Fit and Run.Info

Jumping Cebuanas in Mayon 360

estan — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 09:04:48 +0000

Coleen and Lyra still managed to do a jump shot after running 81 kilometers around Mt. Mayon Volcano

Hats off to these two women from Cebu: Coleen and Lyra. Bisag nag zombie walk na gani (even if they’re already zombie walking), they still managed to do the jump shot.

And just consider this, they did this after running for 81 kilometers in the just recently concluded Mayon 360, Albay province’s only ultramarathon around the scenic volcano, now on its second year (gallery here).

While shooting late in the afternoon in Sto. Domingo, with the last few hours of the race’s cut off time, I chanced upon Coleen on the road and she was all smiles. In her Facebook page, she wrote:

Thanks for this, Estan! I was so glad to see a familiar face on the road to Legazpi. Dako kaayo akong smile (I really had a big smile).

Congrats ladies for making it!Similar Posts:

Mayon 360 2012 gallery

estan — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:02:01 +0000

Runners getting ready for the gunstart

I salute the runners who did the Mayon 360 ultramarathon last Saturday, 21 April in Albay. Despite being too tired and at the last few hours before cut-off, they still smiled for the camera.

This is the second year of Mayon 360 where I was again able to cover. The images below.

[Show as slideshow]

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My new Reebok Flex

estan — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 15:01:04 +0000

My new Reebok Flex

Team Reebok runners: Beep beep, Kassy and Titanium Runner during the Reebok Flex launch last Friday the 13th at Eastwood City

I’m now a proud owner of Reebok Flex shoes, the latest running gear courtesy of Reebok Philippines! The shoe was just launched last Friday the 13th at Eastwood City’s Walk 2 with some challenges posed to participants and attendees.

Just a few hours ago, I tested my pair which also marks my return to the road after suffering some knee injuries but having had clearance from my doctor a few days ago. I will just take it slow but wear Reebok Flex to get a feel of this new running gear. A thorough review will follow soon.Similar Posts:

Are you ready for the Mayon 360 2012?

estan — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 10:04:12 +0000

Happening on 21 April, 2012, the most awaited Legazpi ultramarathon, the Mayon 360 will unfold. Here, runners go around the beautiful Mt. Mayon volcano in a 50 mile race that will not only test their running mettle but also make this race one of the most scenic. Just imagine, a 360 degree view of the world’s most perfect cone. Just like last year, I will be covering this event.

For registration and additional info, check out the Mayon 360 website.

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Merlita Arias-Dunkin’s speech on ultramarathon running

estan — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 09:05:01 +0000

Winning the Mayon 360

This is the short speech that the Queen of trail and ultramarathon running, Merlita Arias-Dunkin delivered during a talk at Ayala Active Zone. Originally posted in her Facebook profile.

What Is An Ultra Marathon?

A marathon is 26 miles 385 yards long. An ultra-marathon is any event longer. Typically, 30 miles, 50 miles, and 100 miles. There are other distances, but those are the most popular. There are also timed events: 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, and even multi day-races. Some are run on roads, some on trails, and some (mainly timed events) on a track.

Why Do An Ultra Marathon?

For some it’s the challenge of going even longer. For others it’s the challenge discovering personal limits, then breaking them. And others have mastered the marathon and need bigger more challenging events. Whatever your reason for embarking on this grueling challenge… you’re certain to learn two things about yourself:

#1) Your level of commitment to running, and

#2) Your personal limits….both mental and physical.

How to Train for an Ultra Marathon

Just about anyone can finish a marathon. Finishing an ultra-marathon isn’t as certain. Besides the planning, training and commitment, you must be physically and mentally strong enough to complete both the ultra marathon training and the race itself. You’ll also need to adapt to the concept of taking in nutrition while ultra marathon training and during the race. Simple energy gels and electrolyte replacement drinks won’t cut it when you’re running for 5-24 or more hours.

Before you begin your ultra marathon training, you need to have at least 3 consistent years of running experience. You should also have completed at least 3 marathons. Your marathon finishing times aren’t important.

Next, select a race and set a personal goal. Your goal may be just finishing the distance, completing the distance within a certain time, or racing to finish in the top ten. Unless you’re a very experienced marathoner, your goal should be just to finish.

1. Select the ultra marathon you run with great care.

Ultra marathons vary by a variety of factors:
- Total Length
- Total Duration
- Profitable Charities
- Location
- Rules

You have to take all of these things into consider to select the ultra marathon that will suit your needs. First consider the number of miles in the entire race and the date of the race. If you don’t have enough time to train for the race, then consider waiting to do it the following year or choosing another race. Next consider whether the race is to be completed in one day or over a longer period of time. Make sure you can clear your calendar to fully participate to the end.

Finally, consider where the race will be completed, the rules for participation, and the charity to benefit from the proceeds. Make sure everything is to your liking before signing up.

2. Don’t ditch the weekly long run.

You probably included a weekly long run in your marathon training plan, right? You won’t get rid of it while training for the ultra marathon. Keep the long run in the plan and use it to push your body and play with pacing for the race. Make sure to give yourself a day of recovery afterwards because you will need it.

3. Balance shorter runs between harder training sessions and more casual runs.

Your training schedule should include some runs that are more leisurely and others that are more intense. Even a short workout can be challenging if you go at a pace that is a bit uncomfortable or do intense interval training. These harder workouts will improve your speed and endurance, which will help you during the race.

4. Include regular recovery periods.

Your training plan must include periods of recovery where you take your training down by about ten percent. Some long distance runners prefer to break their training down into month long segments with one week out of every month dedicated to recovery. You can divide your training time any way that fits your lifestyle, as long as these ultra marathon training tips are followed.

You probably took days of recovery when training for your marathon, but you will need a longer period of recovery when running harder and longer for the ultra marathon.

During the Mayon 360

5. Keep the core of your body as strong as possible.

Don’t just focus on your legs so they can carry you through the race. Your entire body needs to be strong, especially the core muscles. Your lower body muscles may be what you feel working the most during a long distance run, but rest assured those legs could not make it to the end without the support of your abdominals, back and chest muscles.

6. Don’t buy into supplements, gels and other products marketed to runners.

Beginner runners often think they have to use the many products marketed to runners and athletes for muscle development, stamina and refueling. They buy into the bars, gels, drink mixes, and endless supplements because they think it is how the best runners gain the edge.

In reality, the best runners tend to be those that use very little of those products.Rather than going for gels and special waters, hydrate with a sports drink. Don’t mix water and sports drink or gels and don’t rely entirely on water as it can be harmful over the course of a long run.

Stick with fresh vegetables and fruits, especially leafy green veggies, rather than buying into supplements. You can make smoothies or start juicing to get the vitamins and minerals that you need to keep your body healthy through the intense training. If you eat to fuel your body rather than for taste, you will not need all of those expensive supplements.

The best ultra marathon nutrition varies from runner to runner. Do some testing!

7. Pay attention to your body.

This is the best of all ultra marathon training tips. You will have days of feeling tired, but you shouldn’t be so exhausted you can’t pull yourself up and gain some energy for the day. You may have aches, but you should never be in real pain. Listen to your body and you will avoid a lot of injuries common to long distance runners.

8. Don’t be ashamed to walk when needed.

If you have been running a long time, you might feel a bit offended that someone is telling you to walk. You aren’t a walker, you’re a runner! This is a normal reaction from those who feel walking is for beginners. Just remember that you are a beginner when it comes to training for extremely long distances.

No matter how many marathons you have run, you may need to walk some while training for the ultra marathon. You may even need to walk some during the ultra marathon. Some of the best runners will be walking as well, so consider it part of the game.

9. Don’t focus too much on speed.

Just as you need to free yourself to walk as needed, you should free yourself to slow the pace as needed. Ultra marathon tips prepare you to go the distance, but you don’t have to be in the lead all the time. Speed may eventually be something you focus on heavily, but right now take it easy when you need it. That goes for training and the big race.

10. Get your head straight.

During your long runs, pay attention to your attitude and the thoughts in your head. Ultra marathons are mental games more than they are physical.

If you give up in your mind, your body will soon follow. If you convince yourself that you can do this and that you are strong and powerful, then your body will believe it and keep going.
Use inspirational quotes, motivating music, or any other tools you need to keep your mind positive and focused.

Creed For The Ancient Marathoner

For those who are about to reach their “half-century” age and “senior citizen” status, the following “creed” is nice to read and as a good reference. This creed applies to me!

Creed for the Ancient Marathoner or ultra runner

1. Honor the run. Train enough, but not too much. Don’t rely on yesterday’s experience for today’s challenge. Be true to the task. Know
that you are the torchbearer for those younger. You show them not just what you can do but what they will be able to do. You show
them their future.

2. Don’t be surprised. Train in the heat and in the cold. Know how to drink and eat. Know where each step is taking you.

3. Don’t take any extra weight along with you; be spare.

4. Be rested, be fresh, and arrive at the start ready for a full go. Know that each part of you is ready to go the full course.

5. Age is not an excuse. It is an advantage. Each of us has been up our personal hill more often than the younger runners. We are older, we have experienced more, we have more to give—and we understand more.

6. Don’t make excuses. Don’t rely on someone else. You are in charge. You alone can crest the rise, fight the fatigue, master the moment.

7. Although you are in charge of yourself, you are not alone. Your number increases. You run in the footsteps you have made—but also in the paths of Emil, Frank, Johnny, Grete, Clarence, George, and others. You tie your shoes with their laces. You are one with the heroes and heroines.

8. Don’t compete with your yesterday. No one can defeat you. Be the best that you can be this day. By being your best today, you will
prepare for being your best tomorrow.

9. Listen to the wisdom of your body. It is older. It has been tested. It knows how. Pay respect and learn from its teachings.

10. Have fun, don’t take the run too seriously, be confident.

“It is never too late to start, but it is too soon to stop”

- Merlita Arias Dunkin‘The Queen of the trail and ultra marathoner’.
Philippine Sky Runner MemberSimilar Posts:

1.4.3. Go 2, a run for the Philippine Heart Center

estan — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:18:38 +0000

Check out this run for a cause that will benefit the pediatric charity patients of the Philippine Heart Center and organized by UPOBEM. For more info, check the 1.4.3. Go 2 site.Similar Posts:

BDM 160 Ultramarathon 2012 gallery

estan — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:42:58 +0000

Finally after a busy week and some problems, I’m posting images of the Bataan Death March Ultramarathon 160, my second time to cover this very challenging event organized by Bald Runner.

I’m really having problems with displaying the images at the runners’s gallery that’s why I’m putting it here in the post.

[Show as slideshow]

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Beep beep running inside Marco Polo Hotel Cebu

estan — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 06:50:17 +0000

After covering the Run United Cebu 2011, the final leg of the provincial running series, I had a blast shooting Beep Beep running inside the Marco Polo Hotel in Cebu. Well, this is just for fun but perhaps, can be sketches for future projects. Would’ve been much better if we were able to shoot inside Cafe Marco with diners.

Running at the lounge

Running at the grand staircase

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Run United Cebu 2011 gallery

estan — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:36:48 +0000

Few minutes before the gunstart for 21K.

It sure was a big event as Run Rio held its first race in Cebufor Unilab’s Run United 2011 provincial series, the final leg which was well attended by local runners, some even coming from Manila and Cebu’s surrounding provinces.

Together with 7 other blogger runners, I was invited by Unilab to cover the event but instead of running, I still have my runner’s knee, I took photos of runner participants.

This race gallery has 624 images and mainly from 10K and 21K with just less than ten under 5K and the 500m dash for kids. You can just grab your copy but please, respect the photographer by not cutting off the signature below the image. If you want a photo without the signature or for printing purposes, you can always send me photo request via the contact form.

[Show as slideshow]

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A few more days to Run United Cebu

estan — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:27:41 +0000

Just a few more days to go and it will be Run United Cebu race day! I think, for jaded Cebuano runners, Run United Cebu will come off as a different kind of race, its a Run Rio for a start, and with exciting freebies, technology (first to use iPAD automated registration) and experience that the organizer (with Runcheck) will have in store for participants.

Get ready as FitandRun will cover this event.

Press release:

Run United Cebu Caps Off a Busy Year for Unilab Active Health

Run United Cebu next weekend, which is expected to attract 5,000 participants, is a fitting finale to what has been quite a busy year for Unilab Active Health. The run race in the ‘Queen City of the South’ is the fifth and final leg of the Run United Provincial Series, which had successful runs in Davao, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro and Baguio.

“We could not have chosen a better venue for our culminating event this year. We hear that response for Run United Cebu is quite good and that the number of registrants is nearing our target number of participants,” said Alex Panlilio, Head of Unilab Active Health.

Registration sites for Run United Cebu are Toby’s in SM City Cebu, Runnr in Ayala Center Cebu, and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) office at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) or online through www.runrio.com. To avoid errors, Run United uses the first ever iPad automated registration in the country.

“Our target number of participants for Run United Cebu is higher than in races in other provinces because Cebu ranks second to Manila in terms of number of runners. So we expect the highest turnout, among our provincial races, next weekend,” said Rio dela Cruz, Head of RunRio Inc., the organizer of Run United series.

There will be five race categories at Run United Cebu, which includes 500m dash for kids, 3k, 5K, 10K, and 21K. It will be held on December 18 at the Cebu IT Park. There will be no cut-off time for the 21k category.

Registration fee is P500 for the 21K, P400 for the 10K, P350 for the 5K, and P200 for the 500-meter dash, which will have two age categories—kids 5 to 8 years old and 9 to 12 years old.

“We want every member of the family to participate, so we have a race category for kids as well. We were the first to feature a 500m dash. We want to start them young and to keep the kids active, away from too much computer games and television,” said dela Cruz.

Run United participants will get a limited edition race singlet, bib-tag timing chip and a finisher’s sports bag. Runners as well as their families and friends can get more freebies and product samples at the Unilab Active Health Village for the Active Kids, Active Adults and Active Seniors. Fun games and photo booth stations are also available at the venue.

The Run United series and the other events of Unilab Active Health— Bike United and Tri United, are in line with Unilab’s advocacy to promote a healthy and active lifestyle among Filipino families.“More and more Filipinos are really getting into the active bandwagon. We will remain committed towards providing them with high-quality events to keep them active and healthy,”added Panlilio.

Indeed, Unilab Active Health has lined up bigger and better things next year. Dela Cruz and Panlilio recently announced the inclusion of a 42K or full marathon in the Run United race categories.

Thus, Run United Philippine Marathon will be the culminating event of the Run United Series in Metro Manila every year. Thus, the sequence of events would be as follows: Run United 1 in March; Run United 2 in June; Run United 3 in September; and Run United Philippine Marathon in October. The exact dates are yet to be finalized and announced together with the full 2012 Unilab Active Health Calendar.

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