running nanay

The Great UP Run 2024

2024-11-29T20:45:00.004+08:00

I began dreaming of joining fun runs again earlier this year. My initial goal was to do it with my unico hijo. I wanted to fulfill my long time dream of running with him in an official run event. Back then, I would sign him up to kiddie runs. I had a vision that someday we would join longer runs when he gets older. And now that time has come.

We targeted the Yakult 10-Miler in September. However, the slots for the 10k event ran out fast and we failed to register. It would have been nice if this was our first run together because I used to join this with his pop.

A few weeks later, I came across a post about The Great UP Run in my Facebook timeline. It was a fund raising event for UP varsity athletes. Coach Rio dela Cruz, a UP alumnus, organized it through his RunRio company. I like the look of the finishers medal, the singlet, the optional shirt and most of all the venue. So, I signed us up and waited for the D-Day.

D-Day was November 17, 2024, Sunday. Unfortunately, a strong typhoon was battering us that day so the event had to be rescheduled. The typhoon signal was up at #2 in our area that day but it wasn’t raining. It was just gloomy. But safety first, so we just had to wait for the new date.

It was rescheduled six days later, November 23 (Saturday).

Unlike the Women’s Run PH last month, this time I wasn’t late. We were at the venue about 3o minutes before the gun start. We had time to do our warm ups and watch the pre-run festivities. We heard Coach Rio’s introduction speech, the countdown, the gun start and witnessed the fireworks as the run commences.

It was such a vibe to start the race with my son and all the other runners. The energy of the community was exhilarating. The downside was, running with a crowd is a bit of a challenge in a cramped space. This is especially true in the first few meters. Everyone is so psyched up and excited to speed up. Sometimes you get side swiped or bumped.

The 10k race route was pretty much the same as my last run. The only difference was in the last 500m. Instead of going in front of the Oblation statue, we took the lane behind it going to the Finish Line in front of Palma Hall.

As was last time, some areas were poorly lit. We could not see the ground we were running on. I have seen at least 3 runners stumble because they did not see the hump in the road.

Hydration stations serving water and Gatorade were placed at regular intervals along the race route. I like that the Gatorade stations were serving their drinks in reusable cups. I just hope that they wash it thoroughly before reusing it again.

Kilometer/road markers were placed along the way to inform the runners how much they’ve ran and how much to go. And even if I can track myself through my watch, I still appreciate seeing these big, bold markers. It’s like mini milestones and my inner self celebrates whenever I pass by one.

Overall, I had an excellent run. I was not able to train in the past two weeks but I still managed to get a new PR! Yahoo! I was 9 minutes faster than last time!

And of course, it was an “achievement unlocked” moment to be able to run with my dearest boy in an official event. We did not run side by side because I will just slow him down. But we did start at the same time and met up after the run. He finished about 16 minutes earlier than me.

Post run breakfast was at Gyud Food, a food hub located inside the UP Campus. It was a little early so some of the stalls were still closed. We ended up ordering Bagnet Sisig from Ate Ricas’s Bacsilog. It was tasty and satisfying for less than P200 meal.

Well, that’s it for 2024. Train more ’til the end of the year for a stronger and hopefully a faster me next year. And praying for more runs with ma boy. Until the next run…

Women's Run PH 2024

2024-10-26T17:20:00.000+08:00

The last time I joined a fun run was over 10 years ago. And between those years, I lived a pretty much sedentary existence. There were several attempts to adapt a healthier lifestyle but never really succeeded. So this run was more than a one day event for me. It was the culmination of several months of struggle to becoming a better version of myself.

Motivation and Signing Up

Early this year, one of my admired celebrity had took up running and was seen in the streets of Ayala Ave during car-free Sundays. Seeing his photos and video clips brought back memories of my running days and made me want go back into the game. Quoting one of his favorite lines, “Let’s go!”

So I started training while looking for possible run events that I can join.

I think I found Women’s Run PH in Facebook. It’s the first time I’ve heard of it and my initial reaction was, “Women’s Run? All women? Really?”. I checked their website and liked what I saw. Their advocacy of promoting women’s health thru running is awesome.

And then I found out that the founder was Nicole Wuthrich-dela Cruz, the wife of Coach Rio dela Cruz of RunRio. I know of Coach Rio back in the early days of his RunRio company. I even had a photo with him during one of the running events that his company organized. I am familiar with his inspiring life story as well as his love story. His proposal to Nicole in 2011 was a real sweetie.

Anyway, I signed up as early as July and bravely committed to a 10k run even though I can barely run a kilometer without passing out at that time!

Preparation

I have never appreciated our home treadmill that much until I signed up for this event. It was a joint purchase with my sister 2 years ago but I have not fully utilized it until today. It was that equipment that helped me improve my running form and speed without the need to go out. I also do outdoor runs but only on Sunday mornings in UP Diliman with my 18yo son.

Last July 20, I joined a WRPH and UP Dreamers organized Training Run in UP Diliman. It was a 5k run that took me forever to finish. But a few days later, I signed up for the 10km event. Crazy, right?

Gear Up

As I mentioned, I was pretty much a couch potato in the past several years. So, I purchased a few items to inspire me to get my butt off the couch and do the work to reach my goal. Nothing fancy, just stuff that I considered essential even back in the day.

First and foremost, I bought a new pair of running shoes because I didn’t have one. A reliable pair that would carry me from Start to Finish of a 10km course.

Second, I got myself a running watch so I can track myself. It gives a tangible evidence of my progress.

And lastly, a week before the day, I purchased an open ear wireless head phone so I can listen to music while I run. It’s also a sort of distraction to help me concentrate on the present and not worry about how far before the finish line.

Race Kit Delivery Hiccup

The race kit delivery started in September but I still have not received mine two weeks before the event. Apparently there was some an attempt to deliver before but it failed and the item was returned to the organizers. However, I was not informed about any of this. Had I not inquired when I did, I do not know what would have happened to my race kit. It took about a week of back and forth emailing (because they do not have a phone number) with the organizers before I finally received my kit.

D-Day

Expectation: Get there early and meet up with my cousin who also signed up for the 10km run. I was looking forward to seeing her because we have not seen each other for quite a while. I was also excited about the pre-run events – opening talk of the founder, the pep talk, the warm-up exercises and of course the sound of the gun start while colorful confetti shower upon the charging runners.

Reality: We got stuck in traffic at the corner of Commonwealth and University Avenue that I was compelled to go down and walk/run the rest of the way. So in reality, my race began about a kilometer before the official starting line. When I got there, the official clock says that the other runners had a 3min head start already.

My stomach was already in knots since the previous day worrying that I might not reach my goal. So being late for the very first time since I started joining runs only made me more stressed. But as they say, the show must go on. It took a while, though, before I got my bearings back. I think it was after I made it to the first water station (at the 2km mark) and had my much needed drink, that I started to calm down.

The “good morning” greeters and cheerers stationed at different parts of the race track were a mood booster. They were so jolly you can’t help but smile.

Several water stations serving water and Gatorade starting from the 2km mark and at regular intervals throughout the course. We were adequately hydrated. And I appreciate the fact that no used paper cups were littered on the ground. Everyone were responsible enough to dispose them properly.

Road markers showing directions and kilometers ran were placed along the way. Each kilometer marker passed always feels like a little win and I quietly rejoice. There were also some motivational quotes to keep our spirits up.

Several photographers were positioned in almost each corner of the race course. They were an added motivation especially at times when I felt tired because I tend to be faster on my feet to either get away from them asap (because I don’t want my photo taken) or look like a serious runner if they do take a shot.

I guess my only issue was during the first hour when it was still dark. There were areas where I would have appreciated a street lamp or any source of light. It was a little unnerving to not see the ground I was running on.

Finish Line

Despite the late start, I was still able to finish in less than 2 hours. Goal achieved! A milestone for this almost golden gal who can’t even climbed up a flight of stairs without getting breathless just a few months ago.

It was a happy surprise to find distinguished men in barong awarding each runner with their finishers medal by carefully placing them on their necks. I felt like a real winner!

Abundant Loot Bag

The finisher’s loot bag was filled with so much goodies. From sunscreens to drinks to medicines. There was still several booths in the venue giving away freebies but I was already too tired to line up.

Post Run

Hubby and I went for the big kill – a breakfast buffet! I figured I deserved it. We went to Sweet Inspirations in Katipunan where I had 2 plateful rounds in the buffet table plus coffee and orange juice. Then dessert of Maja Blanca and Puto Bumbong.

Overall, I had a good run. Personal goal achieved with no injuries and a bountiful loot bag to take home. On to the next run…

2013 PSE Bull Run

2013-01-13T18:46:00.003+08:00

December 13, 2012 - Bonifacio Global City

Unfortunately I failed to register for this year's run so this post is about my husband who got a free race kit from his office. He did the 3k run with 3 of his officemates and I was there to capture their winning moment =)

2012 was pretty much a slack season for me for so many reasons (excuses!). On our way to BGC this morning, I realized that it has been a year since I have been there. And that was during the last PSE Bull Run in 2012! OMG!

One thing that was very obvious was the fact that several establishments were built last year. And those areas that used to be activity areas for running events has been converted to either buildings, parks or parking lots. Even Boni High Street has been extended to the next block. BGC seems to be getting a bit too small for running events now.

As to the event, it seems there were less people who joined this year compared to last year. 5k participants only covered a third of the street where the run started. It used to be 5k events were overflowing with runners.

The 3k event was participated with the least number of runners. My husband did this event for the 2nd year in a row.

Hubby with his running buddies

Hubby finished in about 30 minutes then we set off to find Mercato for breakfast. But we got lost so we went back to Boni High Street and settled for Seattles Best. Had a good and hearty breakfast.

It was nice to be back in BGC for a running event. Hopefully it won't take another year for us to come back.

Post-run activity with our little guy

36th Milo Marathon - National Finals

2012-12-09T12:52:00.000+08:00

December 09, 2012 - SM Mall of Asia

Another 10k done! Yehey!

And another Milo Marathon on my list!

Thankfully I was in better shape this morning than I was during last week's QCIM. I shaved off 11minutes off my record from 1:46 last week to 1:35 this week. My legs have also recovered well so I was able to run more (and less walk) today than last week. *bow*

I think starting an hour earlier helped a lot as it was considerably much cooler today. The 10k gun start for Milo was at 5am while QCIM started at 6am. It's hard to run (or do anything for that matter) if the scorching sun is breathing down your neck.

Hydration stations were overflowing with water and Powerade so I was fully hydrated the whole time.

All in all, it was a good run. Til next year....

Me and my sister, my ever loyal running buddy

Post-race photo ops with my little kulit

Source: www.runrio.com

35th Milo Marathon - Manila Eliminations (July 2011)

QC International Marathon 2012

2012-12-02T13:49:00.000+08:00

December 2, 2012 - Commonwealth Ave.

This is my 2nd QCIM and I think it was better than the first in terms of weather, route and hydration stations.

Weather

Mr. Sun was at its best today compared to a very gloomy run last year. Although it was cooler in the previous year, I had a hard time going home because I got drenched from the rain.

Traffic

Traffic along Commonwealth Ave was also better this time around. The run only took the inner lanes from both sides so motorists can still pass at the outer lanes. Last year, they closed the whole side going to Novaliches so all vehicles were cramped on the other side causing bumper-to-bumper traffic. This year, traffic was smoother except for very few areas.

Hydration

Hydration stations was aplenty this year. Where there used to be only 2 tables of hydration station, this year it was about 3 meters long. Still no power drinks but at least there was plenty of water.

Performance

My performance on the other hand is a different story altogether. I have been inactive for quite a while so I didn't really expect a spectacular finish. I signed up for 10k 3 weeks ago and only started training then. The last week could not even be counted because there were other things I needed to attend to so I was not able to train.

As expected, I was of already out of breath even before reaching my first kilometer. I was getting doubtful if I'll even reach the turn-around point, much less finish the whole race. But I could not face that kind of failure so I struggled on. I promised myself that I will finish it even if I have to walk thru it all. And I did - walk my way through it all. I think I walked 80% of the time. I even found myself a walking buddy at the last 3kms.

Post-race

It has been 6hrs since I finished the race and I can feel the cramps in my legs. That's a sure sign that it has not been used for strenuous activity for quite a long time. Going down the stairs is the most painful. Ouchie!

I have another 10k race next Sunday. Hopefully my legs recover well.

Related Story: QC International Marathon 2011

Starting Over

2012-11-11T16:12:00.001+08:00

After a pitiful 20k total run and gaining 10lbs since the start of the year, can I do a 10k race in 3 weeks? Good luck, right?

The Quezon City International Marathon on Dec 2 would be my come back race and will be followed by the 36th Milo Marathon National Finals a week later.

So I'll be hitting the gym and ran laps in UP in the next 3 weeks. Anyone wants to join me?

Tiktakbo 5

2012-09-09T12:14:00.003+08:00

September 9, 2012 - UP Diliman Academic Oval

This is Miguel's 2nd time to join this run. Last year he did the 250m dash with a couple of my runner moms' kids. I ran along side him but I was not officially registered.

Since we already did our first 3k together last March via the Good Housekeeping Fun Run, I figured we could do another 3k with Tiktakbo. And so we did.

Prepping before the run

We both took our time. We were not running to beat PRs or anything. Heck, I couldn't even run faster than I did even if I wanted to. That's how out of shape I am. I wanted to, at least, run the last meter to the finish line for "show" but Miguel did not want to. He says he's tired so I obliged and we walked our way to the end.

Walking to the end

Post race photo

We finished another race, yehey! And this is Miguel's 5th run.

2011 Good Housekeeping Family Run - 250m dash
2011 Unilab Run United 2 - 500m dash
2011 Tiktakbo 4 - 250m dash
2012 Good Housekeeping Family Run - 3k (our first official run together, meaning we were both registered in the same race and we both had running bibs/singlets)

'Til our next race together.....

Good Housekeeping Family Fun Run 2012

2012-03-31T16:00:00.001+08:00

Today my unico hijo attempted to run a 3k race and succeeded! Yippe-ya-yo!

The Good Housekeeping Family Run in 2011 was his first official run where he did the 100m dash along with other kids. This year I thought he might be ready to go to the next level so I decided to amp it up a little. I registered both of us in the 3k run, a category that was really intended for parent and child tandem. It would be a first official run together in the same category!

The run was held in BGC this year. Our scheduled gun start was at 6:15am but we were there as early as 5:30am.

Pre-race shots

This year's host: My fave radio DJs, Chico & Del of The Morning Rush - Monster Radio RX 93.1

When the countdown started from the last 15 seconds to gun start, there was that excited smile that flashed across Miguel's face. Precious! Then we started running.

Obstacle course for kids

He enjoyed the obstacle course placed halfway thru the 3k race.

My little runner

I have been out of the running scene for quite a while now so I'm really out of shape. This morning's 3k run had left me panting. I needed to hold Miguel's hand or else he will run away from me especially when he can already glimpse the finish line. He got so excited that he wanted to do a sprint.

Miguel, wait for meeeeee!

At the finish line

Family pic c/o Baicapture

Thanks Good Housekeeping for this annual family run. We had a great time. Until next year...

Hyundai Run for a Cause 2012

2012-03-30T20:52:00.000+08:00

In April 2011, Hyundai organized a FREE run that filled the whole stretch of Roxas Boulevard from Luneta to EDSA with thousands of runners. From what I heard, about 24,000 runners joined the event. It was one of the best runs I have the pleasure of joining. And it was free!

See my post on last year's Hyundai Run for a Cause here.

This year Hyundai is organizing another run that aims to support various causes such as:

Education
Community Development
Filipino Heritage and Pride
Environmental Sustainability
Road Safety and Responsible Car Ownership
Youth Development Through Sports
Women and Children's Rights
Social Entrepreneurship

Date: April 29, 2012.
Venue: Quirino Grandstand
Distances: 5k and 10k
Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/hyundairunforacause

I will update this post as details become available.

Outbreak Manila

2012-03-29T21:51:00.000+08:00

This run is so twisted! I mean zombies running after you? Imagine that. I salute the one who conceptualized this innovative run. Cheers to the organizers and the runners who registered. May you all cross the finish line 'alive'.

Outbreak Manila will be held on April 14, 2012 at Nuvali, Sta. Rosa.
Official Website: http://www.outbreakmanila.com/
Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/outbreakmanila

Family Fun Run

2012-03-13T14:03:00.000+08:00

Update on March 13, 2012

We're finally registered! Yehey!

Original Post: Jan. 15, 2012

Got a surprising invite from hubby last night to go on a morning run in UP today. He has always been supportive of my running activities but has declined my numerous invitations to join me.

It is such an effort to get out of bed that early when the weather is like this - cool and comfy. Felt like the bed grew two arms and were hugging me to stay put. So I actually overslept We were supposed to leave at 6:30am but I was still struggling to open my eyes around that time. Finally before 7am, we finally got our big butts outta bed and drove to UP.

I did not really expect to do a long run because Miguel was with us. Since I want to do a 3k with him via the Good Housekeeping Family Run 2012 in March, we made this morning's run his first training.

And as expected we only managed one round because Miguel was already complaining of being tired after doing a 1.5k straight run. That's good enough for him for now. We will try again next week =)

Today was the first time the three of us ran side by side with each other. Happiness!

Thanks to my sister, Kath, for taking our picture =)

Good Housekeeping Family Fun Run 2012 FB Event page : http://www.facebook.com/events/317288518302519/

2012 PSE Bull Run

2012-01-08T20:23:00.003+08:00

My 3rd PSE Bull Run - 2003 or 2004 (can't remember anymore) - 5k, 2011 -5k and now 2011 - 16k *bow*.

Finished my 3rd 16k run but it was not by any means impressive, even by my standards (which means very low, hehe). Well, it was entirely my fault. That's what I get for failing to allot time for training. As early as the 11th km, my legs and my feet had started to cramp. I had to walk most of the way. Good thing the organizers did not use the McKinley Hill area or I might have crossed the finish line in a medic's van. My legs will surely not survive the hills of McKinley Hill.

Crossing the finish line

16k Finishers

Anyway, in my previous post, I mentioned that this run was one that I shared with my dear Tatay because he celebrated his birthday today. He says he enjoyed the run. Happiness!

Me & my sister with our dear Tatay, the birthday boy =)

This run was also hubby's first run after several years. He got a free race kit from the office.

Me & hubby

Pushing aside my shortcomings resulting to a disappointing finish, the race was generally okay. Except for an instance somewhere along the first 2kms of the 16k race when the marshalls tending the traffic gave us mixed signals on how to proceed as cars had started to pile up in the area. Other than that, the whole run went on smoothly.

The weather was cool. It was actually pretty cloudy and a few very short drizzles were encountered during the race but it never became a full-blown rain.

There were enough hydration stations and even a shower sprinkler. Was also able to get my first ever banana on a race route. From what I know, the bananas were really for 21k runners but I was getting really hungry and my legs were starting to cramp round that time so I helped myself to one banana. I was ready to return it had the marshalls told me so but they didn't so ate it.

Loot bag consisted of a banana, an apple, a small can of Century Vienna Sausage, a finishers shirt, and the medal. Since I finished quite late, the finisher's shirt were in L and XL only. I guess, hubby has a new shirt =)

So there goes my first run for 2012. Looking forward to more runs this year!

Happy Birthday, 'Tay

2012-01-06T20:05:00.001+08:00

Tatay will be having his birthday this weekend and we will celebrate it by joining the PSE Bull Run 2012 in BGC. The whole family will be there but only 4 of us will be running. After the run, we will treat him to a hearty Sunday breakfast - BGC style (whatever that is!)

You see, Tatay has been a runner ever since I can remember. He would always be up early to jog around the neighborhood. If that is not possible (like if it's raining), he runs in place inside the house. His discipline to be consistently active thru regular exercise is one of the things I admire about him. He's past 60yo now but his morning routine has not changed. He's slower, yes, but he still wakes up at the break of dawn to go out and jog or just walk.

When my sister and I caught the fitness bug in the early 2000, we would join him on his weekend runs. We would jog/walk around the Letre-C3/C4-10th Ave.-Sangandaan area in Caloocan where we used to live. I think it would be about a 5km round. Then before heading home, we would always drop by a lugawan to buy lugaw for our breakfast. Yummy!

Tatay & me at the 2004 28th Milo Marathon - Manila Eliminations

2004 GMA Kapuso Fun Run

We were also able to join a few fun runs around that time but since BGC was still non-existent then, all our runs were in Roxas Blvd. Suffice to say, his running soles has not touched ground anywhere but there. So I thought, why not invite him to join the PSE Bull Run since it falls exactly on his birthday and held in a venue that he has not tried running yet. I'm sure we'll have fun =)

Happy Birthday, Tay! More running years to come! Love you! Mwah!

2011 : A Personal Running Review

2012-01-02T16:39:00.000+08:00

I would remember 2011 as the year I started running again. I joined a total of 17 running events consisting of 5 5k, 10 10k and 2 16k events and spent P10,000 in registration fees alone. Yes, it was quite expensive but I still think it was money well spent simply because I enjoyed every minute of it. There is always an exhilarating feeling of accomplishment everytime I finish a run. Then follow it up with a good hearty breakfast with hubby and Miguel. Happiness!

I have ran the streets of Roxas Blvd., CCP, Macapagal Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, McKinley Hill and Commonwealth Avenue. Still dreaming of running the Skyway. Hopefully it will come true in 2012.

I met a lot of new people and made friends with runners like me. Some who were struggling with their 5ks when I met them are now half marathoners. Others who are more advance runners are now doing ultra-marathons. Their achievements inspire me to do better. I have been doing 5k events for the longest time and my goal early this year was to run a 10k before the year ends. But I outdid myself . Not only did I accomplish my 10k run, I even did two 16k runs. Winner!

My running has also rubbed off on my 5year old son and he enjoys running as much as I do. It has become one of our bonding moments. We even landed a photo slot in the Oct-Dec 2011 issue of the Runner's World Philippines.

Lastly, 2011 gave birth to this blogsite which helped to channel whatever writing skills I have to chronicle my runs. It started like a photo blog because that was all there is to it - photos. Then I learned how to write. Now, the photos became more alive as it is now accompanied by a written account of my personal experience on the event. Let's see how this site will evolve this year.

Looking forward to another running year. Hopefully I may be able to do a 21k before the end of the year. Maybe in time for the next Adidas KOTR or maybe even earlier. We'll see.....

Keep on running...... happy =)

QC International Marathon 2011

2011-12-04T16:49:00.002+08:00

December 4, 2011 - QC Circle - Commonwealth Ave.

I conquered Commonwealth Avenue, a.k.a. the highway of death.... on foot! Well okay, not the whole stretch but the first 5kms from the QC City Hall which was the route for the 10km event at this morning's QC International Marathon. It was a liberating feeling to run (and walk) in such a wide space!

This was actually an unexpected run. A product of idle time spent on Facebook on Bonifacio Day holiday. I was about to shut down my laptop to go to the grocery when a post from Kikay Runner came up on screen. It said, "Spreading some pre-Christmas cheer with FREE RACE KITS! Run the Quezon City International Marathon (any distance) for free!" Aha! Just what I was looking for, free runs! And it was so simple to join. All you had to do was fill out an online form with your basic details - Name, Address, E-mail, Contact Number, preferred event - press Submit and voila! If you were one of the first 100 to submit the form, you get a free race kit. And luckily for me, I made it.

Truth be told, I was not in my best form as I have been living like a couch potato for the past few months. It was just pure courage to get into my running shoes and attempt to do a 10k run without any training. As expected it was my worst 10k finish at 1hr 31mins (PR was at 1:20). Well, at least I was still able to finish the race and injury-free, too.

The Race

The race started on time. The 10km event gun start was at 5:45am.

The weather was great. It was actually gloomy but it was perfect running weather.

It was my first time to run on Commonwealth Avenue, one of the major roads in Metro Manila and known for its numerous road accidents due to reckless drivers. It was a nice change to see this highway this morning filled with runners instead of cars zooming past each other.

Near Feria Road, Commonwealth Ave.

Hydration stations were a bit letdown, though. Some were stationed in the far right side of the road when the runners were concentrated near the center island. Also, electrolyte drinks were quite few. All the hydration stations along the 10k route served water only except for the one near the 10k turn-around point. Short distance runners (10k, 5k) may do without it but I think those doing longer distances need it.

Near Ever Commonwealth

Maybe I am just so used to RunRio organized races where hydration stations were a mile long so seeing this 3-4 table set-up were a bit disappointing.

There were a number of freebies in the activity area located at the plaza of the QC City Hall but by the time I finished, it was starting to drizzle. I managed to get a red SMDC bag then I took off. I planned to take a quick breakfast at Tropical Hut-QC Circle but early finishers already beat me to it that when I got there, the place was already teeming with runners having their breakfast fill. I decided to go home instead but got lost around the circle and the rain had starting pouring. Hubby had to come over and fetch me. Oh well!

Overall rating: It was still a good run despite my terrible finish, which was entirely my fault! I gotta get my big ass out of the couch and start training if I want make that 21k Skyway run via the Condura Skyway Marathon in February 2012!

Adidas King of the Road 2011

2011-10-23T19:52:00.001+08:00

October 23, 2011 - Bonifacio Global City

The Adidas KOTR has been one of my dream runs for the longest time. When I started running back in 2003-2005, their shortest distance category was 10k. I could not join because I was still doing 5k at that time. Then things happened and I had to stop running for several years. When I resumed early this year, I swore I would join the KOTR no matter what.

The details for this year's race was released around April or May and to my disappointment, there was no 10k category! And the registration fees were so steep! So do I want a cheaper run and do a 5k? Or do I want to level up to 16.8k but have to shell out a whooping P1,300 for the registration fee? I didn't consider the 21k category even though it was cheaper than the 16.8k because I felt it was too soon for a half-mary. So after a month or so of thinking, I decided to challenge myself - physically and financially - and registered for the 16.8k category as early as June.

Around August, Adidas started a weekly KOTR Royalty Rewards contest where various giveaways were given to lucky registered KOTR participants. I joined the Week 5 Royalty Rewards which was exclusive to 16.8k participants.

My entry was:

and was lucky enough to be chosen as one of the ten winners of an original Adidas eyewear! So cool!

Race kits were distributed during the 2011 KOTR Kick-Off Assembly from Oct. 10-12, 11am to 11pm at the NBC Tent, Bonifacio Global City. My sister met up after office hours on the first day of the kick-off. It was a disaster! We did get our race kits but a series of unfortunate events surrounded it. One of which was we got lost going to the venue. We rode the BGC bus expecting that it will drop off passengers right in front of the NBC Tent. And so there we were waiting patiently for the driver to shout, "NBC Tent!" but it never came. The next thing we know we reached Market! Market, the last stop, and we had no choice but to go down. We decided to take a cab but the first two cab drivers were as clueless as we were. The third one was not that familiar with the area either but he had the brains to ask a traffic enforcer for directions.

Except for a little glitch in the race bib number where we didn't get our personalized race bib as it has not been delivered yet, we got our race kits in a breeze. Coach Rio was there and for a moment I just lost myself and called him, "Hi Rio." matched with a smile and a wave. He looked at us, smiled and replied, "Hi. How are you doing?". Oh, I love Coach Rio, he's so friendly.

From www.adidaskingoftheroad.com

D-Day was blessed with good sunny weather. It was a well organized run. The race started as scheduled, there were enough hydration stations serving water and Powerade, and the race route was perfect. My sister and I had a great time. By the last 3kms, we were starting to feel hungry and so we changed our running mantra to "Breakfast! Breakfast!". That kept us going despite the fact that we were really starting to feel tired and cramps in our legs.

Race Map

Proud me =)

I've done 16 runs this year and KOTR is one of the best. Kudos to RunRio for another successful event.

Run Rizal

2011-09-18T15:56:00.000+08:00

September 18, 2011 - Rizal Park, Luneta

My second missed run. This time I got sick with a really bad cough. Rarely do I have this kind of cough so I decided to sit this one out. It's a little frustrating because I was really looking forward to this event. It was supposed to be my 2nd 16k run and I wanted that medal. Well, there will be other races.

Tiktakbo 4

2011-09-04T14:54:00.001+08:00

September 4, 2011 - UP Academic Oval

After his 500m run in the Unilab Run United 2 event two weeks ago, Miguel told me, "Mommy, bili mo na uli ako ng 'number' para tatakbo na uli ako." Then I learned that a couple of my running friends who are also moms like myself were running with their kids in the UP-JPIA Tiktakbo 4 at the UP Academic Oval. I have not seen them for quite a while so I figured this would be a good reunion venue for us and at the same time we would be able to meet each others' kids. And so I registered Miguel in the 500m category - his 3rd official run.

Gun start was at 7am but we were there as early as 5am due to the organizer's SMS announcement the night before that the roads will be closed at 5am. Hence, all those bringing their cars should be there before 5am to be able to access the parking lots. It was a long wait but at least the weather cooperated. It was a bit foggy and moist in the early hours, probably due to the presence of so many trees and plants, but it didn't rain.

Waiting.....

Pre-run taho for energy!

Finally, 7am came and the little runners were off.....

500m dash category

Miguel was still full of energy despite the long wait. He was all smiles the whole time.

He was running so fast I think he finished the run in two minutes with no sweat! Methinks he's ready to level up. Hhhmmm........

Mommy & Miguel on the run

Every time I finish a run, Miguel would often ask me if I won. And I would always tell him, "Yes, I won. I won simply because I crossed the finish line." So now every time he crosses that finish line, I raise his hands and yell, "Winner!"

My winner claiming his "prizes"

Afterwards, my little runner had his post-run breakfast of McDonald's Big Breakfast with Rice, Egg and Sausage. Then we went home and he slept for the next 3 hours. =)

Yum!

Thank you UP-JPIA for this run. I hope we can join again next year.

Unilab Run United 2

2011-08-21T17:09:00.003+08:00

August 21, 2011 - Bonifacio Global City

Simply one of my best runs. Had a new PR for my 10k run and I got to run alongside my precious Miguel during his 500m dash. Top that!

The whole time I was running my 10k race, in my mind I kept telling Miguel, "Wait for mommy, Miguel. I'm almost there." So when my feet hit the Finish line, I didn't really stop running. I ran as fast as I could towards the starting area of the 500m dash race. Good thing, they haven't started yet and I found Miguel with his daddy at the back of the pack

The organizers divided the little runners into 4 waves:
1st wave - 9 to 12 year old girls
2nd wave - 9 to 12 year old boys
3rd wave - 5 to 8 year old girls
4th wave - 5 to 8 year old boys

They waited till all the kids per wave had reached the finish line before releasing another wave so it was quite a long wait. We were in the 4th wave so it was already about 7:40am when our gun start was fired. And then we're off.

Miguel was filled with so much energy that my 10k-tired-legs was having a hard time keeping up with him. Halfway, I told him that we can always slow down (walk if need be) if he's already tired. But he was still all smiles and told me, "No." So we ran through it all.

He got his first finisher's medal, a cute helmet shaped, orange-colored medal with the name Ceelin Ascorbic Acid for Kids (500m dash category sponsor) written on it. He wears it proudly =)

Thank you to our dear Lord for the wonderful weather this morning. It was a bit cloudy so it wasn't too hot. And it didn't rain which allowed the little kiddos run to their hearts delight.

Thank you for hubby Caloy for always supporting my running endeavors and sharing my desire to get our little boy involved in it, too.

Thank you to my sister Kath for being our official photographer. I appreciate it Sis. Mwah!

Thank you to Ate Lyn, Miguel's daily companion, for tagging along with us to witness one of Miguel's achievements.

And lastly, thank you to Run Rio for organizing such an awesome event!

Team Reebok Run

2011-08-06T09:32:00.003+08:00

August 6, 2011 - Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex, Pasay

Another wet run but not as wet as that of Milo last week. It drizzled midway into the run then it stopped for a bit only to start again during the last 500m of my 10k run.

I met Ms. Norma, a 47yo mom who said she just started running about year ago. But guess what? She runs faster than me and I'm 12 years her junior! Sheesh! Anyway, we were both a bit puzzled with the color coding (or lack thereof) of the race bibs used in the race. Normally, runners who ran the same distance are assigned the same colored race bibs. Not in this run. We wonder why, hmmm.......

The race route was okay. There were enough hydration stations which, apart from ordinary water, also served Pocari Sweat water. I must say, I am starting to love the sweet taste of this bottled ionic water. =)

Finish line

I clocked in at 1hr 19mins, a new PR! Yahoo!

Self-portrait

The problem with running alone is that nobody is there to take your picture. Yeah, I know it's a pretty lame excuse to have a running buddy but I love documenting my runs thru photographs. I almost asked a stranger if he could take my pic using my Canon point and shoot cam but I chickened out. Plus I keep remembering this Mr. Beans episode where Mr. Beans did just that and the guy took off with his cam. Hehe. Though in my case, I don't think that was bound to happen because the guy I was tempted to ask to take my pic was holding a much nicer camera, a high-end DSLR, so I don't think he'd be interested in an old and slightly damaged point and shoot. So there, the above pic is my attempt at self-portrait =)

35th Milo Marathon - Manila Eliminations

2011-07-31T10:42:00.003+08:00

July 31, 2011 - SM Mall of Asia

What can I say, Milo is very dear to me as I grew up drinking this chocolate drink. When we were kids, me and my sisters would drink it all up in then turn our glasses upside down as we shout, "All the way down!".

When I started running back in 2003-2005, most of my runs were with Milo. And then when I made a comeback last December 2010, after a few years of sedentary living, it was still Milo that I chose to be my comeback run.

I woke up at 4am this morning and it was raining outside. I was hoping it would stop when the race starts at 5:30am but it didn't let up.

So I wore my rain gear over my singlet to prevent me from getting soaked but 2kms into the run and I was already feeling warm. By the 3rd km, my very wet rain gear was already clinging to my skin and I was getting really hot so I took it off, wrapped it around my waist and just let the rain pour down on me.

At the starting line

It was my first time to run in the rain and it was fun. I finished 6mins behind my PR but it was okay. I had a great time and that's what really counts.

At the finish line, drenched from head to toe =)

My race results

Takbo.ph Runfest

2011-07-24T14:58:00.001+08:00

July 24, 2011 - Bonifacio Global City

I could not make up my mind whether to do another 10k or level up to a 16k run even as I was filling out the registration form in R.O.X. more than a month ago. I have completed most of the required details except the distance. I remember stalling by trying out the sample singlet sizes over and over again. I was itching to do a 16k but I kept asking myself if I was ready for it. Then this girl who was also registering that time checked the 16k box on her reg form and I thought, what the heck! I checked the 16k box in my reg form as well, submitted it, paid the fees and left with my claim stub.

Life-work balance was unfortunately unbalanced in the weeks leading up to the race. I didn't get to train well due to were major changes in the office that entailed a lot of after office work and the persistent rains. So my only training was a few weekend 10k runs at the UP Academic Oval when the weather permits. Good luck to me!

My personalized race bib

The race kicked off with a good start. The good Lord favored us with a good weather all throughout the race. It was a bit cloudy but it did not rain. Hydration stations were plenty with available cold water and Powerade.

The 16k race map

I don't really frequent the BGC area except on race days so I am not really familiar with the it. So when looking at race maps, I only look at where Start/Finish are and then I just follow the crowd and signages during the actual run. Needless to say, I did not know we will be running in the McKinley Hill area this morning which covered about the 12th to the14th kilometer stretch of the 16k route. The real challenge were the uphills. Some were really steep and left me out of breath.

A few steps away from the finish line

I clocked in at 2 hours and 22mins, 22 minutes more than my expected time of completion. And I blame it all on McKinley Hill! LOL!

A proud 16k finisher

Overall, it was a good run and I am now a proud 16k finisher. Yehey!

My first 16k medal

Kudos to Takbo.ph for organizing this run and giving me (and countless others) a good venue for our first 16k run. Happy 3rd anniversary and more power to you all!

SlimmeRUN

2011-07-10T07:57:00.002+08:00

July 10, 2011 - Bonifacio Global City

This run was doomed (for me and my sister, at least) from the very start. It was a series of unfortunate events.

The original SlimmeRUN poster

My sister and I are lifetime members of Slimmers World but I was more interested in doing the Manila International Marathon (MIM) scheduled last June 26, a day after SlimmerRun for two reasons. First, MIM registration was cheaper and second, the venue was nearer our place. I can commute by myself and need not bother Caloy to drive me all the way to BGC. But my sister/running buddy wanted to do SlimmeRun and I guess out of loyalty to this gym which had been a constant witness to my struggle to keep fit in the last 7 years, I agreed. And besides, the singlet was really nice =)

The singlet design. I got myself the pink one =)

I volunteered to register for both of us one very rainy Sunday in SW SM North EDSA. It was quite disappointing because apparently the personnel tasked to handle the registration will not be coming in that day and he/she did not leave the singlets (not even the samples) nor the official receipts. The staff present still processed our registration but issued us a temporary receipt only and we will have to go back for the singlets. It's such a bummer when you expect to receive what you ought to get in one trip and then find out it ain't gonna be the case. My sister had to make an unscheduled trip to SW SM Northe EDSA after office hours that week to be able to claim our singlets.

Then a few weeks before the race, my sister developed a skin allergy that was so bad her dermatologist told her that she cannot be exposed directly under the sun until after she's healed. So that means no running for her for a while and which also means I will be running alone in a race that I was not that interested in the first place. Hay....

Then Typhoon Falcon came a few days before the race and wreak havoc in the running community's schedule (see previous post). I think all outdoor sports activities scheduled that weekend were cancelled including SlimmeRun and Manila International Marathon. So I stayed home that Saturday, alternating watching TV, Facebooking and blogging while it was flooding like hell outside as Falcon kept pouring its wrath on us.

The series of unfortunate events finally ends when they rescheduled the run on July 10. After all the brouhaha, I will have to miss the run after all because we have a long overdue family trip that weekend. I gave away my race bib and D-tag to my cousin's officemate so it wouldn't go to a complete waste. I kept the singlet, though. I guess this run wasn't really meant to be. Tsk tsk.

My race bib and D-tag.

Update as of July 25, 2011

Ms. Unknown Runner, recipient of my SlimmeRUN race bib was a fast runner! I checked the results under my name and was surprised to see that she finished at 1hr and 3mins. It usually takes me 20mins more to complete a 10k run.

She was also the recipient of a very fat lootbag as posted by Run Adobo King in his blogsite.
http://runadoboking.wordpress.com/2011/07/11/rainy-run-fat-loot-bag-new-pr-slimmerun/

Yamaha Run for Heroes

2011-07-03T18:00:00.007+08:00

July 3, 2011 - Bonifacio Global City

First of all, I have to thank hubby's cousin Paolo and family for inviting us to join this run and sponsoring our registration. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

10k Race Map

A few meters away from the finish line.

(Photo courtesy of Jpeg Mendoza, Runners' Runner photographer)

My 6th 10k run in 4 months

I haven't been running for quite sometime either due to work or rain. My last 10k run was 2weeks ago then nada! As expected there was some struggle in finishing the run this morning. Good thing the weather cooperated coz it was a bit cloudy and it wasn't that hot. I still managed to finish at 1:24 mins, my average 10k run. So I guess it wasn't that bad.

Trying out one of the Yamaha motorcycles on display

Coach Rio checking the runners on his Yamaha bike

(Photo courtesy of Jpeg Mendoza, Runners' Runner photographer)

The Finisher's Bag

I almost did not get a finisher's bag because they ran out of stock. I got the goods that was supposed to be in the bag but not the bag itself. So there I was trying to carry a bottle of water, a Century Tuna Chili Corned Carne, a Unilab medkit and my finisher's certificate with my two hands. Good thing I did not leave the area immediately because after about 10mins, a bunch of bags were delivered. Miguel fell in love with the finisher's bag and asked me if he can use it in school. He said I have so many other bags anyway. How can I say no to that?

Family pic courtesy of Jpeg Mendoza, Runners' Runner photographer

My race results

Slack Season

2011-06-24T17:32:00.000+08:00

It has been a bad running month for me.... a cursed month. I only managed two10km runs in UP Academic Oval in the last month. I had to skip my after office gym runs due to piled-up work in the office plus the fact that my son's nanny went for a 2-week vacation so I had to go home early.

Then the rainy season kicked in. This week's Typhoon Faclon and has messed up the running community's schedule. And the only event I signed for this month (SlimmerRUN originally set at June 25) got rescheduled to July 10. So not only do I have zero runs this month, I would totally have to miss this run because the new date fell right smack in the middle of a long-scheduled family trip. Sad =(

Now, that is not the only run/sport event that was rescheduled to a future date, here are some of them:
1. Manila International Marathon - June 26 rescheduled to Sept. 18
2. Camp Run Series 2011 - June 25 rescheduled to Aug. 20
3. Immuvit Metavit Cycling Clinic - June 25 rescheduled to July 9
4. Milo-APEX Running School - June 25 long run postponed until further notice

Hopefully July will be a better month. I have three runs scheduled and I pray I get to run in all of them.