CamSur Bum, Running

Caceres Runners Club's humble beginning

2011-10-11T09:59:00.029+08:00

Caceres Runners Club (CRC) traces its history back to the year 2010, when running events were scarce in most parts of the country. A group of regular joggers in Peñafrancia Basilica Minore compound in Balatas, Naga City formally formed the organization with Mr. Gener Mayores as the first President. Pioneering members of the organization include workmates, drinking buddies and former classmates who shared the same leisure activity.

Long before the birth of one of the earliest running clubs in the province, its founding members have been participating in the annual Milo Marathon and local runs in the province. In fact, some of them were able to experience the first running boom in the country in 1970s. Prior to the renaissance of local running in the third quarter of 2010, they would be seen as a group of pace buddies along the roads in uptown Naga during weekends or in the Basilica compound every morning.

Mr. Dennis Manaog (in navy blue shirt), the would-be Treasurer, at the first Dalagan Oragon. Mr. Jun Oba, the would-be Vice President, was the race organizer.

On March 7, 2010, the health buffs have started to join running events, albeit small, as a group. At Dalagan Oragon (3.7.10), one of the earliest locally-sponsored runs in the city, they participated. The group's next run was at I Run for Ina (5.1.10). Different groups have started forming their clubs like the Mother Seton Joggers which some members later joined CRC. Mr. Jun Ricario, Arlan Paynante and Alfred Labay with other Mother Seton Joggers at I Run for Ina.

As South Star Drug Run for Wellness (8.29.10), I Bike/Run/Walk for Ina (9.4.10) and Summit Camsur Marathon (9.26.10) were approaching, the organization decided to elect officers to plan the group's upcoming runs. On August 21, the organization which would be known as Caceres Runners Club, was founded.

Mother Seton Joggers at South Star Drug Run for Wellness and I Bike/Run/Walk for Ina.

At the inaugural Summit CamSur Marathon, majority of its members joined the 5K and 10K category while Mr. Emilio "Gab" Gavino and Mr. Noel Averilla, two of its more experienced members, completed their first full marathon. The group's debut as a running club, however, only happened on March 6, 2011 at the city government-sponsored 1st Naga City Run where Ms. Florence Florece won Second Place in the 10K women's category. Florece was a favorite in races and a perennial winner in her category until the club's star runner left for the States. On April 7, 2011, Caceres runners held the 6K Despidida Fun Run for BB Florece (4.7.11), a send-off run for the club member.

The club, also known as Team Caceres, has joined numerous runs for different causes and has traveled to different parts of the province (namely in Bombon, Buhi, Bula, Canaman, Cabusao and Gainza) to participate in town fiesta fun runs. Its members has also joined different national and international sports events such as the Unilab Run United series, Condura Skyway Marathon, Takbo RunFest, Mayon Trail Run (10.24.10), TNF 100 Thrill of the Trail CamSur (5.1.11), Cobra IronMan 70.3 CamSur, and recently the Summit CamSur Marathon 2011.

Caceres runners at various running events: 34th Milo Marathon, Run for the Wetlands, Run for Lake Buhi, Healthy Hearts Run, Symmetrics Run, Run for Naga River, Pilgrimage Run, Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness, TNF100 CamSur and CamSur Marathon 2011.

Since the formation of Caceres Runners Club, the small tribe of middle-aged and elderly men has remarkably grown. Today, the club has attracted over 30 members from different sectors and backgrounds including recreational runners from different companies and government agencies.

Hon. Eddie Felix S. Alteza, municipal councilor of Bombon town serves as the President with Mr. Jun Oba as the Vice President. Mrs. Eugene Florece (Secretary), Mr. Dennis Manaog (Treasurer) and Mr. Arnold Abiog (Public Information Officer) are the other officers of the club.

Road to CamSur Marathon 2011

2011-10-04T09:06:00.027+08:00

For almost three months, I had to recover from a toenail injury which I got from TNF 22K++ semi-trail run. My training for my first full marathon started on July 3 or thirteen weeks before the CamSur Marathon 2011.

From July 3 to September 18, I covered roughly 372.84KM. The 162.8KM or 43.7% of which were from twelve races I joined in. My training mileage was only 210.04KM

WEEK ONE: 16KM

I did 16K at South Star Drug Run for Wellness 2 (7.3.11). It was my "come back run" since the I Run for Ina 10K Run last May 7. I clocked at a time of 1:38:43 or 6:15mins/km covering the Plaza-Pacol-and-back route.

WEEK TWO: 28KM (2 runs)

My 1:01:27 or 6mins/km results at Dalagan para sa Karahayan (7.10.11) was two minutes shy of the record I set in 10K at Hyundai Run for a C au se. The route was tiring psychologically doing 2 loops around downtown Naga from Bicol Access Health Center in CBD2. The weather was fine. It rained before the gunstart and after the awarding ceremony.

At CamSur PNP-sponsored Run for Peace (7.16.11), I clocked at 1:41:56 or 5:45mins/km. The 18K run started at PNP Provincial HQ in Concepcion Grande to Del Rosario, Cararayan, Balatas, San Felipe, Peñafrancia, Concepcion Pequeña and back via Villa Grande Subdivision. See route map. Finishers were rewarded with a medal at the finish line. Most runners participated in shorter categories.

WEEK THREE: 15KM (1 run)

At Rinconada Eco-Uphill Run (7.17.11) in Bula CamSur, I did the 15K. It was not my first back-to-back run. (In October last year, we did the Daralagana n sa Bombon (~11K) and 34th Milo Marathon 10K.) My time here was 1:32:xx or 6mins/km. The race started a bit late but it was fun. We had boiled bananas, macaroni soup, sinuman, sweet potatoes at the finish line, and I got a shirt from one of the sponsors. Similar to the route the other day, we had to take a detour as we thought we were few kilometers away from the finish arc. With Mother Seton Joggers at the photo.

WEEK FOUR: 20KM (2 runs)

I did about 11K on Sunday. There was no other race for this week except for the for 3K run at Ignatiana Fun Run (7.29.11) in ADNU. There, I managed to set a PR at 0:15.xx or 5mins/km, and did an extra 6K easy run after the race.

WEEK FIVE: 28KM (2 runs)

I did 15K at 6:30mins/km on Sunday in preparation for the next run. At Pilgrimage Run (8.6.11) in Gainza, CamSur we joined the 15K which was actually shorter since I crossed the finish line at 1:18:xx. It could be 13KM. In the photo taken by Prez Ed are Jhun R. and sir Mhentz (left) of NSO Runners.

WEEK SIX: 24KM (3 runs)

At Run for Dan (8.7.11) held a day after the Gainza run (another back-to-back run), I was late for the gunstart but I was able to catch up. The route was 3.5KM from Plaza Quezon, Liboton, Peñafrancia Ave. and back.

On Tuesday, Mhentz and I did 10KM recon of the route of Canaman run. I recorded a PR for 10K at Canaman Historical Trail Challenge (8.13.11) in my turf. Based on my watch (I stopped the clock at KM10. Actual distance was over 400m.), I set a 0:58:58 or 5:45mins/km record. Out of more than thirty 10K runners, I finished 12th.

With Rumel (left) of SHARP Phils Runners with other running buddies at the benefit run for Dan and Canaman run.

WEEK SEVEN: 33.3KM (2 runs)

I covered 12KM from Canaman to Basilica and vice versa (6.5KM at ~7mins/km, 30 mins break, 5.5KM at ~7:30mins/km). It started at 6:30AM and arrived at 8:30AM.

At NSO Run for Quality Statistics (8.20.11), a 21.3K-run from Panganiban Ave. to Pacol and back, I secured the LAST finisher's medal. I finished 30th at 2:17:50 or 6:30mins/km, a personal record for 21K.

WEEK EIGHT: 44.8KM (4 runs)

My mileage for this week hit the 40KM mark. I started the week with a 4KM run (~6:30mins/km). On Thursday, after realizing that I only had exactly 1 month to train, I was able to make 19.3KM (9:45mins/km) even if it was raining. See route map.

I Run for Ina (8.27.11) was a 21.5K-run from Penafrancia Shrine to Pacol, the a loop in downtown Naga and back to the shrine. I recorded 2:22:00 here, or 6:30mins/km. I paced with sir Mhentz from start to ~KM15 at 6:30min/hr or slower, and increased my pace until the finish line. It was the first time I completed a half-marathon race without walking! Could not get enough, I did another 4KM from northbound terminal to home after the race. Yay! With NSO Runners and Sonny of Gym Runners of Olympia.

WEEK NINE: 48.1KM (2 runs)

On Monday, a national holiday, I was on the road for over 5 hours. As early as 4:15AM, I hit the road. From home to Avenue Square which is 4.2KM, I jogged at a pace of 11:15mins/km. I took 28 mins break and warmed up. From Avenue Square to Pacol, Cararayan and Basilica, Alfred and I covered 17.2KM at 8:30mins/km. I decided not to ride going home. From Basilica, I took Taculod road which is 5.7KM with at the speed of 10:15mins/km. Total distance covered: 27.1KM.

On Tuesday, Caceres Runners Club decided to do the revised Milo 21KM route. I did the Galloway technique here. My pace was 8:30mins/km including 15+/-mins break with the team. Since July 3, I had been using the New Balance shoes. For this run, I tried the Adidas which gave me an injury. Or was it because of my back-to-back run, I am not sure. Some of my teammates also suffered injuries from this long run.

WEEK TEN: 66.08KM (4 runs)

It was the the peak of my training but certainly not the toughest yet.

For the second time, I did not walk during the race. Before the gunstart of 21KM at 35th Milo Marathon (9.4.11), I was experiencing plantar fasciitis but the pain was gone around KM4. My game plan here was similar to what I did at I Run for Ina. My pace in the first half of the race was 7mins/km. Based from the official results at the Milo website, I crossed KM10.5 at 01:13:03. I increased my pace at the turning point but made sure I finish the race strong. And I did at 2:20:36 or 6:30mins/km.

With the Santoses at the finish line. Breakfast with Team Caceres at Jing's place.

Cross-training. On Tuesday, I tried swimming (300m) at Metro Naga Sport Complex. On Wednesday, I did 10KM at 8mins/km from home to Basilica via Matiway and 5 loops in Basilica. On Thursday, I was back in the pool (150m) and did 2KM in the oval.

On Saturday, I covered 33.08KM in 5 hours and 30 minutes with Alfred, Sonny, Mhentz and Riz at some points of the run. See route map.

I posted at Dailymile: "Easy run and speed work every other 30mins until KM14. [Carolina with Alfred] Uphill. Easy run and walk until KM18 then rest for 5mins. [GSP site - turn around] Downhill [with Sonny and Alfred]. Easy run and 2-min walk after every 20-15mins then 10mins rest at KM24.75. [Panicuason] Heat of the sun became punishing. [Carolina to Pacol] Washed arms and face at two water pumping stations. Started to feet [sic] the weight of the feet. [San Felipe] Easy run and 5-min walk after every 10-5mins with speed work until KM31.5. [Sonny's place] Then 5-min rest. Walking until KM33.08. [Felix's place]"

I got a new pair of shoes from Felix for my training and short distance runs. What a treat for doing such a very looong run.

WEEK ELEVEN: 41.9KM (4 runs)

Couldn't get enough of the long run we had the other day, together with Alfred, Sonny, Mhentz, Olsen, Riz and her officemates, we went to CamSur Watersports Complex from NSO Office.

I posted at Dailymile on 9.11.2011: "Adding more kilometers to our weekend mileage before tapering for the 2011 CamSur Marathon on the 25th. Approximately 4 hours including about 30 minutes rest and sight-seeing at CWC." I covered 21.24KM.

Tuesday was an easy run from home to Basilica, istambay for few minutes, went home via Taculod (jumped on cousin's motorcycle at KM10.)

On Wednesday, with Nong2 and Jec, we joined the UNILAB Healthcare on the Road Naga City Adventure Challenge (9.14.11). It was a 14.7K run/walk/ride (approxiamately 8KM was on foot).

On Thursday, Nong2 and I had a 13.9KM easy run from home to basilica via hi-way and Matiway, to Panganiban to Bagumbayan. It had been a long since I ran in the rain.

WEEK TWELVE: 22.42KM (1 run)

The day after Fluvial Procession, I had my last run before I took some rest for the BIG DAY. It was 3 hours and 30 minutes run at 09:21min/km pace. See route map.

I posted at Dailymile: "LSD. Started at 7:15 [waited for Nong2 who did not show up] from home to Magsaysay. Walked to Basilica, to Eternal Garden where I saw Jing. Returned to Basilica weaving through a sea of devotees. Continued running along Magsaysay until CWC. Tried the final KMs of CamSur Marathon route: Lago del Rey, CWC and Capitol Convention Center. A skeleton of the Start/Finish arch is up. Walked until I reached the national highway. Got sun burn."

I had flu and sore throat after this run. At CWC, I had ice cream on stick as a treat. At home in the afternoon, I bought my self a mug of sorbetes.

UNILAB Healthcare on the Road Naga City Adventure Challenge (9.14.11)

2011-10-01T16:50:00.016+08:00

Nong2, Jec and I composed TEAM BONGKARAS. The other team was TEAM LGU CANAMAN composed of my other mates.

We were missing some required gears until we left home.

Saw Mhentz and Ole along the highway while we were en route to Plaza Quezon.

Club buddies, a lot of familiar faces.

START. Totally clueless with the puzzle. Was thinking of a name of a place. Half of the teams were gone still we could not get it. Called the attention of TEAM LGU CANAMAN for some clue but our marshal was there observing. Hopeless and desperate to move on, I glimpsed at the teams crowded at the START/FINISH arch getting their next clue. What??? D.I.A.T.A.B.S.!!! Went to get our passport. There was no line. Suddenly the marshal told us to form a line. One team managed to get ahead of me.

CIVIC CENTER. From Plaza Quezon, we took Panganiban Ave. We should have turned left to Mayon Ave. Jec was driving. She took Isarog Ave! Thought it was okay. We took M. Castro, Mayon, Taal streets. TEAM CRC (Jhun, Jing, Nep) was already there. We caught up, neck-and-neck until one of the rubbers of the skates-thingy snapped. Changed the equipment. We lost the momentum.

CATHEDRAL. Unfamiliar with streets in Dayangdang, we thought of taking Magsaysay Ave. then Peñafrancia. Stupid. Laughs. We passed Dayangdang and Colgante. (I PRINTED THE STREET MAP OF NAGA. IT WAS IN OUR BACKPACK. WE FORGOT TO USE IT.) I was responsible of navigating the padyak. Caught up again with TEAM CRC again! Next task was picture puzzle of the procession. Done. We were just on their tail.

TABUCO BRIDGE. "Let's take Elias Angeles St. all the way to Tabuco bridge," I commanded. Damn, the traffic. Barlin St. then Gen. Luna St. was the best option. Going on top of the bridge, we knew the marker was not there. "Could be down below at the Danlugan." We were right. Haha. TEAM CRC was struggling. But since we were THE unlucky team, we had to wait. The task should be done one team at a time! (ALL Checkpoints, except this, could be done by at least 2 teams at a time) Here, teams had to shoot one bottled water in a "salbabida" and spell INA using our body. We cheered and helped the other team on the letter A so they could move on faster. Our, turn. Yay! Nong2 could not shoot the bottle after many tries. Spelt I. N. A. easily and went off.

BASILICA MINORE. The team captain (read: I) commanded, "Panganiban Ave., then Magsaysay!" As we approach Delfin Rosales Bridge, I regained my sanity. NO! Laughs. Yes, we took Blumentritt and Dayangdang instead. At Brentwood school we saw TEAM LGU CANAMAN. Knowing we had to return to Cathedral for the next Checkpoint, we left our padyak outside Basilica. There, we had to sell candles for P30. Suddenly, a "miracle" happened here. We were done in just few seconds. We were off for our next task.

PORTA MARIAE. Here, I started to get tired and exhausted. The challenge was though. A lot different from running. Taking Dayangdang Ave., I pedaled. It was so hard. A team was catching up. I tried to block the way. My teammate told me to let them pass through. We decided to leave out padyak before Colgante Bridge since we needed to go back to City Hall afterward. Caught up again with TEAM CRC. WE HAD SO MANY CHANCES OF BEATING THIS TEAM. Other teams were also there, meaning they have caught us up, too! TEAM CRC UNDERTAKER was just two stations away from finishing the race. The task was a history quiz: arranging events related to Peñafrancia. We switched two events, got penalized for the wrong answers. I almost lost our camera here. Haha.

CITY HALL. Mad dash back to our padyak in Dayangdang. Many teams have overtaken us. We didn't know the short cut. Followed TEAM CRC UNDERTAKER. We lost them. Kagawad Alteza's other teammate must have been a professional padyak driver! We thought. We took right to Dons St., right to Ilang-Ilang St. (must have taken left!), M. Castro St., Apo St. et cetera. We realized we were at the back of City Hall. We left our padyak near the water district office. Foot race to the City Hall. Teams must unlock the chains using FIVE number combination! (Based on TEAM CRC's time in their passport, they were successful here. THIS was their break!) Later, we have known that the correct combination was the TWO digit code 14. One and Four. TWO numbers. We never saw them again. The rest of us were unfortunate in THIS particular task. WE needed to wait for our time penalty to expire before we could proceed. This was TEAM CRC UNDERTAKER'S final task.

Colgante bridge, Barangay Dayangdang

AVENUE SQUARE. Took Magsaysay Ave. Parked outside Avenue Plaza. Mad dash to the back of the hotel. "You are the last team to arrive," I told my team. Task was to get the letters of the word PEÑAFRANCIA. NO hassle, except that I was struggling in getting on my feet after collecting the letters (pasted on 1-peso coins). Finally, last stop! Peñafrancia Shrine!

Magsaysay Bridge

PEÑAFRANCIA SHRINE. Quiz again. Seemed to easy. We checked the book cover of Barrameda's The Lady of Peñafrancia to consult how many stars are there in Ina's crown. Twelve. Who introduced Divino Rostro in the procession? This or that. Done. Missed two out of five. Jec was right about Divino Rostro question. I wrote C instead of B. for 2010, the year when Portae Mariae was completed. While waiting until our time penalty expires, I told Jec to chat (flirt) with our marshal. We know we have a lot of penalties (according to the marshall). He kept telling us not to leave our padyak for it is a violation. WTF. I explained (read: argued) that it was not a penalty. Realizing arguing with the MAN was not wise, I told her to a conversation with him, ask him where he is from et cetera, so he might reconsider our "penalties." AND IT WORKED. He opined, we were quick yet we lack knowledge of the right direction.

FINISH. Everyone was there. Last task was a quiz. Still, we did not get it perfect. Haha. "We are still waiting for the last 6 teams." The host announced while we were completing the last task. Done.

Our padyak's GPS results

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE PARTICIPANTS SPECIALLY TO THE WINNERS (Team CRC, CRC-Undertaker, LGU-Canaman all placed in the Top 10), TO THE MARSHALS, ORGANIZERS (Don Primero for the slots), UNILAB, AND MY TEAMMATES. Thanks TEAM LGU-CANAMAN for the treats!!!

15th Place out of 25 Teams

Upcoming: The SYMMETRIX Run (5.22.11)

2011-05-18T09:58:00.011+08:00

Sixty-Niners Fraternal Klan Inc. is sponsoring The SYMMETRIX Run, a 25km multi-pavement run (road, gravel and trail) from the town's proper to Mt. Asog's crater lip and back. This will happen on Sunday, May 22 in Buhi, CamSur. Registration fee is P500 inclusive of singlet, bib, energy drinks and finisher's medal.

PRIZES: 1ST PLACE- P6,000; 2ND PLACE-P4,000; 3RD PLACE-P2,500

There will be 6km fun run-walk. Registration fee is P250 inclusive singlet, bib, drinks, snacks and souvenir token.

REGISTRATION CENTERS
Buhi, CamSur:

SUREPLUS STORE in San Buena, Buhi, CamSur
LITSKIKAY STORE AND RESTAURANT in San Buena, Buhi, CamSur

Iriga City:

ABEN MARKETING in Hi-Way 1, San Miguel, Iriga City

Naga City:

TRI N' RUN MULTISPORTS HUB in 41B Mayon Ave., Naga City

Legazpi/Daraga Area:

DARAGA PAINT CENTER& GEN. MERCHANDISE in Baylon Bldg., Daraga, Albay (052) 483-3713 (Registration forms will be available here starting May 2, 2011)

FINISHER'S MEDAL and ROUTES

Photos: I Run for Ina

2011-05-15T16:32:00.009+08:00

Mona, wife of fellow runner Mario Bandin, has hundreds of great shots. Here are some.

I Run for Ina was held last Saturday, May 7. Starting point was Old Peñafrancia Shrine and finish line was in Basilica Minore in Balatas, Naga City.

Find yourselves in the two albums:
ALBUM 1
ALBUM 2

Photos: Binamban Fest Fun Run

2011-05-15T15:31:00.006+08:00

Participants in Binamban Fest Fun Run held on May 2, 2011 in Bombon, CamSur have uploaded their photos.

Check out the rest of the photos at Jing's album here.

Sir Mhentz who just ran 21~27K in TNF100 CamSur, did a 14K recovery run. See his shots here.

Ed, race organizer, has the awarding photos.

TNF100 CamSur (5.1.11)

2011-05-04T11:35:00.007+08:00

PRE-RACE. Couldn't sleep. Still wanted to watch Sports Unlimited. Decided to take sleep, about four hours.

Was up at 2. Had hot coffee, or was it oatmeal I forgot. Needed to be at Ato's before 4. Was so early. Jogged over 1km to the hi-way. Waited patiently for a ride to Naga. Texted Ato who thought the starting line was at CWC, and kept me waiting at least by half an hour. Saw a cab with some TNF100 participants, it even slowed down to pick me up. Past 4, saw Jun and buddy going already.

Arrived at CWC ready for the worst: DNS. But we were just on time. Met clubmates and other buddies. Photo ops.

Checked in, jumped on the army truck. Got transported to the camp. Sun was up, not a good sign. No enough time to warm up. Armies and trainees greeted us. Chopper was covering the start. Bang!

RACE. Annoying belt bag, exact shoe size, wind by chopper too low. Hard to run, jogged.

Very long gradually ascending road of earth, not the kind of "trail" I was expecting. Water station, Mt. Isarog finally. Reached A2, I supposed. Tsk tsk minus ~4km of "trail-forest run." Entered the forest, excitement.

Cool, moist, green, nature, quadriceps, arms, sweat, leaves, itchy. Wore armsleeves.

Relaxed, no competition, wanted to take my time. Some overtaking, familiar faces, never saw again. Smiles. Race on.

Trees with red and white route markers. Hand held Gatorade to the back of my shorts. Needed to use two hands. Narrow paths, some rocks. Bamboos, ropes. ~50 meters narrow canal, passage going up. Whew!

Marshals in the woods. Going down, crater? Sound of a waterfalls. Could be the highest point in the routemap. Ato overtook, bad. Nel taking photos and vid. Roadblock. Time to catch up. Guy ahead almost lost. Hey! look, routemarker. Went up, everyone followed.

Back on the road. Toes hurting. Banana. Paced with others. Hot. One by one, runners caught up. Reached A3.

Locals in upper Pili speak Rinconada? amazed. Carabaos, farmers, dogs, banana trees. Banana leaf, shield against the sun.

Familiar surroundings, back in Tinangis - A1. Marshals, armies, people again. The longest part.

Unending earth road, corn fields on the side. Thirsty soil, beating sun. Marshal-shooter. Ran. Walked. A townmate, walked, talked, few kilometers covered.

About ten runners overtook, still got energy to jog. Unending road. Watched them disappear.

Motorcycles, other vehicles. Annoying. Dusts.

A sari-sari store. No bottled water. Cold water in a plastic bag to cool myself. Avoided to get thighs, feet wet. Lessons.

Sensed of the hi-way. Got energy to run. Fair weather. Hi-way, finally. Probably running for just over 4 hours. Police traffic, for me? Looked around, no other runner there. About five vehicles stopped, ran with smiling face.

Energy drink needed. None. Found one at Capitol entrance. Two runners caught up momentarily, another approaching. Race on.

Jogged, walked, jogged, gulped, ran. Very hot pavement. One overtook, "4:36" now. Walked until Lago before the last turn going to the finish.

TNF100 CamSur is all set

2011-04-29T15:53:00.003+08:00

TNF100 CamSur starting line arc at CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC).

Photo by Joan

Fr. Amado Picardal, CSsR now in CamSur

2011-04-27T10:06:00.009+08:00

As of yesterday, Fr. Amado Picardal, CSsR has covered a distance of 983km. He is currently in a looong journey to Aparri, Cagayan which began on April 1, just after he celebrated the Mass for Life & Peace at 6 in the morning in his parish church in Davao.

In his itinerary, Fr. Picardal would travel from Libon, Albay to Naga City which is about 50km early this morning. Tomorrow until Friday, he will cover Naga City to Lupi, CamSur (43km) and Lupi to del Gallego, CamSur (46km).

Photo taken from his blog

The Filipino Redemptorist, Catholic Priest based in Mindanao is walking and running "to express support for the peace process between the Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front, and between the Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front;"

"To express opposition to the ongoing destruction of the environment caused by logging, mining and coal-fired power plants;"

"To denounce the continuing extra-judicial killings perpetrated by death squads in Davao and other cities in the Philippines;" and

"To express opposition to the Reproductive Health Bill (HB 4244)."

He was featured in TV Patrol Bicol yesterday.

Read about his journey from Libon, Albay to Naga City and previous travels at www.amadopicardal.blogspot.com.

TNF100 Camsur Singlet

2011-04-21T17:47:00.006+08:00

Here is the TNF100 Camsur singlet for the 22km and 11km trail runners. Quality-wise, it is so thin like you would not put it in the washing machine after the race. As to the design, I like it than the tshirt for the ultramarathon participants.

Photo by Nel

Here is the official jersey for the ultramarathon events, the Authentic TNF Tektee Shirt (Vaporwick Fabric).

1st Sta. Elena Invitational Fun Run (5.27.11)

2011-04-19T12:02:00.005+08:00

Here is a fun run in Camarines Norte, Philippines. Join in the 1st Sta. Elena Invitational Fun Run that is happening on May 27, 2011. There will be a 3K, 5K, 10K and a 26K event!

Registration Fee:
3km- P100.00
5km- P250.00
10km- P300.00
26km- P500.00

Where to Register:
Barangay Poblacion Hall, Sta. Elena, Camarines Norte

CONTACTS
Nerissa Flores (Brgy. Admin. Asst.) - 09219586886
Andrew John Ladaga (Brgy. Comm. Organizer) - 09126111365

Photos: Run for Naga River

2011-04-18T15:21:00.010+08:00

Run for Naga River official photographer Randy Villaflor has uploaded his shots last Saturday.

Check out the pictures in his Albums:

Start tagging yourselves!

Dalagan Barcelona (5.14.11) and 3/5/10K Run for Life (5.15.11)

2011-04-18T11:09:00.022+08:00

Vacation grande and a back-to-back run, anyone? Here is a rare opportunity for travelers-runners. You might want to run on May 14 and 15 in Barcelona, Sorsogon and in Legazpi City, Albay.

Known for its beautiful centuries old church made out of coral rocks, Ba rcelona town will hold its first ever running event, the Dalagan Barcelona 2011. You can enjoy swimming in Rizal Beach, one of the best beaches in the region, or in Bulusan Lake before and after the run.

On the following day, join Run for Life in Legazpi. Take the 10km category to see the "other side" of the city. From Peñaranda Park, where the starting and finish line is, the route covers the Old Albay and Port districts of Legazpi.

Check out the official blog of Dalagan Barcelona for more details. Contact Kaloi Garcia in FB for Run for Life.

Upcoming: I Run for Ina (5.7.11)

2011-04-17T17:16:00.024+08:00

The Archdiocese of Caceres will have the I Run for Ina on the 7th of May, and I Bike for Ina on the following Saturday. These events aim to generate support for the construction of the Parish of Padre Pio, Sabang Partido and Production of the TV Program Simbanwaan which will be launched on April 25, 2011.

The running event dubbed as "Mother's Day Run" will have 5km and 10km categories. According to its FB event, starting line will be in Penafrancia Basilica Shrine. Registration fee for 5km is P200 and for 10km is P300.

Race routes and other details have not been released yet. Here is the design of the race jersey for I Bike for Ina (5.14.11).

Previous running events held in honor of the Ina or Lady of Peñafrancia were Fun Run for Ina in April 2010 (left) and I Bike/Run/Walk for INA in September 2010 (right).

24 slots for TNF100 CamSur up for grabs!

2011-04-17T14:14:00.014+08:00

Dispatch Magazine announced that, together with The North Face and the Center for Outdoor Recreation and Expedition (CORE), it is giving away 24 slots for the TNF 100 CamSur Event happening on April 30 - May 1, 2011.

Ten (10) slots for the 11km category
Ten (10) slots for 20km category
Two (2) slots for 50km category
Two (2) slots for the 100km category

To qualify, you must be:
1. At least 18 years old and physically fit for the category you are registering for.
2. A resident of Naga, Legazpi or CamSur in Bicol. Valid I.D’s with home address (e.g. postal ID, driver’s license, SSS ID, TIN ID) must be provided as proof of residency.
3. Currently enrolled in a public school (e.g. highschool, undergrad, post-grad, vocational) and must provide any of the following as proof: school ID with validity period, certification from the school’s registrar’s office or recent report/course card.

Send a scanned copy of the required documents at admin@dispatchmagonline.com or through fax at (632)567-0648 addressed to Dispatch Magazine. Then email them the reason why you deserve to be given the slot. Indicate your complete name, address, telephone and mobile numbers and date the required documents were sent to us. The Dispatch Magazine Editorial Team and CORE (Center for Outdoor and Recreational Expedition) shall screen and select the deserving entries. Some of the entries will be posted to the official facebook fanpage and blogsite.

The winning results shall be announced at www.dispatchmagonline.com and at our facebook fanpage. An official email from admin@dispatchmagonline.com shall be sent to the winners for race kit claiming details. Hurry for the deadline is on Wednesday, April 20, 2011. Goodluck!

I learned that at CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC) in Pili, CamSur, registration fees are cheaper at P2,000 for 100km and 50km categories while it is only P500 for 22km and 11km categories.

Photo by Adonis Gonzales

Run for Naga River (4.16.11)

2011-04-16T13:26:00.008+08:00

Last night, I learned from fellow runners that race bibs can be bought at P50. Run for Naga River would have been the perfect run to join in without registering for reasons I already mentioned here. I also learned that registration fees in TNF100 Asia Pacific Series CamSur are discounted in CWC! Fees for 100km and 50km categories are P2,000 while it is only P500 for 22km and 11km categories.

Caceres Runners Club with Naga City Mayor John Bongat.

Early Saturday morning at Plaza Quezon, Run for Naga River participants were greeted with an apology from the host. The singlets of a number of registrants could not be distributed until 7AM. This kind of blunder had happened in other runs such as in Unilab Run United 2 in November 2010. The additional singlets for the Naga River Run were not delivered on time as it was ordered a day before the event.

Other familiar group of runners, I saw were:

G.R.O. (Gym Runners of Olympia)

NSO Runners

BayanMuna Representative Teddy Casiño led the gun start. He joined in one of the shorter categories. Caceres Runners Club and NSO Runners were too small in number to bag the biggest delegation citation which was won by army trainees. Familiar surnames such as Lagyap, Anoñuevo and Lopez resonated during the awarding ceremonies in the shorter categories. But ultimately, it was a runner from Laguna who finished first in 12km (Men) .

Caceres Runners Club president with Rep. Casiño

This is MY worst run: hitting the wall at Km 10 and losing my money before the gun start.

Photos can be seen here, here, here, here and here.

FREE RUN: Alaska Run Fest 2011 (5.7.11)

2011-04-14T17:54:00.009+08:00

Here is another FREE Run! This time, it is from Alaska.

Alaska Run Fest 2011 Run for Fun will be held at SM Mall of Asia on May 7, 2011. There will be two races: Alaska Family Run and IronKids Run Race.

To avail of FREE Registration for the Alaska Family Run, present any of the following at the RUNNR Store in Bonifacio High Street:

1 Promo Box of Alaska Choco’s Funtastic Six-Saver Pack
1 Promo Box of Alaska Time Anytime Promo (Buy 6 Assorted Alaska 110ml Products, Save PHP5)

ALASKA FAMILY RUN: Parent/Adult and Child Tandem

Categories:
3km – Parent/Adult and Child 4 to 10 years old (only 500 slots are FREE)
5km – Parent/Adult and Child 11 to 14 years old (only 500 slots are FREE)

The first 1,000 pairs who will finish will get this Finisher’s Shirt.

ALASKA IRONKIDS RUN RACE: Open to kids from 6 to 14 years old

Categories:
1km – For kids 6 to 8 years old
1.5km – For kids 9 to 10 years old
2km – For kids 11 to 12 years old
3km – For kids 13 to 14 years old

Assembly/Call/Gun Start Times:

3km – 6:00AM / 6:30AM / 6:45AM
5km – 5:00AM / 5:15AM / 5:30AM

Registration fees are: P500 (per pair) in Alaska Family Run and P400 (per child) in Alaska IronKids Run Race.

Register via online registration at http://www.ironkidsphil.com or http://www.alaskamilk.com.ph, or at the following registration sites:

RUNNR Store, Bonifacio High Street (April 4 to May 1)
L TimeStudio, Greenbelt 1 (April 4 to May 1)
SM Mega Mall Supermarket (April 29 to May 1)

Upcoming: Run for Empowerment/Life! (4.24.11)

2011-04-13T14:07:00.011+08:00

Postscript: RUN FOR EMPOWERMENT/LIFE! was moved on May 28.

Highschool alumni of two universities in Naga City have tied-up for the Run for Empowerment! Run for Life! this coming Easter Sunday. This run organized by ADEN HS 98 and CSI HS 98 will benefit several organizations and individual namely The Hablondawani Integrated Services for Girls and Women in Crisis, Inc., the Ateneo de Naga Golden Knights scholars, children and fellow batchmates needing financial assistance.

A new route, different from the previous ones, will be used in this run which features 10km, 5km and 3km categories.

Start/Finish line will be at Universidad de Sta. Isabel (Peñafrancia Ave.) Turning points are in Queborac for 3km and 5km while for 10km in Taculod (Canaman) via Marupit, Camaligan, CamSur.

Registration starts on April 16, Saturday at Little Adam Asia in Avenue Square, and Naga Tooth Specialist in Plaza Medica. With a worthy cause, registration fees are reasonable at P400 for 10km, P350 for 5km and P300 for 3km.

Upcoming: Run for Naga River (4.16.11)

2011-04-13T09:04:00.031+08:00

To create an awareness campaign, and strangely, to raise fund for the Naga River rehabilitation and maintenance, the City Government of Naga in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Caceres, will join the "run for a cause-craze." Run for Naga River will be the kick-off activity of the long-term Naga River rehabilitation project which has been long-overdue. This will be held this coming Saturday. And there will be more runs for Naga River after this, I learned.

Fittingly though, the route will cover "at least seven bridges" that cross the historic and polluted Naga River. The "run for a cause" will start at Plaza Quezon and end at the grand Porta Mariae in Metropolitan Cathedral.

The event will also be the venue for the launching of the activities that will be part of the long-term activities that will help rehabilitate Naga River. However, unlike the world record-breaking Takbo para sa Ilog Pasig that drew 116,086 runners, the organizers here only expect an attendance of more, if not, less than 2,000 local runners for a run that costs over half a Million pesos!

Monsignor Sañado is sporting the singlet in the photo. (By Randy)

Registration fees compulsorily include the race singlet and bib for 12km is P400, P300 for 6km, and P200 for 3km. Registration centers are at Naga City Hall, Porta Mariae and SM City Naga. About P400,000 which is the projected net income of the run, will go to the fund of the city government for its Naga River rehabilitation project.

Posted in the RUN FOR NAGA RIVER Facebook Event are the following route maps for 12km, 5km (?) and 3km:

Not that I am dismayed with runs with pricey registration fees AND inaccurate route measurements. But my wallet and I am recovering from an injury I got from the back-to-back runs I had in Naga and Legazpi, respectively; and from an overwhelming treat of Hyundai Asia two weeks ago.

And we have an 11.33km-run this coming Saturday in downtown Naga using the route below. Our route will cross four bridges Tabuco, (will skip Delfin Rosales), Colgante, Magsaysay and Almeda in Balatas.

I will miss Run for Naga River.

Map created using MapMyRun.

Upcoming: Binamban Fest Fun Run (5.2.11)

2011-04-12T17:36:00.029+08:00

If you want to have a recovery run or do a side-trip a day after the TNF100 Asia Pacific Series CamSur, the local government unit of Bombon, CamSur will have the Binambam Fest Fun Run. Home of the local delicacy called binamban and a breath-taking three centuries old leaning belfry, the sub-urban town of Bombon is just 15 minutes drive from Naga City.

The fun run which features three categories namely 3km, 6km and 14km, aims to raise the awareness of the locals on waste management. Registration fees are as LOW as P350 for 14km, P200 for 6km and P150 for 3km. The fees include: the official singlet and bib, binamban pack, and a 14km finisher's medal which is made of marble! Aside from the top prizes, consolation prizes await for the top 20 runners.

Major Prizes:
14km Male - 1st P1500; 2nd P1000; 3rd P500
14km Female - 1st P1000; 2nd P700; 3rd P500
6km Male - 1st P700; 2nd P500; 3rd P300
6km Female - 1st P700; 2nd P500; 3rd P300
3km Male - 1st P500; 2nd P400; 3rd P300
3km Female - 1st P500; 2nd P400; 3rd P300

Consolation Prizes:
14km Male/Female - Top 10 P200 each; Top 20 P100 with pin badge
6km Male/Female - Top 10 P200 each

Here are the route maps:
3km category

6km category

14km category

Last October 2010, LGU-Bombon held the Daralaganan sa Bombon Run which was organized by Municipal Councilor and Caceres Runners Club President Eddie Alteza. He is one of the most generous local race organizers, I must say.

Let's keep our fingers crossed and hope that PNoy will declare Monday a holiday!

Updates: TNF100 Asia Pacific Series CamSur

2011-04-12T10:12:00.019+08:00

Organizers of TNF100 Asia Pacific Series CamSur held a press conference last week. Registration, route maps and other details can be found at the official website.

Here is a GOOD NEWS to the early 50km and 100km registrants!

Aside from getting free round trip from ROX to CWC (first 100 only), you will also get a TNF visor as bonus. Top 50 finishers in each category will also receive a visor.

Official jersey for the ultramarathon events is the Authentic TNF Tektee Shirt (Vaporwick Fabric) and a TNF100 Visor for those lucky and tough ones.

Photos from Tnf Ph in Facebook

6K Despidida Fun Run for BB Florece (4.7.11)

2011-04-07T17:58:00.015+08:00

Caceres Runners Club's star runner Florence who is affectionately called BB by fellow runners and friends, has gone places for her passion. She has become a favorite in races and a perennial winner in every category she joins in. In the coming days, however, she will take a new route and run a different race optimistic and determined to win her dreams.

This morning, the whole team had the 6K Despidida Fun Run for BB Florece who will fly on Monday to the States (I'm still curious though why there is an Australian map on the poster hence I wrote in the souvenir tarp "BEAT THE OZZYs!!!) to bid her farewell and good luck. The route covered the club's turf, the Basilica grounds, and the major streets of Naga. It is a route that has become her playground.

There was no competition in the Despidida run. It was a pace run led by Florence, Jing and Riz. For the reason that BB believes in running coming first, in the middle of the pack or last doesn't matter. That what is important is finishing it. And there is a lot of satisfaction in that, she added.

Although I missed the run because I set the alarm too early and woke up at 6:45AM already, I still went and joined the breakfast with the team.

(Photos by Jun, Ed and Jing)

2nd Hyundai Fun Run 2012

2011-04-05T11:53:00.011+08:00

The Hyundai fever is not over. And I do not think the excitement will subside.

This early, people are excited for the announcement of the 2nd Hyundai Fun Run. Nobody knows when it is going to be. Do we have to wait for 2012? One thing is sure, it is going to happen!

Remember Hyundai's statement?

Commit to run with us on 2nd of April 2011 and we commit to another Hyundai Free Run! See you at the Quirino Grandstand!

And yes, we did! Over 20,000 runners responded. Unbelievable.

By the way, I just joined churpchurp and I instantly get rewarded! Join now!

Route maps: TNF100 Asia Pacific Series CamSur

2011-04-05T08:34:00.014+08:00

Route maps for TNF100 Asia Pacific Series CamSur has been released at the official website.

All categories except for the 22km will start and finish at the CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC). The starting point for the 22km will be at the Deer Farm situated at the foot of Mount Isarog!

You can use also use Wikimapia to study the route and get familiarized with the terrain.

Good news! It was also announced that the registration has been extended until April 27, 2011. As stated in the website, registration fees are at “early bird” rates and may increase without prior notice.

Photos: Hyundai Run for a Cause

2011-04-05T08:10:00.004+08:00

Official photographs are now upload at Activemoments.net.

To search for your photo, simply enter your BIB number at the search box above and hit "Enter".

Enjoy!