All Systems Go for NYC

Only a week before ING NYC Marathon 2010 and we’re about to go to get acclimatized.  What an exciting time for us… our first trip to  the US of A, running the biggest marathon in the world!

Long runs all done.  Taper mode for me pushed to the limit with very little mileage due to colds and coughs.

I know, i know, what a bad time to get sick.  I’m taking all the necessary steps to come out of this — 2 days off from work, mega dose of vitamin C, colds and cough medication, antibiotics, water, pineapple juice, chicken soup, etc.

Family in NYC say weather forecast for the next week, all throughout marathon week,  is very cold… BRRRRR….  I hope to be well enough to battle the cold on marathon day.  I am hoping the marathon spirit and the earlier training will pull me through this.  I am hoping to do better than 5:22 during my first mara at  TBR Dream Marathon but then again this is a tougher course.  I’ll be happy with just enjoying what might be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me.  Praying all systems will really be a GO come Nov 7th.  Lord, HELP!

One thing for sure though… can’t wait to have a fabulous time in New York, New York!!! 🙂

Can’t believe it’s almost here— my dream marathon, the ING NYC Marathon 2010.  Preparations have been quite rushed on booking flight schedules, coordinating with family, researching and preparing clothes and gears for cold-weather running and going around.

Our marathon will be sandwiched with lots of sight-seeing and not too much shopping for the pink sole, i hope,  We really got to make sure we   squeeze in a couple of short runs in between.

Truly praying for a great NYC marathon experience for us both.  What a great privilege… God be with us…

Camsur Marathon 2010: Final Call

It is Camsur Marathon week.  Are you registered?  Are you all geared up?

Not ready for a full marathon but want to go see Camsur and the now famous Camsur Watersports Complex (CWC) and participate in the festivities?  Why not join the shorter events — 3k, 5k , 10k and 21k.  You can still enjoy a good run and of course, the nice place.

You still have a chance to register for Camsur’s first ever marathon and for all the other shorter distance events.  Registration still on-going now only in CWC, Camsur.

For more details of the race details,  visit www.camsurmarathon.com

Run strong  and have fun!!!

Run Unleashed

Got an email from Nike which caught my attention with subject title “Allow Yourself to Run Unleashed”.

I pictured a long, spirited run across picture-perfect fields with nary a care in the world or along a tree-lined perfectly asphalted road with the wind gently blowing against face (of course in my dream customized lunar glide+)!

I imagine a  100%, full-blast, surge on the road (riding my resurrected Nike Zoom Start)!

We wonder, what are people’s  idea of running unleashed?  It would be fun to know!

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!

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. 🙂

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.   🙂

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

Are You Ready to Chase the Sun?

Are you ready to chase the sun?  It’s just a week away…

You know how it is,  fair-skinned people want to tan and darker-skinned ones want to be fairer.  Haaay, a case of people always wanting what they don’t have.

I used to be a sun-worshiper in my youth.  I would play tennis at noontime and lie-down on the beach for hours hoping to get dark.  I used tanning lotions instead of sunblocks.  You see, I’m one of those who doesn’t get dark that easily so it really took a lot of effort on my part to get a really nice tan.  Anyways, those days have long been over for me. I have learned long ago to be comfortable in my own skin, appreciate it and protect it.

Taking up running as a sport however again exposed me to the harmful rays of the sun in training and in races.  I’ve since learned to use sun-block lotions to protect my skin.  I sure wouldn’t let the sun stop me from training now.  So, I’m chasing the sun again!  See you at the race!

Opposites do attract.  It’s the other way around for me.  The sun has always been chasing me and with good results.  Look… it does show!  hahaha

I always have fun under the sun.  So run I will and let the sun chase me.  Don’t forget your sunblock!  I know I won’t.

Here’s official press release furnished us by Finishline:

Chase the Sun at the Neutrogena Run!

A true runner will never let the intense summer heat get in the way of a good workout. But let’s face it. It would be a lot safer for her skin if she had something to protect her against damaging UVA and UVB rays. On Sunday, May 16, 2010, 4000 runners will finally get the chance to run under the summer sun with maximum sun protection. The Neutrogena Chase the Sun Run in Fort Bonifacio is the first road race organized by a beauty brand. A tribute to the woman who can sport beautiful, summer skin and strut her stuff as an active runner, the Chase the Sun Run will give runners the chance to experience firsthand how Neutrogena takes care of their skin.

For all their sun protection matters, runners need only look for the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer product line. This line of lotions and moisturizers offers runners superior sun protection through the Neutrogena-patented Helioplex technology. While other sunblocks are only effective in blocking out UVB rays, Helioplex technology delivers photo-stable UV protection that blocks both burning UVB rays and cancer-causing UVA rays from penetrating the skin. The Ultra Sheer product line comes in two convenient variants: Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ and Waterlight Lotion SPF 50+ PA+++. Dry Touch Sunblock quickly gets absorbed into the skin, and its waterproof and non-pore clogging features are perfect for the active runner. Waterlight is an incredibly lightweight facial sun care product that is easy to spread, velvety, not greasy, and not shiny.  At the Chase the Sun Run, all runners will get the opportunity to sample both Ultra Sheer products, and testify to the superior sun protection that only Neutrogena can provide.

Runners can register at R.O.X. in Bonifacio High Street until May 12. Registration fee for the 3k run is P400.00, and only 1000 slots are available. Registration fee for the 5k run is P550.00, and 1250 slots are available. P600.00 is the registration fee for the 10k run, and 1000 slots are open. Finally, P650.00 is the registration fee for the 15k run, and this leg is open to only 750 runners.

Freebies:

In addition to the Chase the Sun singlet, runners can also look forward to a filled-to-the-brim Johnson & Johnson lootbag and an awesome finishers’ shirt made exclusively by Team Manila. Furthermore, cash prizes await the winners of each distance from the male and female categories. But the gifts don’t stop there! Upon finishing the run, participants, friends, and family members can spend the morning treating themselves to activities and games sponsored by participating Johnson & Johnson brands, Carefree, Modess, Listerine, Johnson’s Body Care, and of course, Neutrogena.

For more details, runners may visit www.finishline.ph or call 703-1736.

On Sunday, May 16 at Fort Bonifacio, get ready to Chase the Sun with Neutrogena!

OCAI Run – A Rare Race in Ortigas Center

The Ortigas Center Association, Inc. (OCAI) has decided to partner with the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center (RCOC) to hold the Run for the benefit of the various humanitarian projects of RCOC.  OCAI and RCOC have in turn joined hands with Balance Lifestyle Fitness Club of Discovery Suites to promote the South Pole Expedition 2010, the very first expedition to be undertaken by a Filipino extreme outdoor sportsman and quintessential climate change advocate, Coach Bobby del Castillo. The expedition to the 1,170 kilometer trek through the sub-zero icelands of the South Pole, where the much-feared climate change has had the most drastic effects, not only aims to show the world the adverse effects of climate change, it also hopes to bring as many prayers and pledges with him for peace, environmental awareness, and environmental involvement.

With Rudy Biscocho as the run’s race director, all the people behind the event are aiming to accomplish the goals of the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center and Balance Lifestyle Fitness, and thus for the first time, this 27th of June, 2010, at 5:00 in the morning, more than four thousand (4,000) runners will run along the streets of Ortigas Center and surrounding areas, for the 3k, 5k, and 10k distances of the first ever OCAI RUN. While on the night before the running event, June 26, 2010, there will be a kick-off benefit concert at the Discovery Suite’s Frontage, where the admission is free.

All the proceeds of the OCAI Run and the benefit concert will go to the humanitarian projects of the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center and the South Pole Expedition 2010.

Chase the Sun – The Neutrogena Run

Such an appropriate name for a Summertime run! Don’t miss this one!

CHASE THE SUN: The Neutrogena Run 2010
May 16, 2010
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
3km/5km/10km/15km
http://www.finishline.ph

REGISTRATION VENUES:

Regular Registration: April 19 to May 2, 2010:
•Planet Sports – Trinoma
•New Balance – Glorietta, Shangri-la Mall
•Athlete’s Foot – Alabang Town Center
•Secondwind Store – 88 Maginhawa St. Teachers Vilage Diliman QC
•R.O.X. – Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

Late Registration: May 3-9, 2010:
•R.O.X. – Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

Download REGISTRATION FORM

Nature Valley Run 2010 – RunRio Trilogy Leg 2

Are you ready for Leg 2?  We sure are!

Go get your race packets now ‘coz they’re selling like hotcakes!

EVENT DETAILS

• Event: NATURE VALLEY RUN 2010 (RUNRIO TRILOGY LEG 2)
• Race Day: May 30, 2010
• Race Venue: 28th Street (beside NBC Tent), Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

REGISTRATION VENUES

Early Registration Period: April 15 to May 12, 2010

• SM TIMEX Shops – North EDSA, South Mall, San Lazaro, Glorietta
• Watch Republic – Robinson’s Galleria
• R.O.X. – Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

Late Registration: May 13 to May 20, 2010

• R.O.X. – Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig ONLY

Online Registration: April 15 to May 12, 2010

• www.runrio.com

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Registration may end earlier than announced deadline. (Registration kits may run out before May 20.)
• Singlets will be given to the first 7000 registrants. There will be no guaranteed size of singlets for late registrants
• Disposable timing chips will be used by all participants during the race.
• Medals and RunRio shirts will be given to all 21km finishers.
• Nature Valley loot bags and bars will be given upon finishing the race.
• For questions, contact the secretariat at (02) 703 1736.
• For further details, visit www.naturevalleyrun2010.com

Coach Rio, Star Inside-Out

The guy has not changed at all.  He is still the same Rio dela Cruz we knew from the first time we had the pleasure to know him as a personal coach and friend up to this time when his star is fast rising.  What can we say…   He deserves all the success.

We watched  him tirelessly posing and smiling with runners who wanted their pictures taken with him. He gamely got my camera phone when we kiddingly called him to take our group picture after posing for fans one after the other.  We laud his efforts to help his community when calamity struck even when he himself was affected. We watched and heard how he is still the same Rio to his roaster of coaches and other runrio staff.

We, ourselves,  attest to this unchanged persona.  He may be bigger than life now, busy as a bee but he remains to be the same ol’ friend we know.    He is no saint, that’s for sure! He can lash out and defend himself when someone is trying to pull one over him.  One thing we know,  he is one guy striving to be better.

Kudos to the man who’s feet is firmly planted  on the ground!  We pray that the fame change you only for the better. We’re so very proud of you, for life’s challenges you have hurdled, for your extra-ordinary accomplishments and most especially, for the person that you continue to be.

May you continue to be a blessing to others as you continue to be blessed!!!  God bless you more!!!

Coach Rio just finished an impressive 3.00.15 Boston Marathon finish. May 3-minute emergency restroom break pa yan ha!   What’s next,  the Olympics?

Cheers!!! 🙂

NatGeo Earth Day Run 2010

In celebration of Earth Day’s 40th Anniversary, National Geographic Channel is excited to announce its very first NatGeo Earth Day Run on April 18, 2010 at the SM Mall of Asia. This fun run is open to all interested runners who are willing to participate in the 3k, 5k and 10k races.

Proceeds will go to building sustainable eco villages to withstand environmental disasters like last year’s Ondoy flooding and to support a global competition to rebuild climate resilient communities designed for a greener environment.

Through this event, NatGeo aims to promote Earth Day and its global mission to inspire people to care about the planet. Help save the environment. Join the NatGeo Earth Day Run!

Registration Details:

Fees:
· 3k – P500
· 5k – P600
· 0k – P700
This includes a free limited edition NatGeo Earth Day Run technical shirt. Proceeds will support Design Against the Elements Competition in bringing innovative solutions to climate vulnerable communities in developing countries.

Ways to Register:

Online Registration : March 8 to April 4 www.natgeorun.com
Courier charges for race kits apply to online registrants
P100 – within Metro Manila
P150 – outside of Metro Manila

Cash Registration: March 8 to April 11
Nike Outlet in Bonifacio High Street
Timex Outlet in SM North Edsa and SM Mall of Asia

Race day:

5:30AM – Registration
6:00AM – Gun start for all races
8:30AM – Announcement of Winners

Those who are not participating in the races can still come. Breakfast will be served and interviews with the winners will be held after the awarding ceremonies.

For more details, please call Agatep Associates, Inc. at 635-9355-60 and look for Glaiza Porneso (loc 160); fax: 635-0516.

Globe-Ayala Land Run for Home 2010 – LAST DAY!!!

No doubt you’ve heard or read something about the  Globe -Ayala Land Run for Home 2010!  If there’s one thing we want to tell you now, it is this…  IT’S THE LAST DAY OF REGISTRATION.  SIGN UP NOW!!!

Last year’s edition brought us the first use of a timing chip in local shores with Runpix analysis.

Once again Globe brings us a pioneering development in the race scene.  For this year’s Globe run, runners will be treated to an exciting interface with the very popular social networking apps, Facebook.

How would you like your Facebook friends to know how you did in the race immediately after crossing the finish line without having to open your laptops or needing to access your cellphones?  Would you rather that your friends and/or family see you cross the finishline via livestream?  Exciting right?

After every race, we go home with our 3 daughters eagerly awaiting news about our run.  What distance we ran, how we did, what time we finished and so on.  We would be telling them details of the race even before we reach the door.  How Daddy cramped, how Mommy needed a restroom break again in the middle of the race and of course how we finished our races.

With this year’s Globe Run-for-Home, they don’t have to just settle for words, they will actually be able to see us finish our races!  They are very excited!!!  Our eldest daughter would surely have her Facebook open to see our finishing times even before we get home.  I’m sure the family will be having a different kind of bantering this time as our children  will actually be seeing us running to the finish in the comfort and safety of home.  I would sure try to remember to smile at the finish lest they see what our daughter Bea and I call “the face of agony”  HAHAHA

For RACE DETAILS, read on…

The Cause:  Community Development

• Globe is donating a portion of the proceeds to Habitat for Humanity Philippines, with the common goal of building communities through volunteerism.
• Habitat for Humanity is a global organization dedicated to uplifting people’s lives by providing them affordable and durable housing.   In partnership with Habitat for Humanity Philippines, Globe will support the construction of new housing units to address the need for resettlement of the informal settlers from the Pasig riverbanks, a project initiated by Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig (KBIP).  Run for Home 2010 will help fund the construction of houses in Bayanijuan sa Calauan, a 100-hectare resettlement community in Barangay Dayap, Calauan, Laguna. This initiative is part of the Ayala Group of Companies’ commitment to build communities for those in need.
• Globe has been working with Habitat For Humanity since its arrival in the Philippines in the year 2000. Globe and its employees have built homes in Taguig, Mandaluyong, Batangas, Cebu and Davao over the years.

The Venue:  Makati CBD

This year you and your pals can share your proud day at Globe-Ayala Land Run for Home 2010. On March 21, 2010, runners of every ilk — serious athletes, health buffs and weekend warriors alike — will converge at Makati City’s Ayala Triangle Garden to join one of the biggest urban runs of the year.  With a route winding through the premium Makati Central Business District, casual runners can cruise the 3k or 5k routes, while the more competitive can test their mettle with the 10k or 15k.  As for the hardcore runners, they can get their game on with a 21k half-marathon.

The Runners:  Showbiz Celebrities Included

Last year’s Run for Home event, held at the Bonifacio Global City, was one of the first races to breach the 6000-runner mark. And that day in 2009 was peppered with personalities such as business scions Fernando Zobel De Ayala and Lance Gokongwei, political powerhouse Senator Pia Cayetano, celebrities Christine Reyes and Samboy Lim, and power couples like  Anton and Nina Huang,  Paco Sandejas and Christine Jacob, and Anthony Pangilinan and Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan.

The Discount:  Up to P2000 discount for group registration

This year, Globe lets you bring along your whole brood by offering special packages for group registration. In 2010, Run for Home will give out discounts of up to P 1000 for groups who register for the shorter runs, while groups who sign up for the longer distances can get up to P 2000 off their registration fees.

The Treats:

If you’ve got well-wishing non-runners in your party, they can wait for you at the Ayala Triangle Garden, noshing on finger foods and drinks, or getting online via Wi-Fi to tweet news and post live Facebook ® updates.

In a unique bonus, race kits come with the first-ever environmentally-friendly singlet made from recycled PET bottles. And when you cross that finish line, your success will automatically be posted on your Facebook page, thanks to the electronic timing chip provided by Run for Home, which tracks your progress to the second. In the days following the run, you can check your race photos and post-run results and analysis on Globe’s website, so you can see how you and your pals did and relive the moment you powered past that finish line.

Add in the very worthy cause of providing Filipinos with affordable housing, with Globe and Ayala Land donating a portion of the race proceeds to Habitat for Humanity, and Globe adding an additional P 200 for every Globe Platinum subscriber who joins the run, and Globe-Ayala Land Run for Home 2010 is now this year’s top human race.

The Globe-Ayala Land Message:

Globe Chief Marketing Officer Menchi Orlina explains, “Globe-Ayala Land Run for Home 2010 is all about bringing people together to share that sense of achievement and the enjoyment of doing something they love, and then using that collective passion to make a difference in the lives of others.  With the support of our Ayala family and the goodwill of our subscribers, we can do great things. Now, being Globe-connected is more than just being able to call, text and surf affordably and conveniently; it also means celebrating the bonds that keep us together, and using our shared strength to be a force for positive change.”

The Basic Race Details:

Registration for Globe-Ayala Land Run for Home 2010 opens on February 14 and continues till March 5 at participating Globe Stores; runners can also register online at globe.com.ph/run.

How to join the run

• You can register online. Click here
• Or visit participating Globe stores
• Trinoma Mall
• Greenhills Hub
• Glorietta 3
• SM Megamall Cyberzone
• Alabang Town Center
• SM Mall of Asia
• Market! Market!
• After March 5,  registration will only be available at these Globe stores:
  • Trinoma Mall
  • Glorietta 3
• You can also join by doing any of these things from February 14 to March 5:
  • Buy a new Globe Tattoo Broadband stick for just P 895 at a Globe store. Once you’ve got the stick, visit a participating Globe store and present your Official Receipt; you’ll get your race kit for free!
  • Register to Globe Duo for one month: It’s just P 399 if you’re a postpaid Globe user, and only P 450 if you’re on prepaid or Globe Tattoo. Once you’ve registered, just present the text message you received from Globe Duo, confirming you’re all signed up. You’ll get 50% off your race kit!
  • Just pay P 550 to join the 3k and 5k,  or P 700 for the 10k, 15k and 21k.
  • Bring your friends and run as a group!
    • If you all want to run in the 3k or 5k:

For a group of 5, it’s just P 2,200; you get 5 race kits.

For a group of 7, it’s just P 2,750; you get 7 race kits.

For a group of 10, it’s just P 3,850; you get 10 race kits

• If you all want to run in the 10k, 15k or 21k:

For a group of 5, it’s just P 2,800; you get r race kits.

For a group of 7, it’s just P 3,500; you get 7 race kits.

For a group of 10, it’s just P 4,900; you get 10 race kits.

So time to gear-up with your family and friends! Your last day to register (March 5, Friday).

Done signing up?  Sign up here or run to your nearest registration centers listed above.  HURRY NOW!!!

Unilab Run for Wellness Launch and Run Clinic

Whatever our reason is for running, be it for weight-loss, supplementary cross-training, continuing thirst  for that runner’s high, great camaraderie among running friends, or maybe just plain joining the band-wagon, one thing is pretty sure —  running, if done with some regularity, will lead to wellness.

We have reaped the benefits of running that is  why i am passionately endorsing this activity to friends and anyone who cares to listen.  We continue to encourage our kids, too, and have stored fun memories of our family runs.  I am just glad that with the recent running boom, more and more companies are taking notice and have started to support the sport incorporating it in their wellness campaigns.

Last Saturday, Unilab invited not just runner-bloggers but lifestyle and food bloggers as well at the Cafe Juanita at the Fort to launch the Unilab’s Run-For-Wellness  on March 7, 2010.  Unilab is teaming-up with Finishline to give us a good opportunity to get everyone to take up the sport towards a life of wellness.  Coach Rio of Finishline and Alex of Unilab were on hand to talk about the up-coming event.

First time runners, newbies and veteran runners are enjoined to participate in the runs different events — 500 meter kids dash, 3k, 5k, 10k and 21k.  The event has something new to offer, too.  There will be a Wellness Village where runners can go to age-specific tents after their run and get special wellness expert advise.  Here’s free consultation

So bring the whole family and join the fun!!! Sign up now.

Runners and their families can register online at www.unilabwellnessevents.com.ph or through in-store registration at Runnr store at Bonifacio High Street, New Balance branches at Shangri-La and Glorietta, Planetsports outlets in Trinoma, Alabang Town Center, and Rockwell from Jan 30 to Feb. 21. From Feb. 22 to 28, registration is only at Planetsports Trinoma and Runnr store at Bonifacio High Street,Taguig.

Registered participants can get 20% off on New Balance items. Top finishers can win cash prizes, Unilab gift packs, and New Balance gift certificates worth P5,000. Finishers in the 21 km category will receive a finisher’s medal. The first1,000 finishers in the 21K can also bring home a finisher’s shirt.

THE LAUNCH…

Alex of Unilab shares his initiation into running and Unilab's wellness campaign

Coach Rio takes centerstage as he explains the race details

Bobby(Cruise Control), Jay(Prometheus Cometh), Que (Takbo.ph) and me

the solemates with Coach Rio & Jay and a mix of other food and lifestyle bloggers

UNILAB RUN CLINIC:

In line with the race, Unilab and Finishline is running a 10-session run clinic at the Ultra Oval, Pasig, every tuesdays and thursdays which started Feb 9.

I have joined 2 sessions and really enjoying it.  Coaches Allan, John and Joar leads the clinic making sure we are having fun learning the drills.  I tell you it is fun!  A little hard at first but a whole lot of fun especially when you’re doing it with friends.   Got to bring along 3 of my officemates and we’re all having a blast! The balancing drills especially got us laughing at ourselves.  HAHAHA (I was having such a good time I didn’t want to lose time getting my camera phone to take pictures.  Maybe next time. 😉 )

Thanks to run clinics like this which educates and equips us to run injury-free and beautifully! It’s FREE! What more can we ask for?

Thanks Unilab! Thanks to all the Coaches!

For those interested, it’s not too late to join.  The run clinic will run until March 4 (Tuesday and Thursdays only), 6-8pm.

Have a blast with us at the oval!  🙂

The Amazing Kidney Race

The Philippine Society of Nephrology (kidney doctors) presents ” The Amazing Kidney Race” on March 7 in UP Diliman.

The Amazing Kidney Race will have four event categories. There is the 15K relay race limited only to 50 teams. Each team shall be composed of 5 members who will correspondingly complete the 1k-2k-3k-4k-5k race distances to complete a total of 15 kilometers. Adding twist to this race category are the baton passing and challenges that must be met by the relay runners in the handover zones to complete transition.
Then there is the heart-warming 2.2K Parent-Child Tandem Run especially allocated for Mom/Dad-Child team-ups. During the race, participants and spectators will get a touching sight of a parent egging on and encouraging her/his child who is determined to give his/her all.
There is also the 5K UP FLCD Circle Challenge, a banner event of event-partner UP FLCD Circle, particularly catered to beginner runners or veteran racers who have the need for speed.
And finally there is the centerpiece event, the 15K Eliminator Pursuit, where race participants will get an adrenalin rush as they negotiate UP Diliman campus’ best kept running course secret – the Heartbreak Route. 15K racers will get to know first-hand why it is called as such. And as if the route is still not inviting, all participants who meet the 45-minute half-way mark or 1h45m finish point cut-off times will receive a Finisher’s medal.

Both 15K and 5K solo race events will have MD and Open categories and subsequent male and female divisions. Top three individual and group finishers in all events and categories will be awarded with medals and certificates of achievement.The Amazing Kidney Race” is presented with the support of Activelink, in cooperation with event partners RunRadio @ NU107 FM, RunnerSpeak @ QTV11, Second Wind Running Store, ROX, and media partner, thebullrunner.com.  Proceeds of the race reg fee will be used for the operation of underprivileged kidney patients.

How sweet it is! – Condura, My 2nd Full Marathon

Just like what I said in my previous post, Condura run 2010 will be special for me and the pink sole. First, it will be our anniversary run,  her 1st and my 2nd year anniversary. Second, it will be our first race for the year and it will be the pink sole’s 2nd 21k run, my 2nd full marathon after our first try for the same distance events last December at the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon.

After having a not so satisfying experience with my first full, i am hoping that maybe this time i will be able to redeem myself and answer my millon dollar question, can i run a full marathon one more time without cramping? That question was answered yesterday after i crossed the finish line.

My goal for this race was the same i had in Singapore — finish within my target time of 4:30-4:40 and accomplish this without any injury or another episode of cramps.

We arrived early and had enough time to stretch and clear my bladder. I told Mariel that it might be a hot day since there wasn’t any cold breeze that morning.  I went to the starting line and saw good friend Annie who always times her vacation to join a big race here.  Saw many familiar faces — Kim, Jonel, Randy, Charlie,  Mikey, Raymund, Dindo who will also be doing his 2nd full  and  Bro J who will be doing his first.

It was a big crowd for a 42k.  Around 700 registered runners were in the corral, proof of the sport’s increasing popularity. I psyched myself to go slow, start conservatively and remember everything I planned to do including what i should do if there is any sign of muscle cramps. For the first few kilometers, I let my natural stride and pace carry me through and intentionally didn’t look at my Garmin to check my pace.  I just tried to feel my body take me through an easy, comfortable pace.  Saw a lot of running friends who went ahead of me.   After crossing the 10k mark, i took a peek at my time which is 1:02:42. Ooops! I was way too fast from my target time so,  I slowed down.

Before turning left to Estacion street, caught up with friend, Philip, a seasoned triathlete who’s doing his first full. As we went up the skyway toll gate, he went ahead while I continued to  maintain my running pace. At 20k, time logged-in at 2:06:45 was again too fast from my target time.  Ooops. ooops!.  I was feeling good and continued my pace. I needed to make sure I have  reserved energy before reaching the condura hill.  Slowly but surely conquered the hill. A few minutes after, l felt a little tightness in my inner thigh.  Suddenly, my Singapore experience flashed-back.  I had to slow down and changed my strides from time to time to make my other muscles work and let the others rest.  After a few kilometers, the pain went away.  After crossing all 30k and all under my target time, I was already thinking that I might be able to hit my target if I will have that reserve energy.  The cheering and bananas being distributed at the Takbo.ph and Reinier Pacific volunteer Aid Station really provided  relief. Thank you,  guys!.

I was very tired already and it seems Buendia avenue was way too long that day. Vener (Run Unlimited) caught up with me and gave me some encouraging words just the way he also did during our  long runs at UP and BDM.  He told me to  give more effort in the last few kilometers. We are getting nearer and nearer.  After a few more minutes, saw the 40k mark which gave me a big boost knowing that its just 2k to go. I went to speed up little by little looking for the last two turns. And there it was, such a glorious sight the finish line was!  Yes, i did it!!!

How sweet it is conquering my 2nd full without cramping, hitting below 5hours target time. I remember telling Vener few weeks before the race, I will be happy even with a 4:44:44 time. But this one is much better, 4:34:44 ( My garmin time).

Not only is it  sweet, it surely is  one of the best races around.  Looking forward to celebrating our next running anniversary at next year’s condura.

Congrats again to Patrick and Ton   Concepcion!!!  Thanks for a great race!

Nearing the Finish line

with Coach Rio

With Mariel and Annie

Thanks for the push Vener

Exchanging stories with Annie, Vince and Jay

Jun and I agreed we will have no stressful activities day before what is a very important race for us — our anniversary race.  That we tried to do.  After waking up very early still (my body clock won’t let me over-sleep), and a good breakfast with the family, i surprisingly dozed-off.  My body probably caught on the the planned slow day and decided to  give way to much-needed rest.  I woke up in time for lunch?!?  That was a sweet dreamless sleep.  So on to the table again  for lunch with the whole family where conversation revolved around our schedule for the afternoon.  That would be a quick trip to the supermarket with my 2 younger kids and back to the house for a DVD marathon — our idea of a relaxing time with the family.

I was so relaxed I got momentarily worried about not being nervous about our Big race.  I shook all cares and just totally relaxed with the family.  So relaxed, I munched on our fave Soft Batch chocolate chip cookies again and asked for a glass of Coke Zero which was immediately shifted to a bottle of Gatorade when Jun heard me.  Hahaha  the kids and I had a good laugh!

On race day, we were characteristically early at the race site.  While Jun was stretching and preparing his gear, I sat in the front seat yawning away.  Oh my, I was really still so very sleepy having only had 3 hours sleep.  I guess my long after-breakfast sleep Saturday wrecked havoc on my body clock this time.  Good thing I was still able to get up very early and didn’t stress the blue sole. 😉

My first anniversary  race turned out to be pleasant one for me.  I accidentally got myself a running buddy in the person of good friend, Melody (also Jun’s BelieveStrong teammate) who was reluctantly running her first 21k having been shut out from the 10k event.  Flying in straight from Vancouver, she didn’t plan much less train for a 21k.  Anyway, we ran together, pacing each other through long CR breaks (mine actually), water breaks and skyway picture-taking breaks.  It made my run more fun. Thanks Melody!

Melody at the Skyway

With Tiffin

got caught fixing my hydration belt which was forever turning

The race proper was handled very well  in my opinion.  I enjoyed it a lot except during the first  Buendia flyover run early morning when it was still very, very dark.  Furthermore, the headlights of on-coming vehicles at the other lane was blinding us.  Not comfortable with night-time runs, I kinda worried I might lose my footing over uneven roads.  None of that happened though and we were able to traverse the flyover unscathed.

Going down Buendia Ave., the portalets beckoned.  Good thing Melody was up for a breather and patiently waited for me.  I pity those who lined-up after me.  I kinda took a long time in there.  After that I felt better and enjoyed the run even more especially my first skyway run.  I was running the skyway while the sunlight was slowly inching its way out of the horizon. The sun cooperated and didn’t rear it’s hot head all the way out such that the runners were treated to a comfortable almost sunless skyway run most of the way.  Great day for a skyway run!  It was fun seeing friends Tiffin and Jonel on the skyway!

Exiting the skyway, i felt Melody breathing heavily and told her to just slow down.  I was still pacing her. Going down the skyway, I checked out the time and thought I won’t be able to slash time-off my Singapore time.  At about the same time,  Melody wanted to take a breather and really go slow and told to me to go on ahead.

The rest of the Buendia run was uneventful.  I was still having fun with just a slight heaviness at the back of my thighs.   Trouble awaits though at the Buendia flyover … I felt my legs getting numb and felt my knees turning liquid.  Is this the dreaded cramps? I tried to remain calm and scanned my options … walk?  tried a few steps while hydrating with gatorade and decided against it as walking seemed to aggravate the situation.  I ran on again albeit with slow, small steps and started praying that the Lord pull me through this.  I was already at the last 2 kilometers of the race.  I can’t stop now!  I found some singing space and connected with the Source of all strength.

All that I am, all that I have

I lay them down before you, oh Lord.

All my regrets and all my acclaim

The joy and the PAIN, I’m making them Yours.

Lord, I offer my life to you everything I’ve been through

Use it for your glory

Lord, I offer my days to you lifting my praise to you

As a living sacrifice

Lord I offer you my life.

What a joy to have a living God who hears us and answers our pleas for help. Going down the flyover and towards the last kilometer, I felt well.  My legs gained strength and my spirits soared.  I gained speed, reached out to well-meaning cheerers along the way for mid-fives and sprinted towards the finish.  What a race and what a testament of God’s goodness!

What a great anniversary run …  from a 5k last year to my 2nd 21k in this year’s Condura Race.  Not bad, not bad at all. 🙂

Best of all, I’m very happy Jun had a very  good run.  All the preparation paid-off at last!

With God, all things are possible.  Thank you, Lord!

Running and loving it! 🙂

Melody, me, Jun, Tiffin, Marc and Vince

With Raymund, Jun and Patrick after the race

Leo Valdez and Me. Ya think I can pass-off as Kim? 😉

The Solemates -- Happy Running Anniversary to us!!!

TIMEXTRAORDINAIRE

As Jun and I were driving home from last Sunday’s run, we were sharing our thoughts about the race and readily agreed that it was really great!  We couldn’t find fault with anything.  We are not into fault-finding during races as we want to just enjoy every race and focus on their good points.  This time though we did try to find fault and didn’t find any.  Very extra-ordinary!

Because we know that coming up with an event like this requires a good partnership between the sponsor and the organizer, we thank both Timex and Finish Line  for a superbly-planned and implemented race event that resulted to a great running experience.

Now for our race account …

Pre-race:

For the first time since I started running, I woke up ahead of  Jun and even before the alarm clock  hit 2:45am.   I tapped him  lightly on the arm to make sure he’s awake and then bounced off the bed.  There was something (or was it someone? Oh Papa P!)  in this race that made me excited.  I probably had a premonition of a great event I didn’t want to ruin it by being late.  haha

At exactly 3:55am, we were in BHS starting our pre-race run.  There were not many people and cars yet but the starting line was already busy, bright and alive.  I was supposed to do a 15k and Jun a 32k.  Being registered only for 10k, I needed to do an extra 5.  Jun doing the 21k event would have to slice his extra 11k before and after the race. So, we did.

Jun and I ran together until I dropped off after finishing my 5k.  I would have wanted to continue and add more mileage as I had a good 30 minutes more before my event but I feared the long lines at the restroom and decided to allot the extra time for it.  It was a good decision after all as I was able to do my thing and felt completely ready for my race.  With the extra time on my hands, I was able to pray with Piolo and the rest of the runners and snap some pre-race pictures.

My view from across the street as Piolo was about to lead the runners in prayer with Coach Rio beside him

The race went great.  I used my hydration belt for the first time as I didn’t want to line up for water and found out I could have foregone use of it.  There was more than enough water for all the runners and the tables set were long enough to avoid any lines.  This, together with the hassle-free same-day claiming of the race pack  were really the biggest and most welcome improvement for me.  The rest like the David Salon rah rah girls, free towels for 21k finishers, free massage booth, loot bags, etc.  are nice-to-haves but definitely did make this race more special than the rest.

After the 21k runners left, I went in the corral and joined all the runners in the stretching exercises.  After the video presentation of the race route (a new techie addition), the race started and off went the 10k runners.  Jun warned me during our pre-race run to make sure I take it easy as I might immediately speed up having been warmed up from my early pre-race 5k.  So i was a little surprised  that my legs felt stiff and I felt in no way warmed-up as I started running my 10k.  I suppose the 30-minute break wiped-out the advantage from the warm-up. After km1, my legs felt better and ready to go and I sped up only to be slowed down by the flyover incline.  (I really need to get  those incline trainings started!)  I guess I was concentrating hard negotiating the incline that I failed to see Jun as we passed each on his way back (he said he saw me looking straight out).  The downhill run, my favorite, was usually an all-out affair for me.  This time though, I decided to take it easy all the way down careful not to cause any pain or any injury.  Off the flyover,  I saw friends Tiffin who cheered me on (thanks Tiff!) then Miguel who’s running his 1st half (congrats Migs!).  I was feeling good all the way that I decided to forgo my planned gel intake after km7 or anywhere before tackling the flyover again.  I didn’t think much about my time.  I just listened to my body more and tried to maintain the pace most comfortable for me that would take me on a longer run.

I was feeling good till the end.   Big thanks to Kaye for the very enthusiastic cheer at the finish line!  No PR this time (1.10.42) but it felt good having finished a total of 15k mileage set for the day.  Gotta nail that 18k this week or I’d be in trouble in December…

Marga, Mari, Kaye, Vima & Art, Tanya's friend, Tanya, me & Christy

Special thanks to Vima and Photovendo  for the pics!

I was looking forward to this race not because it was one of those the most  anticipated races but rather it was scheduled at the same time i was supposed to do my longest run (32k) to get ready for my first full.  So i asked Mariel if we can wake up earlier than usual, start early and run early. My plan was to do 5k or more prior to the 21k race and do the remaining after the race. Mariel agreed with me and we started our day excited and ready for a long run day. She joined the first 5 k and i continued until the final call for 21k runners. Im glad i did 7.5K before the race. As we took off i reminded myself to just maintain my planned pace for each part of the race. I kept in mind that i still need to do 24.5k and just take it easy since it is a long run day and not a race for me. After crossing the finish line, i just sipped some water, exchanged pleasantries with Jay (Prometheus Cometh) and went off straight out and continued my run to complete my 32k. woohooo!

I feel good i completed my longest run. Tired, a little sore but very happy. 🙂

Now, this race seemed more like an international race, don’t you think? 🙂

Kenny Run 09 Report and Results

For this race, race day meant not only race proper but 2 separate pre-race runs for both Mariel and I.

PRE-RACE MORNING RUN

I was scheduled for a long run that day and the plan was to meet up with Jaymie and Miguel to run atleast 15k (in knee-friendly asphalt roads )since we will be running only 5k at the race.  Mariel, who promised our daughter that she’ll take her to practice that morning opted not to join us to fulfill her commitment and planned instead to run in the cemented roads of our village.

Rains (or was it just a threat of rain and the stronger pull of the bed? hehe) prevented Jaymie and Miguel from meeting up for our scheduled run.  Already geared up, I decided to join Mariel instead on her planned short run.  On cemented roads, I’m willing to risk a 5k.  It was short and very laid back.

Hah! Of course, his laid back run isn’t laid back for me at all!  I ran at a faster rate than usual.  I’m not complaining though.  It was a good 5k run for me, one that I felt pushed me a little more.  Every now and then Jun would be asking if I was okay and  surprisingly, I was.  Though breathing a little heavier,  I felt I could take it and was happy about managing a faster pace.

After our morning run, time for some mommy duties. After that, I managed to take a sweet, restful nap waking up upon Jun’s arrival from picking up Sofia  from practice.  Now, it was time for his nap.

I wasn’t as successful as Mariel taking a nap.  I went to bed but couldn’t quite  get a restful sleep. Anyway, soon after, it was time to pick up Bea this time from practice and reminded Mariel to be ready for our pre-race run with Jaymie and Miguel at the BHS (take 2).

This time the planned run materialized.  We met up with the Pizarro’s at around 6:30pm at Runnr.  Finding long lines to the restroom we decided to start running and headed towards McDonald’s for that much-needed restroom break for the girls.  Aljo joined us until McDonald’s and decided to head back after.  We then continued our run and headed towards the outer streets of Fort Boni passing through the condiminium area, back of S&R, towards Serendra and back to BHS completing one loop of 5k.  Mariel dropped out at 5k and Miguel at probably around 8k.  Jaymie and I continued on and completed the 2nd loop to finish a 10k run.

It was another enjoyable 5k run for me.  With Jun setting the pace, it couldn’t be too easy for me.   It was an easy pace for him and our running buddies but definitely a faster than normal rate for me again.  Whew, the perils of running with bulls and itchy blue soles! hahaha  No, don’t get me wrong.  I ‘m not complaining.  Tired but really enjoyed every minute of it.  It’s always great running with friends! 🙂

After a change of running clothes, met up with my sister Jen and couple friends and first-time 5k runners Popoy and Cielo at Runnr as we waited for Jun to finish his run.  The chatter was fun and upbeat centering on the couples’ attempt at pre-Kenny race training, weight-loss, gears and future races.  We met up with the Pizarro’s again and proceeded to the iamninoy booth where I finally met couple Jamike &  Mayi whom I only get to communicate with online.  Also met Rapa Lopa and wife Didi.  It was a pleasure meeting you all.

We drank in the sites and sounds of the race here.  The atmosphere was truly festive and fun.  As we watched the 10k race start, we awaited with much excitement for our first-time race participant friends the call for the 5k runners. When it came,  we positioned ourselves almost at the end of the pack as we squeezed ourselves in the corral.  The runners were in high spirits and we joined the howls of the runners psyching up for the race.  The air was charged!  It felt like everybody was having fun! We certainly were!

RACE PROPER

As soon as the starting gun fired, the continuous beeps coming from the timing chips were heard and we slowly inched our way to the starting line passing the metal platform that would record our official race start.  Jun initially ran easy which allowed me to keep pace.   The road was packed with runners and it took effort getting ahead of the runners/walkers.  He motioned for me to run behind him as  we criss-crossed our way ahead.   I was able to keep up until the turn-around loop but as soon as we passed the half-way turn going towards the incline,  he asked me one last time if I was okay and as soon as I gave him an affirmative answer, he motioned he will go ahead and he was off.  That was the last I saw of him during the race.  I knew he would not be able to hold back for long.  haha  The itchy blue sole was at it again and on his heels was a seemingly mad bull.  hahaha  Wait, where was Miguel?  Guess what?  He actually finished ahead running on race mode all the way! I guess he was a madder bull that night.  Way to go Miguel!   hahaha

Jun was at the finish line waiting for me and we went to get our freebies and certificates together.

This is one race that erased my fears and  exceeded my expectations.  While I was apprehensive about running in the dark, the entire route turned out to be well-lighted during the race (atleast by the headlights of cars held up by the race traffic). While I knew this would be a really fun race, it turned out to be much more fun than I thought it would be. While I expected to run slow and even walk, I was able to run faster and hit a PR thanks to Jun who served as my pace-setter for the first half.

Finished at a PR time of 35.3.  Considering the hilly route and of course factoring in the darkness,  this was really unexpected. Previous PR for a 5k at 36.4  set at a flat route and morning run at Condura. WOOHOO!

This day was totally fun.  Thoroughly  enjoyed my 5k easy run with Jun that morning within the village and the  pre-race run around Fort Bonifacio with Jun, Jaymie & Miguel.  The 5k race completed a 15k mileage for me for the day.  Happiness!!! 🙂

POST RACE

After getting our fill of powerade and getting our bag of freebies, we converged again at the iamninoy booth for a lot of chats and a few photo-ops as we waited for my sister and our friends to finish and get their freebies.  The lines were long by the time they finished so there were a lot of opportunity to chat and just people watch.

OUR STATS:

The results of the race was just as fun to see …

Highlights:

Jun :

–  passed 359 runners and 0 passed hi.  Cool!

– finished 14th place in division

Mariel:

– finished upper 12% in gender category(middle packer at the globe 10k)

– finished 16th place in division

– PR finish at 35:3 (net).  Cool, too!

Our RunPix stats …

and our running pics (thanks photovendo).  I have not been fortunate enough to have good shots though 😦 Well, better ones next time, i hope …

As for the usual after race meal?  NADA!  It was full house at Pancake House  and after waiting and chatting awhile decided that we’re not hungry anyway.  We comforted ourselves with the fact that we did not put the day’s work-out to naught.  We just chatted some more and tried to plot out our next races with our new running recruits.  Before calling it a night, we remembered our standard photo-ops. Perfect!

with only sis, jen, on her 2nd 5k race now. Woohoo!

Jun and I with good friends, Popoy & Cielo, our new running recruits

Jen, Cielo and me

I’m so happy when friends start getting excited about the sport Jun and I  so passionately love.  We just truly love encouraging our friends to take up running.  I even find myself talking about running almost everywhere I go — at work, the parlor,  gym, spa and even at the derma while undergoing cautery session.  The joys of running just pleasantly fills my thoughts.  😉  I remembered the time when I noticed Jun talking about running all the time and managed to squeeze in the topic almost everytime.  Hah, now i find myself doing the same!  The running fever is really contagious! I hope more of our friends get it. 😉

Great friends, great chat, great race.  What more can we ask for?  Probably a great meal at KR? (We would have opted for the KR meal if my pretty sister could just find her and our friends meal stubs)  😉

Fabulous time anyway… with or without a meal! 🙂

Just had to include this even if it's blurred. Won't be complete without the usual Sole Mates pic! 😉

Globe Run for Home Race Report

Much has been said, much has been written.  Some good, some bad.  One thing though we can’t deny is this run raised about a million pesos that would help give 100 families their own homes and all of us who ran and raised awareness on this cause were all part of this worthy endeavor.  For that alone, we’re happy.

I don’t usually do a lot of activities a day before race day so that I’ll have a lot  of reserved energy.  I only had one schedule to attend to Saturday afternoon and that’s it. But coming from a heavy migraine attack Friday midnight till Saturday afternoon was just energy busting.  It was good i was still able to go to my commitment that afternoon even with a slight headache. I  guess i lost a lot of those energy reserved for the race.

Sunday and race day,  I was up early feeling a little feverish.  I just went on  my usual ritual during race day thinking it will go away with a good shower.  Didn’t bother to tell Mariel anymore.  She might insist I stay home instead and proceed to the race herself.  Well, I didn’t want that to happen.  Not going while she will?  No way!!!  It will make me more sick!!!   hahaha

The little feverish feeling was gone a couple of minutes after we arrived at the BHS parking lot.  I guess the runner’s high kicks in once you see the race site and all the  runners around you.. Met up with Annie, Jaymie, Miguel, Jen, Vince and Anne delRos.  Jen( Mariel’s sis) and Anne will do their first 5krace, Mariel and Miguel will do 10k while Vince delRos,  Jaymie, Annie (fresh from Singapore) and myself are running 21K.  Jaymie and I have set our minds not to push too much since we just came from an injury and had just started training again. Our plan is to do 6:30 pace. Annie was excited to race again missing the Manila races and was again itchy to hit the road.  As usual, off she went ahead as soon the gun start sounded.  The weather was nice, a perfect race weather.

Our fist 5K was a little fast compared to our plan of maintaining an easy pace.  Jaymie’s garmin bugged down on her a few minutes after we started so i was set to be as the pace setter again just like our pre-injury days last year when we where training for the New Balance and Singapore races.

This bullrunner really has  horns and wanted to swag runners in front of us at the early stages. Kept reminding her to take it easy and tuck in her horns first as we were already way off our planned pace. The next 5k was almost the same. We see fellow runners already returning from the Ayala U-turn saying hi to us, I meant, not me but to the bullrunner.  hehe  It wasn’t only Jaymie who wanted to swag but my sole is itching to increase pace however we both had to take it easy.   Running along Ayala Avenue, Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue was another different experience.  The only times you could probably see people on these roads instead of cars were if there were rallies or demonstrations.  Looking at the sea of runners along these major roads of the central business district is just awesome.  For a couple of hours, runners rule Ayala!

On our way back along Buendia, the road became busy as we shared the road with the 10k runners.  I saw Miguel then later Mariel.  By the time we hit the Kalayaan flyover,  I was feeling tired.  It might be the effect of the draining migraine attack and slight fever that early morning.  By the time we reached 5th Avenue, I felt so exhausted.  Jaymie asked,  “you ok?”  Told her I’m already tired.  She said ” Go Jun, think of it as just one of those morning sickness”… Kainis!!!

As we hit the last 2 km, i felt the second wind pushing and giving me the boost to increase my pace a little more until we reached the finish line. Garmin time at 2.09.  It was a tiring race but it was a good one. Nice weather, nice route, nice people around, but most of all, nice way to help build a home. Well, that can be considered a great day to run.

Day before race was light and easy.  Planned it that way so as to make up for the hectic and stress-laden week at work.  It has been this way for 2 weeks now actually ever since I went back to work after my 2-week bout with Dengue.  I just had a lot to catch-up on.  This has kept me from returning to a regular running schedule.  I joined the Nike Clinic last Tuesday, ran a mere 5K and that was it for me for the week.  No runs whatsoever until race day. Anyways,  the kids and I enjoyed a full day together that Saturday doing a different kind of marathon.  Our family favorite on Saturday afternoons — DVD marathon!

Started off race day with the same routine only this time, I had to make sure my sister, Jen, who’s running her first 5K, is also now awake.  Called her up to make sure. No problem there, she was.  I was kinda afraid she might back out the last minute as she was praying for rains so the race will not push through.  Hah, informed her races push through rain or shine or there’d be a lot disgruntled runners!  hahaha

We met up with old-time (as in we were still singles), good friends Vince and Anne as well in the parking lot.  When the 21k runners Vince, Jun, Jaymie and Annie left,  us, 3 girls, Jen, Anne and myself stayed on at the parking lot while Miguel ran a couple of rounds.  We then tried to do stretching exercises transitioning to Jane Fonda work-outs courtesy of Anne.  hahaha  Good thing Miguel left earlier or we might have embarrassed him to death!  he he he  Boy, but we sure had fun!:)

We saw the 21k runners off and stayed on at the sidelines chatting away waiting for our races to start.  I then left the two to join the stretching exercises in the 10k corral.

I really did not set high expectations for myself for this race.  I was just so happy I can run this one as I wasn’t even sure I could when I registered.   I secretly hoped though I could atleast be at par with my current PR of 1.09.42 or atleast not too far below.

5k/10K

Running the first few kilometers, I felt unusually tired. I have not even reached the flyover yet and I could already feel my heart beating fast.  Boy, this will be a hard climb, I thought.  I found some energy though and felt better as I hydrated at the flyover water station.  I was just a little disappointed that there wasn’t any energy drink available. (Yup Hon, I think it’s time to get me a hydration belt.  Donning that contraption while running is getting to be more attractive to me than lining up at the water stations.)  Going down of course is a favorite as I let gravity pull me into a faster run.  Whoa!  That released a new-found energy.  Passing runners on the way down released a new high and I was able to increase my pace in Buendia. I saw Vince delRos, then Jun and Jaymie, already on their way back and again found some energy to speed up as I passed the turn-around point.

10k/10K

On the way back, I felt tired and didn’t relish the idea of sprinting at the intersection of Buendia-Makati Ave.  to make sure I don’t get stopped to make way for the honking vehicles.  I pushed and pushed and thankfully would experience spurts of energy as I tried hard to muster the strength to speed up on the flat roads and resist the strong temptation to walk the 2nd flyover climb.

I have not walked since my first race and I just thought, I’m not prepared to start now.  I can do this, I can do this.  I kept repeating to myself.  Mind over matter. Divine intervention needed here. Lord, help…

Then a breath of fresh air came in the person of Tiffin. ( You were heaven-sent, dearie! )  Her sunny greeting and our brief chat energized me.  Telling me Mark will take my pic further bouyed me up further (Di mahilig sa pictures noh? ;)).  Thanks Mark for waiting and taking my flyover pic!

Running on the Buendia-Kalayaan flyover.

It’s time for the downhill run again. Yipee!!!

Sprint to finish

Reaching the flat roads  I just tried to maintain a steady pace careful not to go too slow.  At the final bend, Coach John cheered me on. ” Go go go,  strong finish,  go!  That worked as I sprinted towards the finish line!  Yey, made it back!

My time?  Can’t say for sure as I forgot to look at the time and couldn’t rely on my stop watch reading as I forgot to set it as the race started and also forgot to hit the stop button at the finish line.  Okay, okay, okay, this is one memory plus moment.

I forgot to do a couple of things this time but one thing I didn’t forget to do was…  have a good time!!! 🙂

The race isn’t perfect and so are the organizers. Who is anyway?  I thought it was more than okay.  It was great!  Except for the glitch on the awarding of prizes (I really hope Globe makes the necessary adjustment), the flaws were minor and yes, in our opinion, forgivable.

I’m just happy to be running again!    We both are!  =)

A must do — post race photoops with good friends… (thanks to Jaymie & Miguel, Anne & Vince, Mark & Tiffin for some of the pics)

Jun, me, Annie, Jaymie & Miguel

with old friends Vince & Anne Del Rosario

happy reunion!

Jaymie and me wearing same unplanned outfit. "Great runners have like minds" 😉 (borrowed from TBR post on TNF Race)

5k first timers: my sistah, Jen and Anne, Congrats!!! Another matching outfits - Like minds, too, ey?

Jun with ULTRA classmates, Karen Davila & hubby DJ

Mark, Annie, Jun, Tiffin, me, Nicole, Jaymie & Miguel

Miss this sweet lady everyone calls Mommy Kim.

Meeting Nora felt like meeting an old friend. Run with you soon! 🙂

President & sole member of JunC's Fans Club, hehe......oh, & the honorary member! bwaahahaha

Cristy, Nora, Johnny, Jaymie, me, Annie, Miguel, Jay & Vener

… and of course breakfast  atlast at TGIF and a lot of laughs with couple friends Alpert & Annie and Miguel & Jaymie capped a beautiful race day .

Great day, indeed!!!  Run on friends!!!

and last but not the least ... our Sole Mates pic! 😉