“The 160 Km Journey” By Candy Balaba

4 01 2012

The 160 Km Journey

by Candy Pastor- Balaba on Thursday, December 22, 2011 at 3:53pm
Last Saturday, the first 100-mile Trail Run in the country dubbed as TAKLANG DAMULAG 100mile ENDURANCE RUN, was staged. Taklang Damulag is a landmark inside the army division in Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.  In recent years, it was used as an impact area for live fire training for canons/artillery guns, and currently being used as a training ground for the Special Forces Regiment.

Race Director, Gen Jovie Narcise (Ret) a.k.a. The Bald Runner is the brains behind the Taklang Damulag 100mile Endurance Event. We learned that this would be the 1st 100mile Ultra Trail Run Event in Southeast Asia. Being a retired soldier, he is familiar with the place and thought that this would be a challenging route for ultra runners who seek for the toughest course. The route has a total ascent of 17,000 feet and a total descent of 18,000 feet. The course will take them to climb Taklang Damulag 4 times which would total 52kms, and twice on a 54 kms outer loop, hence given a total distance of 160kms

Even when the event was only on its planning stage early this year, hubby was already telling me that he wanted to try out this race. He has signed up for the 2012 BDM160 which will be on January, and thought that Taklang Damulag race will be a good training for his BDM 160 (Bataan Death March).  I didn’t think he would be too serious about it, because he has never been too keen on Trail runs.

Fast forward to Dec 17, my son JB and I found ourselves in Ft Magsaysay doing what is most expected from us… to be his support crew.

19 BRAVE WARRIORS

Ultra runs are usually the “no- frills” races. There are no grand pre and post race activities. No prizes, no loot bags.  Its usually just a small group of happy and fun hard core ultra runners that gather on this races. For this event, only 19 brave warriors signed up.  Two foreigners, a German and Malaysian guy who came all the way from Hongkong and China, respectively. The rest in the pack were Filipinos from all walks of life, a doctor, 2 lawyers, a grandson of an ex-president, a writer, entrepreneurs, professors and 2 military officers.  It’s a nice mix of interesting people who share the same passion for ultra running.

DNS AFTER COURSE ORIENTATION

The race briefing and carbo loading Friday night was time for runners to get to know more of each other. Everyone was happy, excited and maybe jittery too on the challenge that was coming their way, especially when The Bald Runner started to brief them on the route (it was not disclosed until Friday night). However, for some unknown reason, one runner backed off immediately after the briefing.  So 1 down, 18 to go.

  NO CREW

As I was unable to leave work that Friday, and Benedict needing to attend the course briefing and carbo loading that day, he had to go ahead without us. I packed all the necessary stuff he would need, gave him clear instructions on all that has been loaded, and promised that I would be there Saturday before noon.

0 KMS

I called up Benedict an hour before gun start. He said he was all geared up and just ready to go. I gently reminded him to take it slow and to just enjoy the race.

53 KMS

Arrived Fort Magsaysay with my older son JB just before noon, my father-in-law with my daughter Icee – who was on their way to Baguio, drove us there.   Shortly after arriving at Fernandez Hill where an aid station was set up, the first 2 runners – Andre Bloomberg and Jones Mortega arrived. Both had their lunch of noodles, boiled sweet potato, boiled eggs and some crackers. They also took time to reload their hydration packs. After more or less 35 mins of doing all these tasks, the runners were back on the trail to proceed with 2 loops in Taklang Damulag.

Benedict together with 4 other runners came 15 min after Andre and Jones left. He told us how he got lost with Malaysian guy – Seow Kung Ng in kilometer 9, which meant an added 6 kilometers to find their way back to the route. Benedict had his lunch, we reloaded his hydration packs, rested for a few minutes and then left again with the 4 runners.

The rest of the runners started arriving 30min after. They all took time to rest, eat, change clothes, tape their feet, prick those blisters (ouuuuch!!), someone even decided to take a short nap.  Everyone seemed to be holding on strong except for 1 runner who looked very wasted, he couldn’t even eat and just took sips from the recovery drinks offered to him.  After a short nap, he got up removed his race bib and raised the white flag.

TAKLANG DAMULAG LOOP

The Taklang Damulag loop has an elevation of 409 meters. To quote Bald Runner, “it is a short course and a very low mountain, but if you think of going up to this mountain for 4 times in a single event, then you have a very high mountain”.  The runners thought of it as an easy trek, and clearly no one expected that it would take them 3 hours to complete 1 loop which was only 13kms. It must have been a tough climb because after Andre’s first loop, I overheard him confirming from Bald Runner if they needed to do another loop and that he hoped he heard it wrong during the briefing to do 2 loops.

83KMS

The 83km- SOCOM AREA is also the Starting and Finish marks.  An aid station was set up so runners can have their dinner, reload their hydration packs, change clothes etc.

Jones came in a few minutes ahead of Andre, but he decided to quit after a bad fall that left him with a sprained ankle. As for Andre, he seemed to be holding on strong.  He left immediately after a quick dinner and after reloading his hydration packs.

Benedict came in 45min after Andre left, he said he got lost again on the 81km mark when he missed a turn which eventually led him to a longer route back to SOCOM area.

After having dinner, a quick wardrobe change (his rubber shoes was soaked, torn and beaten up), he was off to cover the next 83kms. It was already 8:30pm, dark, cold and drizzly. I began to worry now about how he would be able to get through the next 83kms alone. A pacer is already allowed for every runner from this point, unfortunately no one can pace him, I am not prepared to run an 80km distance, neither can our son JB. So, there was no other choice but for him to go alone and run in the DARK, COLD, DRIZZLY, CREEPY TRAIL.

The cut off time for the first loop (83kms) was 15hours. Only 7 runners were able to make it before the cut off. Bald Runner decided to allow those who didn’t make it to cutoff to continue if they still wanted to.

MORE DNF’s

As runners started to arrive at the 83 km mark, the DNF list also started to rise. A swollen knee, sprained ankle, bouts of chills and dizziness, or just totally wasted to continue, were the reasons that 6 runners decided to seal the nail in their DNF coffin.

So from the 83km mark, where the second loop will start, only 7 runners have decided to continue.

110 KMS

Our son JB was supposed to pace his Dad from this point, unfortunately Benedict wasn’t able to spot the car which was parked on the side of the road, so he decided to run and continue to go alone.  We also eventually left the place after staying there for 3 hours, we decided to move to the next aid station which was the Fernandez Hill.

A few kilometers before reaching Fernandez Hill, we finally spot him running in that long dark road. He was glad to see us as he was running out with energy drinks.  JB was all geared up and ready to go, so after reloading their hydration packs, the boys were off to cover the last 45kms.

130KMS 

I arrived Fernandez Hill around 5:40am after I got back from the early morning mass that I attended in the nearby church. I was surprised to see JB resting on a makeshift hammock. He told me that Benedict did not allow him anymore to trek Taklang Damulag as it was still too early and the path was dark.  Benedict left for his first loop to Taklang Damulag at 4:30AM. I got a bit worried, because it was raining and the trail was pitch- dark, wet and slippery.

After a few minutes, Andre arrived.  I was surprised he came in after Benedict. He told us that he got lost on his way to Fernandez hill, and wasted 2 hours finding his way back to the route. He didn’t look good. I could read disappointment in his face.  He didn’t talk much and just sat quite in one corner. After 30 minutes, I saw them pack their bags and asked me if I could give them a lift back to SOCOM. He has decided to quit too.  Paper, her girlfriend, and I tried to persuade him to continue. There was still enough time for him to cover the 2 loops.. He said that after getting lost on his way back to Fernandez Hill, and a bad fall that caused him much pain, he is now unable to think clearly and feels too wasted to continue.

I felt so bad that he had to quit after already covering 130kms. He was really a good and strong runner. Although, he said that this is his first 100 miler, he has also done quite a number of TNF ultra runs around the globe. I wonder what went wrong for him to decide to DNF.

Eventually, I learned that 4 more runners have DNF’ed on the 110km mark, including Malaysian guy- Seow Kung. Seow Kung  is an equally seasoned ULTRA RUNNER, having  done Les Sable in Africa, Amazon Ultra Run, Comrades Marathon. 

145KMS – 4TH LOOP TAKLANG DAMULAG

Benedict was back in Fernandez Hill after 3 hours of trekking Taklang Damulag . He looked fine and was not complaining of anything other than hunger. He was surprised to know that Andre has already quit the race. As of 9AM, we had confirmation that only 5 runners continue to be on the race, with Benedict leading the pack.

Cut off time is 32hours. It was 9AM and Benedict had 4 more hours to cover the last 18kms.   A whole loop to Taklang Damulag is 13kms plus 5 kms to the Finish Line. I was completely in awe with his grit and sheer determination to move on and continue. Everyone was telling him that he could be the only one to finish the race within the cut off time. With all that being said to him, he was all the more determined to GO FOR THE WIN!!!

Benedict also finally allowed JB to pace him on his last loop to Taklang Damulag.  JB acted like a giddy 7 year old who immediately jump up to join his Dad again.

ONTO THE FINISH LINE 

I was back at SOCOM- Finish Line to wait for the 2 boys. I was surprised to see that the runners who DNF’ed were eagerly waiting for any finisher to make it before cut off time. It was almost 12noon, cut off was just an hour away.   The waiting seemed endless, I was getting so worried. Will the boys make it?

Then at about 12:05, 2 guys were seen moving towards the finish line. Everyone started jumping, screaming, clapping and cheering. Finally someone is going to make it before the cut off time.  It was raining outside yet everyone got up, forgot about all the pain in their legs, ran outside and started to cheer on Benedict and JB who was coming towards the finish line. Everyone was asking who he was running along with, I proudly told them, he was our 15yr old son. That gave them even more reason to cheer. My heart melted and tears welled up in my eyes at the sight of our son- JB pacing his Dad onto his glorious triumph. THIS IS ONE MEMORABLE MOMENT THAT WILL FOREVER BE IMPRINTED ON MY MIND’S EYE AND ETCHED ON MY MIND’S HEART. 

 

Benedict raised his tired arms like a “V”.  JB slowed down a bit to let his Papa  cross the finish line alone. But even before Benedict could cross the finish line, he was swarmed by the other runners, gave him high fives, shook his hand and embraced him. IT WAS SUCH AN AWESOME SIGHT!! I WAS ALL BEAMING AND FILLED WITH SO MUCH PRIDE!!!

After 31 hours 11 minutes and 26 seconds …HE MADE IT!!!

As of this writing, Dick and I continue to share stories about last weekend. He is overwhelmed and humbled by all the congratulatory messages he receives everyday, and all the nice words being posted on his FB.

The very daunting feat has earned him blisters, sore muscles, chafed seams, 10 dead toenails, that will last for days, but it has also tattoed his pride with a memory of a great finish that will last him forever.

YOU DID IT POP!!  YOU GOT IT!!!  YOU FINALLY NAILED THAT SILVER BUCKLE!!!

PS:  Benedict was the lone finisher who made it before cut off, making him the only one to earn the Silver Buckle for the 1st 100miler Endurance Event in the country. 4 other runners were able to cross the finish line  with a time of 41hrs. The Taklang Damulag 100-Mile Trail Endurance Run was organized by the Philippine Association of Ultrarunners and was participated in by local and international ultrarunners and is officially considered as the first and only 100-Mile Trail Endurance Run in Southeast Asia.


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Update: TD 100 & Half-Marathon

11 12 2011

There will be a Final Briefing and CLP on or about 5:30 PM of December 16, 2011 at the Headquarters Special Operations Command (SOCOM) in Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City for all the participants in the 1st Taklang Damulag 100-Mile Endurance Run. The event will have its Gunstart the following day at 5:00 AM (December 17, 2011).

The 1st Taklang Damulag Half-Marathon will have its Gun Start at 5:00 AM of December 18, 2011 infront of the Headquarters Special Operations Command (SOCOM). On Site Registration will be allowed one hour before the Gun Start and a briefing will follow on the route and conduct of the race. The registration fee is One Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (P 1,500).

The following will be the mandatory kits to be carried by the participants of the TD 100-Mile Endurance Run:

1. First Aid Kit

2. Headlight and/or Hand-held Flashlight

3. Hydration System that would last up to 20 kilometers.

4. Cell Phone

5. Light Water-proof Jacket (In case of inclement weather/rains)

6. “Wet Wipes”

As for the TD Half-Marathon runners, they have to carry a hydration system, cellphone, and First Aid Kit.

These kits will be inspected during the Final Briefing (for the TD 100 runners) and On Site Registration (for the TD Half-Marathon runners).

Drop Bags will be allowed in Only Two Aid Stations ( at the Starting Area and at the Fernandez Hill). Make sure to mark your respective drop bags with your name and race number and they will be collected before the Gun Start.

Good luck! See you in Fort Magsaysay!


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Taklang Damulag 100-Mile Trail Endurance Run

1 12 2011

It is about time that our local ultrarunners should and may be able to experience what it is like to run a 100-mile trail endurance run. This idea came about during the first quarter of this year as I tried my best to come up with a venue where familiarity and security are the most important factors to be considered. Since Fort Magsaysay of the Philippine Army is the most accessible and visitor-friendly among the military camps outside Metro Manila and for having been stationed and assigned to this camp in my past military carreer, the camp is the best choice for such running event.

Planning had been done since July of this year and the course had been plotted and I had personally ran through the route. Some of the detailed technical data/map are yet to be published in electronic and printed form but I will assure all the participants that the course will be well-marked and guides/marshals will be stationed in critical areas where runners might be lost and might choose or end up in another trail/route.

There will be ample Aid Stations along the route which will be serving hydration needs and solid and hot foods to everybody. However, each runner must be able to bring with them their hydration system during the run. There are portions of the route where sari-sari/convenience stores are located in the centers of populated areas and runners must be able to bring with them some cash. Some portions of the route are accessible to support vehicles, however, there is NO need to bring support vehicle during the race. I will not be strict on the use of support vehicle as long as they will not “shadow” or “pace” with the runner or else the runner will be disqualified. Every runner should be able take advantage of the food and services of the Aid Stations.

Since this is a “pilot event” and the “first” of its kind in the country, we have prepared finisher’s swags (belt buckle, individual medallion, individual trophy, and Finisher’s Shirt) to only FORTY (40) FINISHERS within the cut-off time of 32 HOURS. If you have officially finished a 50-mile or 100K trail/road race, you are qualified to join this race.

FINAL BUCKLE wil have a SILVER CARABAO HEAD With the GOLD SUN

For the local runners, the registration fee is Six Thousand Pesos (P 6,000). For the foreign runners, the registration fee is One Hundred Fifty US Dollars ( $150). Payments can be made to the A Running Circle Store Manila (ARC); Landbank Account Number 1686-0795-85 in the name of Jovenal Narcise; or during the Briefing Event on December 16, 2011 in Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City. Updates on the Briefing Event will be announced in this blog or at my Facebook Event Wall. Registration starts TODAY. If you have further inquiries, you can send your e-mail at jovie75@hotmail.com or post a message on my Facebook Wall.

The course is an EASY Course which consists of an 80-Kilometer Loop where the runners would run twice. The 80K Loop goes around the periphery of Fort Magsaysay’s Cantonment Area and 50K of that loop will cover 2 loops of up and down the Taklang Damulag and Fernandez Hills. To summarize, runners would run 2 loops of the 80-K Loop and 4 loops of the Taklang Damulag-Fernandez Hills Complex. The course has an estimated total ascent of 17,000+ feet and total descent of 18,000+feet.

The Race starts on or about 5:00 AM (or earlier) of December 17, 2011 infront of the Special Operations Command Headquarters in Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City. The race has a cut-off time of 32 Hours. If a runner can not complete ONE Loop (80K) within 15 Hours, he/she will be declared DNF. PACER (one at a time) is allowed to join the runner on his/her SECOND Loop up to the FINISH Only.

For the Half-Marathon Event, the Registration Fee is One Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (P 1,500). Details of registration and payment of fees are the same with the 100-Mile event.

To refresh the participants, the following were the posts I have published in relation with the planning of the event:

http://baldrunner.com/2011/07/31/record-time-5237-minutes/

http://baldrunner.com/2011/09/08/8-hour-run-td-100-route/

If you finish this running event, you don’t only earn a very distinct “bragging rights” among Pinoy Ultrarunners but also have the rights and privelege to be a PART in the History of Running In The Country.

Good luck and Run Happy!


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8-Hour Run @ TD 100 Route

8 09 2011

On the last week of July, I went to Fort Magsaysay and make a recon on the trail route surrounding the Taklang Damulag Mountain. I mentioned in one of my previous posts about my trek towards the peak of the said mountain where I timed 52:37 minutes to reach its peak from Fernandez Hill, a distance of 2.7 kilometers. The trek to the peak was only a part of the 25-kilometer distance that I run & walked/hiked during that day and the trail loop towards the mountain peak from Fernandez Hill and around as it covers a distance of 13 kilometers. It took us 5+ hours to cover the distance (25K) as most of were hiking and brisk walking. If we tried to jog and run the flat portions of the route, we could have made it in 3+ hours. This part of the Taklang Damulag 100-mile run consists of the “inner loop” of the course.

The following were the pictures taken during my recon run at the “inner loop” on the last week of July:

Descending From The Peak Of Mt Taklang Damulag

Lots of Single-Track Trail Around Mt Taklang Damulag

Muddy & Slippery Trail

Lots of Stream Crossings!

More Muddy Trail

....and Wider Streams To Cross!!

Last Thursday afternoon, together with one of my elite athletes, Jack Espana, I went to Fort Magsaysay and slept overnight in one of the transient facilities. We were already in bed at 9:30 PM and woke up at 4:30 AM of Friday. At 5:30 AM, we started our run from the Starting Area of the Race by hiking the first 2 kilometers as our warm-up. The purpose of the run is to recon the first 40K distance of the route which is considered as the “outer loop” of the TD 100 route. The trail route is located outside the cantonment area of Fort Magsaysay passing through Barangays Pag-asa, Dona Josefa, Bacao, Langka 1 & 2, Palale, Cattle Stock Farm, and Nazareth.

@ Km #6 in Barangay Dona Josefa

First of So Many Spillways To Cross

Am I Floating Above the Water?

Detailed "Looks" of the Trail Route

One of the Paths Towards The Peak of a Mountain

One of The River Crossings

Jack Was Infront Of Me Trying To Look For A Trail

Nice REMINDER Along The Route!

Typical Condition of the Route @ Cattle Stock Farm (Km #30)

Another Nice Reminder Along The Cattle Stock Farm

Watchout For This AlongThe Route!!! It's The Real "Taklang Damulag"!!!

Practically, we left on the northern side of the camp and run through the trails on the eastern side of the camp and then re-entered the camp from the south direction. The route traverses through rolling hills and mountains with maximum elevation of 375 meters with lots of stream crossings through spillways and river crossings. What made the run very relaxing was the scenery, clean air, overcast sky, rain & showers on mid-day, and some conversations with the residents along the route.

We had two “pit stops” along the route. These “pit stops” are sari-sari stores that sell anything from assorted bread & chips to drinks. We took some time to eat solid foods on these stores and were able to talk to the owners. The people were surprised as they always asked us where are our bicycles as we tell them where we came from. Bicycles? What bicycles are they talking about? They told us that a group of cyclists on mountain bikes would usually pass along the said route. Well, we told them that we were running, jogging and walking along the said route. It appeared that we were the first ones whom they see (as outsiders/visitors) to be running & hiking the said route.

Our "Pit Stop" @ Barangay Palale. Km #26

The People Does Not Know "Mami", They Call It "Noodles"

Our "Brunch" For The Day To Include Bread/Pandesal

We finished our recon run before 3:00 PM as we reached our Starting Area. After a quick shower, we were out of Fort Magsaysay as we headed towards Eva’s Restaurant near the boundary of Zaragoza, Nueva Ecija and La Paz, Tarlac where the best and very hot Bulalo is being served.

Getting back from the result of our recon run on the TD 100 route. So far, I have run through a distance of 65 kilometers from the 80K-loop of the trail route with an aggregate total time of 13+ hours. And since the remaining 15K route is on an easy rolling and flat terrain, it could be covered in another 2.5 hours. Adding these times would total to 15-16 hours to cover one loop of the course! However, my recon runs had averaged a pace of 12-15 minutes per kilometer which was basically a “hiking” pace! So, from these data, an average ultra runner could finish one loop in less than 15 hours.

The actual measurement of the course is done! The next thing to do is to finalize the administrative and operational needs for the race!

Guys, I only need 25 “brave and hardcore” runners for this another historic FIRST 100-mile trail endurance running event in the country. Let us help one another in putting our country in the world’s map of ultra trail running.


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Record Time: 52:37 Minutes

31 07 2011

This was the elapsed time it took me to reach the peak of Mt Taklang Damulag as I started from the Fernandez Hill of the Special Forces Regiment’s Camp and Training Area inside Fort Magsaysay. The place is also popularly known as “Molave Complex”.

The plan was to recon and hike a segment of the 100-mile endurance run route that includes the Fernandez Hill-Taklang Damulag- Cordero Dam-Special Forces Training Area and back to Fernandez Hill. This a trail loop which has a distance of 13 kilometers. However, at the back of my mind, I was thinking of coming up with a first attempt with a record time for a trek to the famous Mt Taklang Damulag’s peak with the Fernandez Hill as the starting area.

Fernandez Hill Marker Serves As My Starting Line/Area

Mt Taklang Damulag On The Background

I was accompanied by Lt Col Dennis Pacis, the Chief Operations Officer of the 7th Infantry Division who is a triathlete and an ultrarunner; Captain Jason Que who is the Chief of the Training Department of the Special Forces School; Jack, a member of the Elite Team Bald Runner; two NCOs of the Special Forces who are both runners in the PA Battalion Run Team where I was the Commander; and nine (9) soldiers who are presently on training to become members of the Special Forces Regiment. I personally named this group as the “Ultra Recon Team Six” (based from the famous and popular US Navy Seal’s Team Six).

We started at 10:45 AM with overcast sky from the Fernandez Hill in line formation with at least 6 soldiers in front of me. As I was strictly following my HR training to include this trek, I maintained an HR of 135 about 100 meters from the start with LtCol Pacis and Capt Que behind me. However, our hiking started to increase its pace as we started to climb the mountain.

The trail leading to the peak of the mountain was a combination of crossing at least 3 streams where our feet/shoes have to thread on the water current; sticky, slippery and muddy soil; rocks; and single-track trail covered with grasses. My TNF trail shoes were no match to the combat boots of the soldiers in crossing the streams and walking along sticky and slippery mud along the route. My advantage to these soldiers was that my shoes were lighter than their combat boots.

As we started to climb the mountain, I started to think of coming up with a record time for a Military General, retired at that, to ever climb and reach the peak of the said mountain. Although I am not sure if the past Commanders of the Special Forces and Special Operations Command had undergone this record timing process, I thought that I might as well start coming up with a “trivia” as to who and what is the fastest time for a General (retired or active) to reach the peak of Mt Taklang Damulag.

In less than 400 meters from the start line, my HR started to spike to 145 bpm from my training max of 135 as a result of my excitement to reach the peak with a record time. And my HR steadily increased as I got higher towards the peak of the mountain.

I was wearing my GF 305 on my left wrist (to measure the distance and elevation) and my TIMEX HR Watch on my right wrist. From time to time as I moved upwards, I had to glance of these two watches for the distance covered and my prevailing HR.

From 145 bpm, my HR spiked to 165 and later to a maximum of 183 bpm when I reached the 2.4K mark on the uphill climb to the mountain. I decided to take a rest/breather for about 2 minutes just to be able to adjust to my breathing and to be able to look around on the lower plains of Nueva Ecija. I felt like I was going on a “blackout” or pass out as I started to feel dazed and exhausted but the scenery and the beauty below made me happy and satisfied. A lot of “deep breathing” repetitions made me recover and kept on glancing my HR watch as my bpm was decreasing. As soon as my HR watch reached and indicated 155 bpm, I continued my hike on the last 400 meters to the peak of the said mountain.

I simply tapped the white cross at the peak of the mountain with my right palm to signify that I reached and conquered the very peak of the mountain. My time was 52:37 minutes and I asked Capt Que to make a record/journal of it as part of the trivia of the Special Forces Regiment.

BR With the Special Forces' "Ultra Recon Team Six" On Top of Mt Taklang Damulag

The two Special Forces NCOs were surprised and gave me two “thumbs-up” for being the fastest hiker (whether in my age category or being a General of the Philippine Army, retired or active) to reach the peak. I just smiled to them while I was gasping for air! I wanted to tell them that I was not yet running and it was all hiking. In due time, I will try to run it and improve my time on my next trek to the mountain.

Resting and Looking Around the Scenery On Top of Mt Taklang Damulag

As per gathered by my GF 305, the highest peak has an elevation of 409 meters with a route distance of 2.7 kilometers from Fernandez Hill. It is a short course and a very low mountain but if you think of going up to this mountain for four times in a single event, then you have a very high mountain!

Now, I am thinking of a short trail running event which is dubbed as “Mt Taklang Damulag 5.4K Challenge” !


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Result: PAU Fort Magsaysay 60K Ultra Run

18 07 2011

The following is the Official Result of the PAU Fort Magsaysay 60K Ultra Road Race from Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City to Dingalan, Aurora on July 16, 2011.

Rank Name Time Points
1 Dick Balaba 6:25:46 60
2 Junrox Roque Jr 6:32:11 59.08
3 Gene Olvis 6:36:02 58.45
4 Alfred De Los Reyes 7:04:58 54.49
5 Jose Duenas 7:08:47 54.03
6 Tina Narvaez (F) 7:16:51 53
7 Bert Camangonan 7:21:25 52.43
8 Chito Vegim 7:37:28 50.6
9 Deo Jaravata 7:41:59 50.1
10 Salvador Castilla Jr 7:47:33 49.52
11 Randy Rubio 7:51:44 49.08
12 Magno Rafael Gabotero 7:52:36 49.02
13 Jerome Bautista 7:54:18 48.81
14 Graciano Santos Jr 7:54:37 48.77
15 Simon Favel Miranda 7:55:01 48.73
16 Jonel Mendoza 7:59:37 48.26
17 Keshia Fule (F) 8:02:57 47.92
18 Elmer Tolete 8:07:11 47.51
19 Paolo Osmena 8:07:39 47.46
20 Frederick Quitiquit 8:13:33 46.9
21 Carlos De Los Santos 8:21:04 46.19
22 Ronnel Go 8:23:40 45.96
23 Junn Besana 8:27:49 45.58
24 Allan Martos 8:37:13 44.75
25 Roberto De Los Santos 8:37:25 44.74
26 Victor Verry 8:41:43 44.37
27 Gil Brazil 8:42:17 44.32
28 Allen Gaspar 8:52:30 43.47
29 Christian Oting 8:52:50 43.44
30 Jose Cando 8:56:50 43.12
31 Jael Wenceslao 8:56:52 43.1
32 Emerson Sto. Domingo 9:03:21 42.6
33 Kharl Ocampo 9:05:44 42.41
34 Ceasar Aquino 9:05:57 42.4
35 Bong Bernadez 9:08:11 42.22
36 Kokoy Delmo 9:08:12 42.21
37 Ferdie Cabiling 9:10:07 42.07
38 David Buban 9:15:25 41.68
39 Rodel Montejo 9:15:34 41.66
40 Jose Lorenzo Mina 9:15:40 41.65
41 Wilfredo Parcon 9:16:00 41.63
42 Jerome Aragones 9:16:17 41.61
43 Arnel Vizmonte 9:16:47 41.57
44 Nuestro Arman Garcia 9:17:54 41.49
45 Camilo Paran Jr 9:18:10 41.47
46 Julius Savella 9:19:32 41.37
47 Chaps Grande 9:24:31 41
48 Mel Severino 9:25:27 40.93
49 Chito Carrion 9:26:01 40.89
50 Emilio Hulipas 9:28:00 40.75
51 Edward Villareal 9:29:54 40.61
52 Irene Ong (F) 9:30:08 40.6
53 Mac Millan 9:31:26 40.51
54 Vans Camano 9:32:13 40.45
55 Ricardo Cabusao Jr 9:33:59 40.33
56 George Dolores 9:34:06 40.32
57 Anthony Alindada 9:35:37 40.21
58 Junar Layug 9:36:41 40.14
59 Camilo Kagaoan Jr 9:38:48 39.99
60 Fernando Sy Jr 9:38:48 39.99
61 Steve Paul Dumlao 9:40:33 39.87
62 Julius Cervantes 9:43:54 39.64
63 Francis Frio 9:52:17 39.08
64 Ronel Gallardo 10:01:01 38.54
65 June Villamor 10:01:04 38.52
66 Randy Racho 10:01:05 38.51
67 Alladin Cordero 10:01:32 38.5
68 Nelson Anthony Malillim 10:01:39 38.48
69 Cesar Abarientos 10:02:35 38.41
70 Rod Apolinario 10:03:29 38.35
71 Gaphet Grande 10:05:42 38.21
72 Art Virata 10:06:46 38.15
73 Ofelia Lorete (F) 10:07:45 38.1
74 Jake Pescador 10:08:27 38.04
75 Bee Yen Soberano 10:10:08 37.94
76 Bart Torralba 10:13:09 37.75
77 Vic Topacio 10:13:18 37.74
78 Alex Jonesy Jones 10:13:19 37.74
79 Michael Joseph Ko 10:15:37 37.6
80 Ronald Illana 10:17:35 37.48
81 Marvin Pangan 10:22:41 37.17
82 Mar Marilag 10:27:08 36.91
83 Ed Escalante 10:33:21 36.55
84 Wesley Orana 10:37:36 36.3
85 Janus Ajusto 10:39:11 36.21
86 Carmeli Ortega (F) 10:40:50 36.12
87 Erlinda Pamesa 10:42:40 36.02
88 Larry Daliwag 10:42:42 36.01
89 Nap Ocampo Jr 10:42:45 36
90 Ronel Espinoza 10:43:12 35.98
91 Harold Lorete 10:43:47 35.95
92 Joseph Ligot 10:44:01 35.94
93 Sherwin Botabara 10:46:02 35.83
94 Andy Joshua Oting 10:49:05 35.66
95 Jerome Jamili 10:51:28 35.53
96 Marco Christopher Montaos 10:52:55 35.45
97 Jonly Sabaricos 10:53:50 35.4
98 Sammy Delena 10:54:10 35.38
99 Emil Perez 10:56:34 35.25
100 Carlo Serrano 10:56:38 35.24
101 Eric Caramay 10:56:55 35.23
Finishers After Cut-Off Time
102 Vince Rodriguez 11:21:16
103 Garry Garcia 11:24:48
104 John Paul Bautista 11:25:53
105 Zaldy Santillan 11:43:14
106 Mark David Aquino 12:53:10
107 Ellen Castillo (F) 12:55:46
108 Brandy Simbe 13:22:18
109 Dindo Magallanes 14:19:30

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Update: PAU Fort Magsaysay 60K Run

22 06 2011

Update: PAU Fort Magsaysay 60K Run (July 16, 2011)

This is the 2nd PAU Race for the year (2011) and it will start at the 7th Infantry Division Headquarters of the Philippine Army inside Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City (Nueva Ecija) at 5:00 AM of July 16, 2011. The Assembly Time will be at 4:00 AM and Race Bibs will be distributed to the registered runners during this period before finally starting race.

There are 223 applicants to this race as listed in the PAU Races’ site at http://pauraces.blogspot.com and acceptance of application had been CLOSED since the last week of May 2011. We are expecting 223 runners who will finally register to run the said race. If ever there are slots to be vacated (from the 223 slots) due to non-registration of applicants, such slots could be filled-up with late registrants before the start of the race.

Registration and payment of registration fee can be done at the A Runner’s Circle Store located at Aloha Hotel, Roxas Boulevard, Manila or simply deposit the registration fee of Nine Hundred Pesos Only (P 900.00) to LANDBANK Savings Account # 1686-0795-85 and keep the deposit receipt for confirmation of your payment. Bring your deposit slip and present it to our staff to claim your Race Bib on Race Day. Deadline of Registration/Payment of Registration Fee is July 13, 2011 or before the Closing Time of the ARC Store on the said date.

There will be no late registration on Race Day (if all the 223 applicants had registered and paid their registration fees).

Starting Area of the 60K Run (7th ID Headquarters)

Rules and Regulations of the Race:

1. The race will start on or before 5:00 AM of July 16, 2011.

2. There will be No Aid Stations along the route. Runners are “self-supported” in this race. Runners may bring their respective support vehicle and/or support crew. Support vehicles should always “leap-frog” their runner/s. Support Vehicle shadowing their runner/s is strictly not allowed. Reports of such incident will be a ground for disqualification from the race. Support Vehicle must always park on the right shoulder of the road.

3. Pacers are not allowed in this race. Support crew will be there to simply hand in the needs of the runner-participant or help/assist on the needs of the runner. Support crew are not “mules” for the runner-participant.

4. Runners without any support vehicle can run the race on “self-support” and they are allowed to ask assistance from other runners. The route has a lot of local convenience stores and eateries but they have to pay for their own needs.

5. Runners are advised to run on the left side of the road, however, they could also have the option to run on the right side. Stay safe and be observant on your surroundings while running.

6. There will be no restrictions on the use of earphones and “wires” attached to the runner. However, the volume of such earphones should be set on a lower tone for the runner to still hear what is happening to his/her surroundings.

7. Strictly, “bandits” will not be allowed in this race.

8. Race Bib should be displayed in front of the runner’s shirt or shorts. Runners who are using race belts must be always aware that their race bib is always on the front. There will be “secret marshals” who will be listing your number on different locations along the route.

9. If possible, runners must be on “single-file” or two runners abreast, if there is no incoming traffic on the road. Personal discretion and judgement are needed on how a group of runners run along the route. Safety is the foremost consideration on this race.

10. Cut-off time for the 60K Run is 9 hours. The Official Finishers of this race should be able to cross the Finish Line on or before 2:00 PM of the same day.Finish Line will be at the View Deck at Dingalan, Aurora, specifically at the vicinity of the GINA’s Restaurant & Resort.

11. Official Finishers will receive Finisher’s Medal, Finisher’s T-Shirt, and Finisher’s Certificate.

Finish Line Area in Dingalan, Aurora (GINA's Place & Resort)

Finish Line Area @ GINA's Place & Resort In Dingalan, Aurora

12. There will be Medical Team/s and Ambulance/s deployed along the route. However, runners must bring with them basic First Aid Kit as a “stop-gap” measure on the brief period before the arrival of the Medical Team.

13. Do not look for portalets along the route! There is a vast space of vegetated areas and tracts of land along the route and they need “fertilizer”. Make sure you are covered or hidden by the terrain or trees during these “spraying” and “depositing” moments.

14. In case of emergency and other incident reports to be relayed to the Race Director, calls and/or text messages shall be sent to this number—0918-910-0825. Sender must be able to identify himself/herself if message is sent through SMS.

15. The integrity of the race shall be maintained. Reports of cheating will be investigated immediately and runner/s involved shall be disqualified from the race and future races of the Bald Runner’s Events Management and PAU Races. Runners are deputized to report acts of cheating and/or violation of the race’s rules and regulations.

16. If you are new in ultra marathon and this is your first ultra road race, be prepared to submit a copy of a Medical Certificate or a Doctor’s Certificate stating therein that you are capable of participating in any endurance sports like long distance running and that you don’t have any heart-related ailments. Such Certificate shall be submitted to our Staff at the Starting Area.

17. It is the personal responsibility of each runner to arrange for his/her trip/travel arrangement or itinerary to the venue of the activity and lodging accommodation before and after the race.

Last reminder: We always maintain our signature/reputation of starting the race ON or BEFORE the scheduled start time. Arrive at the Race Venue ahead of time.

“NO WHINING IN ULTRA RACES”…GOOD LUCK AND HAVE FUN!!!!


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Categories : Insights, Jogging, Military, Pictures, Places to Run, Races, Running, Sports Program, Travel, Ultramarathon

“West To East”: 6th Day/Fort Magsaysay & Mountain Pass

25 03 2011

10:30 AM March 20, 2011/Santa Rosa to Laur, Nueva Ecija

The last time that I passed along the Santa Rosa to Fort Magsayay Road was in the mid-part of 2004 when I was a Brigade Commander of the 702nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division with my Headquarters located in Barangay Calaanan, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija. The road was not yet paved/asphalted as most of it was a narrow dirt road. This road is the most direct route to Fort Magsaysay from the Maharlika Highway in Santa Rosa and I take this route as a short cut to avoid the traffic of vehicles in Cabanatuan City. The road has a distance of 20 kilometers where both sides are open with rice fields and dry lands which were planted with mango trees as you approach to the military reservation of Fort Magsaysay.

Looking Forward To The East

Fort Magsaysay is the biggest military camp in the country which consists of hundreds of thousands of hectares from the eastern portions of Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija up to the seashore of the Pacific Ocean. The area is so vast that the military could not guard the reservation from informal settlers; kaingin farmers; and other kinds of squatters. Even if various types of military training are being conducted in these areas ranging from artillery fires, tank manuevers and combat fires, military exercises with other allied armed forces in Asia and the USA, and other kinds of special operations, those unscrupulous illegal settlers are still there to claim a portion of the military reservation. It is sad that the military reservation is now shrinking.

I am Starting To Sweat Few Kms From Start

When I was the Camp Commander of Camp Aguinaldo, I had a chance to play a round of golf with the Speaker of the House of the Representatives then and he asked me what is my solution for the unabated military adventurism of young officers to topple whoever is in power in the government. I told him that my idea is not a solution but it is a firm message that AFP Officers and Soldiers who are involved in this kind of military adventurism should be punished severely. I told the politician that it is about time to establish a State Penitentiary (outside Metro Manila) with a Military Prison Facility at the middle part of the Fort Magsaysay Reservation Area! And let these prisoners develop the area as homestead where they can produce and cultivate food and herd some domesticated animals and be away and out of reach from the media. The politician liked my idea and it ended there.

The Color of my Shirt is Becoming Darker

I expected that today’s run will be the most challenging stage due to the hotter temperature of Nueva Ecija and the looming hills/mountains that I am going to traverse as I progress towards my destination. I was informed by some of the officers assigned in Fort Magsaysay that there is already a short cut route from Fort Magsaysay that goes all the way to Laur, Nueva Ecija that traverses the mountains east of Fort Magsaysay. And the road has an estimated distance of 64 kilometers from Fort Magsaysay to the town of Dingalan, Aurora.

Ahhh...Brgy Liwayway, The Heat, The Clouds and The Mountains

The flat, wide and hot road from Santa Rosa to Fort Magsaysay was already a challenge as I started my run at 10:30 AM. From where I started, I estimated that I still have at least 81 Kilometers to my destination and covering one-half of the distance was already enough for my day’s run. I started my run from where I stopped the previous night. I was still using the Adidas Tech Fit Compression Shorts and with my Gray NIKE Compression Shirt. I decided not to use my arm sleeves as I would like to see my perspiration simply dry up from my skin while I was running. I prepared for my Ice Bandana to cool off my neck and nape and my Buff to cover my face. The ritual for hydration was still there and my strategy for my pacing but every time that I have my pit stop, I have to pour cold water on my head making my running cap wet/damp while running. This was the first time that I did such ritual of pouring cold water on my head and nape every time I take a sip of water from my support vehicle. Since I did not bring sponge, this ritual gave me a refresh feeling every two kilometers.

Nice Mango Orchard On My Left & Still Looking Good

 The pain on my knee/left quads was tolerable and I have to make some adjustments with my footwork. The ASICS Gel- LyteRacer DS was very nice and comfortable to my feet as they are light with the much-needed cushion. I decided to use this shoe throughout the run after my bad experience with my Adidas Adizero Mana on my 4th day leg.

Finally Entering the Fort Magsaysay Territory

The Fort's Cantonment Area Is Still Far From This Place

As I got nearer to the boundary of the Fort Magsaysay reservation, the road started to ascend but I knew it was runable but I opted to conserve my strength by brisk walking through the uphills and resume running on the downhill parts. As I reached the intersection of the road that goes to the Gate 1 (Main Gate) of Fort Magsaysay, trucks that carry US Armed Forces mobility assets and other equipment were still passing me and saw them entering the premises of the camp. I concluded that with the volume and number of trucks that passed me for the past two days, this military exercise would be involving a lot of troops and administrative personnel!

The Last Wide Truck To Pass Me & Approaching A New Crossroad!

 As I crossed the Bangad-Fort Magsaysay Road, I could see in front of me a newly constructed and newly-opened highway that goes way up to the mountains of Fort Magsaysay. The peak that I am going to reach was still vivid in my mind. It was the same “impact area” or location of our target when our basic infantry class had our hands-on firing of the 105-mm Howitzer Artillery pieces. Yes, those were the days when we were trained to request for an artillery fires by following some “structured” steps so that the one who is adjusting and pulling the trigger of the artillery piece would be able to land the artillery ammunition/rounds accurately to where the target is.

My Entry To The Newly-Opened Fort Magsaysay-Laur Shortcut Highway

Still Enjoying The Scenery of the Place

Still Counting On My Strides...Hydration Strategy Maintained

Quick Lunch At This Place

 After running at least 3 kilometers from the crossing/entrance of this new highway, I dropped by a roadside eatery, the only eatery before going up the peak of the mountain. It’s called Big Joe’s Eatery and I immediately asked for the viand available for lunch. They have Sinampalokan Na Manok which was the viand with a soup/broth for the day and I ordered two orders. The taste of a home-coke viand is heaven, moreso, if you are running a multi-day stage run!  They simply call the place “Tanawan” which is the common name they give to a place at the foot or mid-part of a mountain as you go to the peak. While I was eating, a white Lexus Car stopped at the place and the occupants also took their lunch thereat! What? These people could be locals, I thought. But when they were finished with their lunch, they asked how far is Santa Rosa is from the place. A-ha! They are also first-timers like me on this road!

Started Running Again After Lunch...The Mountain Pass Is On The Left Side of the Mountain!

 The road leading to the peak of the mountain was very challenging and the temperature of the day was so hot that I have to be supported every 500 meters. Definitely, this is the hardest leg of my adventure run. If the ascending portions are very challenging, the descending parts are much more challenging. I have to control my footsteps on the steep descending portions as I don’t want more pain and swelling of my left quads and knee. I took light and short strides on these downhill portions as I was careful with any untoward incident or issues on my leg muscles. I don’t want to do any foolish thing that may cause any untoward accident to happen with barely 50 kilometers away from my destination as I wanted to finish this adventure run. It could be funny to see me running on those descending portions as I could visualize myself to be running very erect with my back straight up as I control my footsteps/stride.

I Like The Heat From the Sun & The Road

Walking Backwards Along Steep Sections of the Road

I admit I walked on those steep ascending portions of the route that leads to the peak of the mountain. Sometimes, I tried to walk backwards just to relieve the pressure on my quads and knees as my calf muscles are the ones that are working and being stretched. There was no point on attempting to jog along these parts of the road. I feel much comfort that I was able to see a military detachment on top of the mountain where you can see Cabanatuan City on the west and the Sierra Madre Mountains on the east. Aside from providing security in the area, the military is also reforesting the place with young trees. There is also a road side eatery where food and refreshments are available and I could see some Nipa Huts which you could rent for P 50.00 per hour to enjoy the view of the place!

The View of Santa Rosa & Cabanatuan City On The Background

A Nipa Hut On Top of the Mountain

Aaahhh...Trying To Reach The Peak

 As I passed the peak of the mountain, I knew it will be a roller-coaster run/jog/walk up to the crossing on the old road/highway that goes to the small town of Laur, Nueva Ecija. The eastern side of the mountain is more developed and more populated as I could see some mango orchards and cultivated fields on the side of the mountain. There are also groups of houses (they call itself as “puroks”) which I assume are also illegal settlers. But most of all, I really wonder who owns those mango orchards whose trees are already bearing fruits that nearly touch the ground. I hope these mango orchards are under the administration of the military units stationed in Fort Magsaysay!

What??? Another higher peak hidden?

My Reward For Reaching The Top of the Mountain!

Mountains At The Background Are My Destination

Roller-Coaster Run On The Eastern Side of the Mountain

Running Beside A Mango Orchard

I told to myself that I have to reach the crossing towards Laur before it becomes dark. With consistent pacing and following my hydration and nutrition strategy, I could see already in a distance the vehicles that are travelling along the Laur-Gabaldon Road and it gave me the satisfaction that I still have one more day to go before I finally reach my destination.

Too Much Salt From My Sweat Even Without Taking Any Salt Tablets

Another "Marin Headlands" Version In Laur, NE?

Tired & Exhausted But Still Having Fun!

Getting Nearer to the Crossing in the Old Highway

As soon as I reached the crossing, I found out that I was able to cover a distance of 41 Kilometers since I started my run from Santa Rosa but I wanted to reach the Km Post 0 that is located in the Poblacion of Laur. I instructed my support crew that I have to complete at least 42 kilometers and I need one more kilometer to run. So, while I was running along the Laur-Gabaldon Road, in a few meters, I saw a Km Post that says that there are 4 kilometers more to go before reaching the town of Laur. I decided to continue my run with my support vehicle providing me with the illumination I needed. The road was not busy and it was already dark. I comfortably maintained my strides with the objective of reaching Laur and be able to run a distance of 45 kilometers for the day. As we got nearer to Km Post 0, we were able to pass by a store that serves hot mami and I decided to stop and take some hot noodle soup.

Finally Arriving At The Crossing of the Old National Highway to Laur

Running In The Dark Towards Laur, NE

We actually want to ask some information from the locals about the nearest resort where we can stay overnight and the store was the best place where we can inquire about such information. As we were eating our noodle soup, I started the conversation with the owner and after some exchange of questions and answers, we decided to take a look at the said resort that the owner of the store had recommended. However, I still need to run and reach Km Post 0 of Laur, Nueva Ecija. I was surprised that the Km Post is only 150 meters away from the Store!

Eating Chicken Mami In Laur

 I stopped my run officially for the day on the said Km Post. I need to rest but the place where we are going to check-in for the night is still 18 kilometers away towards Gabaldon. It took us only few minutes to reach the place aboard our support vehicle. Although the place is not well lighted, we did not mind as we need a place where we can take a shower, wash some clothes, and sleep overnight. Unfortunately, there is no Wi-Fi Connection! However, I am sure that once there will be sunlight the following morning, the place will emerge as a beautiful place to rest and stay!

Last Kilometer Post For The Day...36-37K To Go!

I was able to cover a distance of 45 Kilometers from the Starting Point in Santa Rosa up to Laur, Nueva Ecija. This leg is the hardest day in my adventure run due to the hot temperature in Fort Magsaysay and its immediate environs and the challenge of the steep inclines going to the mountain pass. The steep descending portions were also a challenge on my part because of my swollen quads but I was comforted with the nice scenery that my eyes could see all around me. These places and scenery are priceless!

We stayed overnight in a resort which is called Stone 8 Resort which 5 kilometers away from the Poblacion of Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija.

Some of the data/information on this day’s run:

Weather: Very, very hot along the Santa Rosa-Fort Magsaysay-Mountain Pass Road.

Distance Covered For The Day: 45 Kilometers

Time of Actual Running: 8 hours

Average Pace: 4-5 Kilometers Per Hour

Running Apparel: Adidas Tech Fit Compression Shorts; NIKE Compression Shirt; Adidas Running Cap; NIKE Black Soccer Socks; Ice Bandana; Buff; Sunglasses by Ray-Ban & Oakley

Running Shoe: ASICS Gel-LyteRacer

Expenses:

Lunch @ Old Joe’s Eatery (good for 2 persons)—P 120.00

Hot Mami @ Laur (good for two persons)—P 46.00

Total Expenses For The Day—P 166.00

Total Number of Kilometers (After 6 Days)—252 Kilometers

To be continued…


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Categories : Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Military, Pictures, Places to Run, Practice Runs, Runners Injury, Runners' Training, Running, Travel, Ultramarathon


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