoice in it.

Dream BIG.  Run STRONG.

See you still  in the more exciting, much bigger and a lot longer marathon called LIFE. 

My First Marathon at TBRDM

How does one capture a perfect moment in words?

I’m no trained writer.  I feel utterly inadequate chronicling what I’ve experienced.  Words don’t seem enough.  I can’t seem to find the right adjectives to describe the mixture of emotions I felt in that race called The Bull Runner Dream Marathon — excited, happy, overwhelmed, grateful, surprised, amazed, tearfully happy?

My marathon experience was one I would like to relive over and over again. Yes, including the exhaustion and pain. For at the finishline  was total bliss!

PRE-RACE

Jun & I headed to Sta. Rosa  May 21, Fri, right after lunch.  It will just be Jun & myself as nobody could take the kids to Nuvali on race day.  My sister who I asked to bring the kids had prior commitments on the day of the race that she couldn’t get out of.  Anyway, I didn’t want to insist as I was also thinking how awkward it would be if I forced them to be there and I didn’t finish.  Just as well…

We checked-in in El Cielito at 3pm where we bumped into Jaymie & Neville on their way out to the race site.  An hour’s rest, early dinner 5pm  at the Paseo, a quick peek at the race site and brief chat with Jaymie & Edward and we’re off heading back to the hotel for a planned early knock-off at 7pm and a wake-up call at 12mn that would give me 5 hours sleep.

That was not to be had though.  The mariposas in my stomach wouldn’t let me rest.  I guess Jun had butterflies albeit smaller in his for we both slept at around 8pm and found him awake already at 10pm. I knew he was a little nervous for me.  The blue sole had been edgy the whole day and I even kidded him to chill while driving to Sta. Rosa “Hon, you’re nervous din ano?”  He momentarily stopped and only gave a smile.  Hah, confirmed! He’s nervous for me.  I thought that was sweet.

So with 2 hours light sleep, we geared-up and proceeded to Nuvali.  We thought we were early but the place was already busy and charged.  The excitement was evident everywhere.

We stayed a while at the Dream Marathon Support area where dream chasers Banggi and Bobby were lacing up.  Mommy Kim arrived and we proceeded to the starting line.  I was one of the first few runners in the corral where I was joined later on by Dra. Lora, a 2nd-time marathoner and her hubby who will be pacing her. We were early so there were a lot of opportunity for stretching, chatting and of course, some photo ops.

Jun sending me off at the Starting Line

Coach John, Nana Mayen, Mommy Kim, Jun, me, Dra. Lora & hubby

Ready... get set...

MY FIRST MARATHON EXPERIENCE:

A brief, inspiring talk from race director, Jim Lafferty with Jaymie and a  heart-felt prayer from Team Logan and we were ready.  At exactly 2am, we, approximately 250 dream marathoners were off.  It was a happy send-off.  The runners were charged and inspired and I’m pretty sure being first-time/second-time  marathoners only, are pretty much nervous too on how each one will fare in this new territory.

KM 1-10

I started slow as Jun painfully reminded me.  I just tried to warm-up my legs with a slow pace trying to get my rhythm.  This wasn’t the time to speed up so I let my legs and body get used to the beat.  Just as well for the first 2kms took us to a route across the highway where only fog lamps lighted our way.  Some parts were dark so I took out my teeny-weeny led-lighted flashlight.  I took a peek at my Garmin and found I was within range of my slow pace.

Going back to Solenad rounding the commercial area, happy Takbo peeps  cheered runners on.  They were a happy bunch and I loved their cheering!  Great job Takbo.ph! Thanks to Yvette and company for the hearty cheer!

Going towards the Nuvali Road, was where I first felt I was in a marathon.  It was dark.  Only  streetlamps provided some light.  The pack was thinning.  I was on my own.

I felt good though and has found my rhythm.  I dutifully took my gel at 8k as planned.

Then the surprise… the turn towards the bird sanctuary turned out to be a long 2km trail.  Uugh, no runner immediately before nor behind me but runners on their way back would be passing me from time to time.  There were marshals along the way but still there would be long stretches when I would be alone.  I was so thankful for that tiny flashlight Jun bought me.  It lighted my path and allowed me to run still albeit slowly and carefully.  But, I must say there was no instance i felt unsafe.  I almost tripped twice though but that’s just the “lampa” in me. hahaha

Picture this…. only, it’s pitch black at 3am…

2km dirt road --- spicing up the route!

gravel trail to the gazebo turn-around --- 100% walk

KM 11-20

Guess what?  A short but uphill gravel path awaits at the turn-around.  This one I walked 100% while drinking  some gatorade. This race has many surprises, indeed.

Going back that same dark trail road, nature began calling.  I knew there would be portalets at the turn-around point.  I guess that thought made me ran faster to it.  hahaha  Besides, that long stretch after the trail road was my favorite part of the race route.  One  where I always felt a need to run faster even during our simulation run.  But wait… another surprise awaits — another trail road!!!

Yes, yet another dirt road with a short incline at the turn-around point.  The portalets near the turn-around provided much-needed relief.  Lost 4 1/2 minutes there as the OC in me made sure everything was okay before and after I did my thing.  Brought my tissue paper but the sight of rolls of toilet paper and alcohol was very much welcomed.

With a lighter, more comfortable feeling, I surged on and stepped on the first timing mat at Km 13. Timed in at 1:54.03. The next kilometer was mostly uphill going back the paved road before the next water station at the corner turn.  Caught up with Dra. Lora and hubby and ran with them a while.  She mentioned how this is is not really a newbie route and felt like a more difficult race than Standard Chartered Hongkong because it was  dark, had a rolling terrain and there were trails. ” Woh, really???”  The surprise trails especially the one towards the bird sanctuary was really an awesome experience.  It really added spice to the route.

As I ran on ahead, I passed the Second Wind booth again and again received a hearty cheer from Hector and Mikey.  Thanks guys! You were great!

The race route was actually full of hearty cheerers — the pacers, the race marshals and the Nuvali security men dished out pleasant greetings and encouragements.  Fellow marathoners would often exchange smiles, nods of acknowledgement, waves and cheers.  People were just eager to encourage one another.  What a positive environment.  I loooove it!

Passed the 16km marker and I remembered to take my 2nd gel at this point.  Urgh, intake delayed by 4kms.  Garmin km reading stopped, you see, so I wasn’t able to monitor distance ran and relied on the kilometer markers. It was here that i felt pain in my left hip. Ooh oh… It’s way too early to feel any pain please.  I tried massaging and applying pressure on the area while I ran.  I tried changing my stride, too. Pain still there but was still very manageable. As I saw the Evoliving structure, my pace quickened.  I am always excited seeing that place as I associate it with finishing a run.

KM 21-30

Hah, almost there.  I can see cheerers again!  Most of all, I relish the thought that Jun will be running with me now after fulfilling his marshaling duties.

As planned, he met me after the 2nd round at the commercial area and paced me starting the 2nd loop.  I’ve covered 23kms now, he advised.  He checked how I was, gave me a cup of gatorade to drink, poured some water over my head and took my hydration belt from me. That was a relief!!!  I think he was relieved, too, that my legs still felt good.  I was pacing myself well and hydrating at every water station.  Darkness was receding now and the sky was getting bright.  The 2nd trip to the bird sanctuary trail road felt better in broad daylight and I began chronicling to Jun my experience running this road in the dark.  A cold drink at the gravel road towards the gazebo turn-around awaits.  Mayen was stretching her legs there as she was having cramps.  After asking how she was, we ran on.   I advised him that I felt like going for a restroom break again.  Wehehe I know this will be another laughing matter with the kids when this race is over.  hahaha  Thankfully, the uncomfortable feeling passed.   I felt so full though taking in all the gels, water and gatorade but I knew I had to.  Turning right from the trail, Jun fetched me an icy sponge as I continued to run on.

KM 31-35

A spiritual experience…

31km … 32k …  I was still good to go and I was just overwhelmingly grateful.  I felt so light and alive I just felt like giving thanks to my King.  I was praying.  I was singing praises.  During a long stretch of road, I pictured Him with outstretched arms waiting for me to run to Him.  I did!  My legs quickened without effort.  I barely felt my feet touching the road.  It was an overwhelming experience.  I felt my eyes watering. I couldn’t help raising my hands in praise as I ran.

Whom have I in heaven but You.

There is nothing on earth I desire besides You.

My heart and my strength, many times they fail.

But there is one truth that always will prevail…

God is the strength of my heart

God is the strength of my heart

God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Forever.

Truly, the Lord of Lords lifted me up and carried me through this journey.  I knew whatever happens, He is with me.

KM 36-40

Did I get carried away running that fast?  ha ha ha! I started to feel some pain in my right calf and my left hamstrings.  A bearable discomfort. Good thing another set of my fave dream chasers Bobby and Banggi armed with spray-on pain reliever were stationed not too far ahead. I got a special spraying from Bobby with a GO GO GO cheer from Banggi.

Slowed down considerably at this 5 kilometers stretch conserving my energy. The heat was starting to bother me  and  Jun made sure I get a regular dousing of water.

Then a car of cheerers passed us cheering and enthusiastically shouting my name “Go, go, go Mariel! Galing!” That provided a great boost!  Thanks so much Edward, Raymund, Ella and company!

Jim Lafferty patrolled the route, too, shouting encouragements “Remember, you’re now a marathoner! You’re doing great! ”

I’m sure a lot of runners got some lift and ran faster with those encouragements.

But, this stretch felt looooong.   I see the Evoliving building and I know it’ll be over soon.  Yes, I’m going to finish this!  I’ll be a marathoner before lunch just as Jim Lafferty reminded us at the starting line. Checking on me,  I think the blue sole  felt relieved I was still strong going into the final stretch.  He egged me on…

FINAL 2KM

The Solenad commercial are was within reach.  I knew that just behind that is the finish line.  I increased my pace with Jun leading me … rounding the commercial area with around 400 meters to go … we were speeding up …

“Come on, come on!”  Jun was pushing me. ” Do it for the kids … think about the kids …”

I was pounding the pavement with all I’ve got with the blue sole right beside me.

Then, a pleasant bomb…

Just as we saw the finish line Jun  dropped a bomb …” go for the kids …. go, go, go! … andyan sila Bea … andyan silang lahat!” and dropped behind so I couldn’t ask him.

Huh?…   WHAAAAT?!?  Sinong lahat???  Successive questions, confusing thoughts raised through my mind as I raced to the finish line.  Scouring the faces ahead as I ran, I saw my eldest daughter Bea, then  Mikka, then Sofia.  Wow, what a very pleasant  surprise!

marathoner after 5 hours 23 minutes!!!

But that’s not all, as I crossed the line and I saw my sister Jen… then my Mom…  and  my Dad!

You’re all here!!!  HAHAHA  What a surprise!  You’re all here!!! BUHUHUHUHU  You’re all here….

so surprised to see my whole family there I couldn't contain the tears as my sister Jen welcomed me at the finish line.

Dad and Mom (partially covered) engulfing me in a tight hug. (thanks raymund for this pic!)

I chased my dream and made it reality...

... with the help of my dream chaser, my solemate ...

... in a dreamy race envisioned by Jaymie, The Bull Runner...

... with my family as witness. What more can I ask for?

I couldn’t have asked for a better marathon finish story… That was really beyond words!!!

I didn’t expect anyone to be there.  I was content to share whatever triumph I would have with just the blue sole.  Little did I know that a conspiracy was hatched behind my back weeks ago  intending to pleasantly shock me with my family’s presence and more!

To my daughters Bea, Sofia and Mikka, you’re my inspiration, our precious treasures.  I love it that you love our running! love you 3 soooo very much!

To my coach, pacer, solemate, hubby and friend, thanks Hon for training and coaching me. Your continuous encouragements, support and guidance truly made a difference.  I couldn’t have endured the long hours of weekend trainings without you running with me.  You were witness to all the preparations.  You endured too as you also woke up in the wee hours to run LSD’s with me.  That special support encouraged me to train and prepare well for this race.  You helped me run strong and helped give me an enjoyable first marathon experience.  You took good care of me out there. A big big thanks! Thanks a bunch  for cooking up the best surprise ever!  Love you much!!!

To my sister Jen, co-conspirator to this grand surprise, thanks so much for the support, for taking the time  and trouble to give me a memorable marathon and post race celebration!  luvyah sis!

To my mom and dad, my greatest fans, love you guys! mmmwah!

To my Lord, my God, my source of strength, without whom this wouldn’t have been possible. Love you, Lord.

NEXT:  Happy post-race pics and an even happier surprise…

Chasing a Marathon Dream

Last weekend, I chased the sun.  Tomorrow, I’ll be chasing a dream…

Just one day more… The hard work is over. This week’s game-plan was really just to get enough rest  and ready my legs, my whole body for the pounding it will endure and just as equally prepare my mind, heart and spirit for the big challenge ahead — my first full marathon (42.195kms) at THE BULL RUNNER DREAM MARATHON in  Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna.   I have been trying hard to be a good girl — no late working nights, lots and lots of water, stretching, deep tissue massage  and lots of pasta!  Uugh, I think I gained a couple of pounds just this week.

One thing good going for me is that the ITB tightness  I have been experiencing since I started running my 21k last December decided to give me a break.  Yes!!! I have been running pain-free since 2 weeks ago.  It was an unexpected bonus as I was already prepared to just manage the pain which usually creeps in as early as 8k.  I am expectantly praying it doesn’t show up again on race day.  My race then would be a lot more enjoyable.

Tomorrow is  such a BIG day for me.  With barely 1 day to go,  I now have mariposas in my stomach.

To my fellow TBR Dream Marathoners, have a good, memorable, enjoyable run!!!

Looking forward to celebrating with you all this Saturday.

God be with us all!

See you at the race!

I have but one reminder to the pink sole –  SHAPE.

Start slow. Use your first few kilometers as your warm-up. Conserve your energy until you have finally adjusted to your rhythm.

Hydrate well. Not too much, not too soon and neither too late. Water stations are in their locations for a purpose. They remind you to hydrate.

Absolute control of your strength. Only you can determine your strength.  Sometimes you will feel okay and want to speed up a little than your planned pace.  Always look ahead.  Think if you can give it all now or save for later.  If you think you need to slow down, then slow down. If you think you can give more, give it only when you feel you can do it till the end.

Persevere to the finish.  Think only of good things.  Remember your purpose,  to whom you dedicate your run. You trained for this race and sacrificed a lot to be able to reach your dream.

Enjoy every minute of your run.  Sing praise songs as you normally do.  Remember THE SOURCE of your strength.

This is it! reckoning time.  You’ve paid your dues.  You’ve put in the hours — the very early morning runs and the late night ones. You’ve endured the pounding, the pain and even the heat.  I was witness to all these.  There’s only one thing left to do.  Run the race and run it that you may win your prize.  Chase your dream and make it reality.  I believe in you.

Aaaw sweet!

We Chased the Sun!

Race Review:

.

.

Good Job!

1.  Refreshingly icy cold water filled in plastic cups

2.  Prompt race start

3.  Sufficient marshalls

4. Accurate kilometer markers

5. Timing Chip with Run Pix

6. Photovendo

7. Singlet and nice Team Manila finisher’s shirt

8. Generous freebies from Neutrogena

9.  Summit water & isotonic drink post-race

10.  Early availability of race results.

Ooh Oh!

1. Water ran out in the last water station of the 15k event.  Carbonated isotonic drink available though.

This race has so many pluses we almost forgot we missed water at the last station.   Very good race!

Our Race Experience:

It was 4:30am.  Didn’t hear the alarm ring.  GRRRR… We’re late!!!

I hurriedly woke Mariel up and made sure she didn’t snooze right back to sleep. We were off to a frenzied time of preparing to go.  A hurried breakfast, john and bath and we’re off…

Phew, made it with time to spare for a restroom break for the pink sole and a little stretching for me at the corral.

I joined the 15k race with the plan to start  slowly  getting my rhythm back to my  training mode after helping Mariel with her  full marathon training.  I’ve been keeping her company during her runs that I’ve slowed down my pace considerably.  She relishes teasing me about it telling friends I am getting de-trained. hahaha It may be true as she had at times ran ahead of me during our long runs.

I found this race an overall good experience marred only with my encounter with an inconsiderate security guard on patrol who did not slow down in an intersection as I was crossing.  Oh well, might be a night guard lacking sleep eager to go home.  I’ll just think of it that way.

Great race still. Congrats to Finishline and Neutrogena for putting up an enjoyable race.

Yes, I chased the sun but it chased me back!  HAHAHA

Eyes trying hard to snap open and mind still spinning from dream-state, i woke up with Jun’s gentle but very firm “We’re late. We have to get up. Now.”

Got-up I did propping myself up awake.  It seemed all a breeze and we were off.  Bath, breakfast with  nary a visit to the john nor any stretching done.  Hah, as Bards would say, “Bahala na si Batman!”  Off we went…

Jun and I didn’t run together this time.  It was supposed to be a very easy run for me as I am on taper mode.  My last race before my big M day.  So I let him go as it would be a slow easy run for me.  I did an even pace all throughout taking advantage of the downhills to have fun and make up for my slower uphills.  From the race results, 5k splits were all around the 33-34 minute range.   Saw Bobby (Cruise Control) though at the last km who got me sprinting to the finish.  Hahaha So much for easy… Thanks Bobby, that was fun but I’m err.. supposed to be on taper… oh well, PR on my 15k at 1.40.06(chip time)  so who’s complaining? hahaha

I really enjoyed this race!  Breakfast banter in Kabisera with friends made it all the more fun.  

Run with Looney Tunes

This is sooo cool! I love this poster ad!  According to Coach Rio, this is only the 2nd time the Looney Tunes characters shared a frame with earthlings!  The first one being with Michael Jordan.  Remember that?

Cooler still would be the race itself.  Obviously meant to attract the kids, I’m pretty sure moms and dads are equally excited.  Another opportunity for a family run! YEY!!!

Read on…

Here’s  the official press release:

Looney Tunes characters are active by nature. Their high-energy humour continues to thrill audiences young and old.  And because of their active perpetual motion, they’re one of the few character brands that stand for an active lifestyle.

Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) launched the Looney Tunes Active! as its    contribution to global efforts to promote an active and healthier lifestyle for children. Looney Tunes Active! aims to encourage an active lifestyle among its target market, primarily children, and their families, by engaging in sports and other physical activities while having fun at the same time.  Looney Tunes Active! shows kids that being active is cool!

In 2009, WBCP, through its Philippine agent, Global Brands Group, launched a school tour where running clinics were conducted by locally renowned coach Rio de la Cruz, in partnership with the Physical Education and Sports Clubs of participating schools in Metro Manila. This culminated with the first Looney Tunes Active! Fun Run in SM Mall of Asia on August 30, 2009.  The event was attended by almost 1,000 participants, consisting of children, parents and sports enthusiasts.

This year, WBCP will launch a sequel to the Looney Tunes Active! Fun Run, this time in SM Megamall on May 29, 2010, and SM City Cebu on June 5, 2010.  Acting as race directors are Rio dela Cruz, fresh from the Boston Marathon, and Noy Jopson, Philippines Iron Man, respectively.

To Register for the Looney Tunes Active! Fun Run Events

Register in Timex, SM Megamall, from April 26 to May 22, 2010, for the SM Megamall race; and Timex, Ayala Center Cebu and Watch Republic, SM Cebu, from April 26 to May 30, 2010, for the SM Cebu Race.

The following registration fees apply:

Retail Promotion

From April 26 to May 30, 2010, a minimum P500 purchase of Looney Tunes products in all SM Department Stores Character Shops, will entitle you to a free Looney Tunes Active! race singlet to encourage you to start running!

Asian Dream Race Promo

Hear ye!  Hear ye!

One lucky runner from the Philippines  gets a chance to race for FREE at the KL Marathon this coming June 27, 2010!

You only have from May 14- 31 to get a chance so read on and head on to RUNNR Store …

Newton Running, the world’s top brand of running footwear, unveils the Asian Dream Race Promo! This special promo offers runners a chance to win 1 of 7 race entries to the Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon on June 27, 2010 at Malaysia. The Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon 2010 is one of the biggest running events in Southeast Asia that will bring many running enthusiasts from all over the world to the Malaysian capital.

Promo Mechanics:

For every purchase of Newton Running in cash or through a Standard Chartered credit card, the buyer is entitled to one (1) raffle coupon that will qualify as one (1) entry.  Customers should fill out the coupon and drop it in designated drop boxes in Runnr stores.  Deadline of submission of entries is on May 31, 2010.   Winners will be drawn on June 3, 2010, and prizes can be claimed at the store where they bought their Newton Running shoes.  Promo period is from May 14 to 31, 2010.

More entries submitted will entitle the customer to more chances of winning. Prizes are transferable. Winners will be notified through registered mail and phone call. The winner will be given fifteen (15) days upon receipt of notification to claim the prize. After the 15-day claiming period, the unclaimed prize will be forfeited in favor of RUNNR (Quorum International Inc.)  Winners must bring two (2) valid forms of identification such as Driver’s license, SSS card, Passport, other government issued IDs, to claim the prize.

Participating Newton Running products are Gravity, Motion, Sir Isaac and Lady Isaac, and Motion All Weather.

For more details on Newton’s Asian Dream Race Promo log on to www.runnr.com.ph, www.tobys.com or contact their head office at 642-4414 to 15.  You may also check out the RUNNR and Newton social networking sites on Face Book thru www.facebook.com/RUNNRstore and www.facebook.com/newtonrunningphils