“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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Trail Running 101

27 12 2011

“Trail Running have at least three of the four following characteristics: (1) surface should be unpaved; (2) have natural obstacles that may include but are not limited to rocks, tree stumps, tree roots, dirt, gravel, mud, moraine, leaves, grasses, ice, snow, and creek/water crossings; (3) have a significant gain or loss of elevation; (4) include scenic vistas. Some mountain races include a portion or an entire route on pavement; however, these races provide scenic vistas”…from the book “The Ultimate Guide To Trail Running” by Adam Chase & Nancy Hobbs

Scenic Vista; Elevation Gain & Loss; Unpaved Road

Rocks & Sun-Baked Trail

Bigger Rocks & Water Crossings

Better-Looking Trail With Softer Ground

Are there any questions?


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Official Result: 2nd Mt Pinatubo 50K Trail Challenge

5 09 2011

2nd Mt Pinatubo 50K Trail Challenge

5:00 AM September 4, 2011

Sta Juliana, Capas to Crater Lake & Back

Rank Name Time
1 Alfredo Ocampo 6:29:03
2 Rodel Gajol 6:29:05
3 Rayman Delos Angeles 6:34:10
4 Roel Olimba 6:43:07
5 Jerome Lagumbay 7:12:09
6 Jonel Mendoza 8:04:19
7 Godfrey Gozo 8:07:43
8 Ariel Briones 8:15:33
9 Ronel Mondedo 8:19:32
10 Joel Korea 8:20:30
11 Graciano Santos 8:22:10
12 Vergilio Leona 8:32:48
13 Edwin Gajol 8:39:06
14 Randy Rubio 8:40:45
15 Meljohn Tezon 8:50:53
16 Alexander Cenzon 8:55:42
17 Ian Esquilong 8:56:06
18 Angelo Lagumbay 8:57:15
19 Paolo Osmena 8:57:26
20 Andrew Balaaldia 9:13:28
21 Frederick Quitiquit 9:27:14
22 Jay Sabido 9:27:23
23 Samson Ocampo 9:28:28
24 Keshia Fule (F) 9:29:07
25 Toots Moratillo 9:33:33
26 Mark Villafuerte 9:35:38
27 Jael Wenceslao 9:36:15
28 Ronald Yllana 9:44:34
29 Arlito Masamoc 9:52:03
30 Jake Pescador 9:52:04
31 Benedick Meneses 9:59:02
32 Chito Carreon 10:00:51
33 Jazz Paringit 10:04:52
34 Mel Severino 10:10:05
35 Lester Jerome Chuayap 10:10:06
36 Chips Dayrit 10:16:47
37 Gil Ocampo 10:28:00
38 Raul Roco 10:28:24
39 Luke Mark Odon 10:41:19
40 Carl Ocampo 10:41:24
41 Ronaldo Sulapas 10:42:39
42 Ronnel Go 10:49:05
43 Nelson Mallillin 10:49:58
44 Emiliano Burgos 11:07:27
45 Audi Samar 11:09:18
46 Bong Alindada 11:13:49
47 Arman Garcia 11:15:28
48 Sherwin Botabara 11:23:54
49 Ray Batino 11:25:24
50 Robert Reyes 11:28:36
51 Maria Angela Stefanie Hefti (F) 11:28:38
52 Conrado Teodoro 11:28:45
53 Orlando Ylana 11:46:35
54 Philippe Arenillo 11:55:42
55 Bien Soberano 12:04:43
56 Zaldy Santillan 12:09:27
57 Garry Garcia 12:39:49

A total of 66 trail runners started the race with 9 participants declared as DNF. Congratulations to everybody for having the courage to join this trail running event. The stories and experiences of the runners will prove that this event is considered as the “toughest and most challenging” trail run in the country today. That is why it will remain as a CHALLENGE to everybody.

Congratulations to the Podium Finishers and to all the runners who braved the “sudden landslides” of lahar mountains; scorching heat of the sun in the early morning; heat from the lahar sand at mid-noon and early afternoon; more number of water crossings from wider rivers with flowing sands; strong downpour of rain in the afternoon; bigger and slippery rocks along the route; quicksands; and “flush flood” from the rivers.

For those who DNFed and got “temporarily lost” during the race, you still have a chance to redeem and improve your times for the next edition of the race.

See you next year!!!


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2nd Mt Pinatubo 50K Trail Challenge

30 08 2011

Note: The pictures above were taken last July 31, 2010 during the Birthday Run of July Oconer to Mount Pinatubo.

Rules and Regulations: 2nd Mt Pinatubo 50K Trail Challenge

  1. The race starts at 5:00 AM of September 4, 2011 (Sunday) at the vicinity of the Barangay Hall of Sta. Juliana, Capas, Tarlac.
  2. This race is a solo run and the distance is 50 kilometers. The distance from the Starting Line to the Mt Pinatubo Crater Lake (turn-around) is 25 kilometers. From the turn-around point, the runner has to go back to the Starting Line which will serve also as the Finish Line. Pacers are not allowed.
  3. The cut-off time for the race is twelve (12) hours. Runners must be able to reach the turn-around point in 5:30 hours. Runners who will reach the turn-around point in more than 5:30 hours will be advised to ride on the available 4X4 vehicle in going back to the Starting Line. Such runners will be declared as DNF.
  4. Each runner must be able to have their respective hydration system/belt. The runner’s hydration system must be able to carry liquid/water needed to cover a distance of at least 15 kilometers. There will be Aid Station at Km#8-9 & Km#16-17 and these same Aid Stations will serve as Stations at Km# 33-34 and Km # 42-43 (on the way back). These Aid Stations will be 4X4 vehicles manned by Race Marshals. Be sure to carry some food for you to eat at the Crater/turn-around point (Km #25). The park at the Crater has faucets where you can fill water for your hydration system.
  5. The Aid Stations will have water, cola drinks and limited food supply. The foods served will be chocolate bites, salted biscuits, boiled eggs, and boiled bananas.
  6. Runners are encouraged to prepare their own “drop bags” which will be carried/transported by the 4X4 Vehicle-Aid Stations. Drop Bags should be properly marked with the runner’s name, race number, and Aid Station Number/Km Point where it will be available.
  7. Runner has the option to provide his/her own support vehicle from the 4X4 vehicles for rent available through the Barangay Officials at the Barangay Hall of Sta Juliana. The rent/cost of one vehicle is P 2,500.00 (last year’s price). The fee for a guide is P 500.00 (optional for the runner to get one). However, such individual support vehicle should not “shadow” the runner. It is advisable that support vehicles must “leap-frog” from the runner.
  8. The exact turn-around point is at the edge of the Crater Lake. Runners should go down the stairs as each runner must be able to register to the marshal-recorder upon his/her arrival thereat. Runners shall be properly “marked” at the turn-around point by the Race Marshal thereat.
  9. Runners are advised not to ride on their respective support vehicle even for a short distance or while crossing the river. Riding on the vehicle is tantamount to “cheating” during the race.
  10. Since most of the route towards the Mt Pinatubo has no established or designated trail or path due to changing landscape as a result water & earth movements, the runner can improvise or have his/her own personal choice in establishing his/her direction towards the crater. The rule of thumb for the direction towards the crater is ALWAYS STAY ON THE LEFT PART OF THE EXPOSED AREA going southerly direction.
  11. It is advisable to run with somebody or with a group with the same pace. If not, each runner must be able to have a sight on the runner in front and runner at his back.
  12. This is a trail run which is considered as a RACE. However, it is advisable to help each other on matters of emergency and occurrence of accidents along the route. Any casualty or runner who needs medical attention should be brought to the nearest Aid Station.
  13. Each runner must carry with them basic First Aid Kit. This is a MUST and it is a ground for Disqualification if a runner is without this basic requirement. The First Aid Kit should consist enough cotton, sanitary gauze, medical adhesive tape, betadyne/iodine, and anti-biotic ointment.
  14. Runners must be extra careful in stepping those big rocks along the route. Most of the rocks are slippery and some are not stable. It is safer to walk rather than run on these rocks. Always think safety when you encounter rocks along the way.
  15. There will be a lot of river crossing. Find time to be deliberate in crossing such flowing rivers, most especially where there are a lot of rocks. There are some places where the current of the river are strong, take time in establishing a firm and balance footing as you cross such rivers.
  16. Basically, you will have damp/wet running shoes throughout the run. It is advisable for each runner to apply petroleum jelly to their feet before the run to prevent blisters.
  17. Walking sticks or Trekking Poles are allowed on this run.
  18. At the Crater Lake, if you are not a swimmer, please do not attempt to swim at the lake. We don’t have any Lifeguards for this race.
  19. If in case there will be typhoon or continuous raining on race day, the event will be cancelled and it will be postponed to a later date when weather is favorable for the safety of the participants. Please check on the recent race updates on the Event Page on my Wall at Facebook.
  20. Top 3 Overall and Ladies will receive trophies. Every Finisher will receive Individual PAU’s Finisher’s Medal; Finisher’s T-Shirt; and a Certificate of Achievement (to be given later). This trail run is included in the Ranking of PAU Runners for the Year.
  21. Parking Areas will be available on one side of the Road at Barangay Sta Juliana and at the area near the banks of the river (500 meters from the Barangay Hall). Barangay Tanods will serve as the security/”look-out” to your parked vehicles. Be prepared to pay P 50.00 as Parking Fee for each vehicle to the Barangay Tanods.
  22. The RD and Race Marshals will be conducting random checks on each runner’s hydration system and the mandatory First Aid Kit along the route. It is mandatory for each runner to show their First Aid Kit as he/she checks-in at the Starting Area.
  23. Lastly, please maintain the Integrity of this Race.
  24. For those who paid/deposited their registration fee at LANDBANK, please bring your deposit slip/receipt at the Starting Line for verification.
  25. No bandits to be allowed on this event. Insisting to be a Bandit? Go ahead, make our day!!!

Good luck and Have FUN!!!!

Mt Pinatubo 50K Trail Challenge Elevation Profile (Courtesy of Mark Hernandez)


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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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“Hi-Tech” In Ultra Running

1 07 2011

Just like in any sport, technology is coming into play as an edge over your opponent or competitor. In endurance sports like long distance running/ultra marathon runs, technology plays on the runner’s kit (shoes and apparel), nutrition, and hydration. This is in addition with the technology devoted on the running form and body/physical structure of the runner; and other training-related “ways and means” in order to win in a certain race.

In the newly-concluded Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run, interest had been focused on the training/preparation and the equipment/kit & nutrition that the Champion, Kilian Jornet, had used during the race. On the training/preparation, we all know that Kilian Jornet had been all around Europe and the world, so to speak, since his 3rd finish in last year’s Western States 100 to compete in ultra trail races and documenting his “Kilian Quest” as sponsored by Salomon. Last May, 5 weeks before the WS 100, he won and registered a course record for the TNF 100K in Australia.

Kilian's Shorts & Shirt (A close-up with my picture with him reveals its Gel pockets) Source: Competitor.com

In his attire during this year’s WS 100, we was wearing a loose “muscle shirt-type” upper attire which is colored white and combined with a loose trail shorts which has an inseam of about 3-4 inches. But if you noticed closely the upper white portion of his shorts, you could see a belt-type pocket all-around his waist where you can see GU Gels in it. It appears that the belt/waist portion of the shorts is lined-up with secret pockets where the runner can store/carry gels or powdered electrolytes. Wearing loose apparel was a way to solve the the hot temperature on the canyons along the route of the race.

I did not see Kilian using a hydration bottle when he reached the Placer Oval Track. He was not holding anything during his last 300 meters to the finish line. However, in his pre-interviews, he stated that Salomon had made a special hand glove water bottles for him which he can hold while running. Kilian was a victim of lack of hydration and electrolytes on the last quarter part of last year’s WS 100 as he experience muscle cramps. As you can see in his first attempt in the WS 100, he was not holding or wearing a hydration system during the race.

In an article at Competitor.com, the hand glove bottles were featured as shown below:

Hand Gloves With Water Bottles & Food Bars (Source: Competitor.com)

As for the running shoes, he used the lightest Salomon Trail Shoes which is considered as a prototype to be tested in the said race.

Salomon Trail Shoes (Source: Competitor.com)

And he was running without any socks!!!

Looking at the physical structure of Kilian, he was very light in weight. His height could be 5 feet and 6 inches with a weight of about 130-135 pounds. Using the lightest apparel and equipment and proper nutrition and hydration, could result to a well-trained and prepared athlete for the Championship in this race.

Of course, he has the Salomon Team on his “back and sides” to fully support and finance him just to be able to win the most prestigious 100-Mile Trail Run in Northern America.

This is an example and mark of what we call, “Sports Excellence”.

If you are wondering at what age he started to be trained and his exploits in the past, you can read his story and other related topics about him at www.kilianjornet.cat.

On the latest interview of Kilian Jornet after his win in the WS 100, you can read about his insights here at Running Times.


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BR & Kilian Jornet @ WS 100

28 06 2011

There were three reasons why I went to the US. First, to join/participate in the 2011 Miwok 100K Ultra Trail Run in Marin Headlands where I ended as one of the Volunteers. Second, to make a recon on the route and watch the top finishers of the prestigious 2011 Western States 100-Mile Endurance Race. And, third, to have a rest and vacation from running. It is a blessing in disguise that I was injured last March during my adventure from from “West to East”.

Looking Like A Lost Tourist At Foresthill

Last weekend, I drove from Los Angeles to Foresthill, California and later to Auburn’s Placer High School Oval Track where the finish line of the Western States 100-Mile Race is located. The distance I’ve traveled was about 450 miles which took me for about 10 hours to include my pit stops along the way. After not being able to locate the exact location of the Foresthill High School where one of the Aid Stations was located, I opted to finally wait at the Finish Line.

While Waiting At The Finish Line

After one hour of waiting, the 1st runner arrived and it was Spain’s Kilian Jornet in 15:34:23 hours. He was followed by Mike Wolfe after 4-5 minutes and then Nick Clark, Jez Bragg, and Tsuyoshi Kaburaki of Japan. I left the place after Kaburaki finished the race.

After Crossing The Finish Line, Kilian Turned Around To the Cheering Crowd

While Kilian Jornet was interviewed by the Race Director Greg Soderlund, I had a chance to have a conversation with a nice guy who was standing beside me on the gallery. I was surprised to know that he was the Champion runner in the 1989 Western States edition! I guess, we talked for about 30 minutes that I forgot to track down Kilian Jornet with the crowd. My conversation with this interesting guy will be reserved in a dedicated post in this blog.

Finally, I tried to locate Kilian by trying to find his support team’s vehicle at the parking lot and I thought I missed the opportunity to talk and have a picture with him. But I was surprised to find out that he was still inside the perimeter of the oval track. I was able to track him as he came out from the bathroom!

If I am 145 lbs, Kilian Must Be 135 lbs!!!

I talked to him and wished him with a big congratulations! And he replied positively and he was smiling. We had a brief conversation and he was still fresh and looked like he did not run for the past 15 1/2 hours for a distance of 100 miles in the mountain trails. I requested for a picture with him and he was very cooperative. We talked briefly after the shots and other people from the audience requested also for some pictures with him before he left the oval track compound.

Let me describe how he ran the last 50 yards to the finish line. He started to brisk walk and had “high fives” with the audience on the right side of the oval track. He was also congratulated with handshakes with the people before the finish line. After those handshakes and “high fives”, he simply walked and crossed the Finish Line and turned around and raised his hands towards the cheering audience on the track and on the grandstand. He was smiling and he was looking fresh!

Another Picture With The 2011 Western States 100-Mile Run Champion

After standing on the weighing scale to get his weight, he was awarded with his medal and congratulated by the Race Director. Immediately, he was interviewed by the RD and his answers were heard by the crowd. He was simply a humble and happy guy!

Looking at him within a distance of 5-7 meters, I could see that he is as tall or short like my elite runners with Team Bald Runner. It appears that the has the same size/built and height with Alquin Bolivar and Alley Quisay. I have the notion that our size as Asian has the potential to train and excel in this kind of race. Knowing that Kilian is considered as the youngest winner in this race at the age of 23 years old, it defies the odds that ultra runners are best when they are more matured or older in age.

As he left the oval track’s compound towards his support vehicle, I could see that he was walking normally without any sign of limping.

It was an amazing sight of a young, strong, and fast ultra mountain trail runner.


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Do We Love Pain?

23 05 2011

The following is an article that I copied from a trail running book which I want to share to my readers, whether you are a newbie runner or an accomplished/competitive ultra runner. You can share also your answer to the said question on the title.

Do We Love Pain? 

Not long ago, I posted the question on a blog site: “Are we endurance athletes driven by the solipsistic need for self-validation, as in, ‘we hurt, therefore we are’; or is it that we love the pain and exertion and, therefore, more is better?”

The answers were quite edifying so I thought I’d share them:

–Personally, I love it–the pain, I mean. But most importantly, I view the pain as the engine to drive me to reach my goals. In other words, I know I’m hurting because I’m on hour four of a six-hour effort and that I’m that much closer to seeing nature in full effect. Or, that the pain is getting me through a technical uphill section. The pain is an indication that I’m do-ing!

–I train so I don’t hurt any more.

–I tend to agree; when I was most prepared to race, pain wasn’t much of a factor. The validation came in competing against others.

 –I was getting massage last night, and the therapist asked, “You do work your body hard, don’t you? What is your motivation?” I didn’t know what to say, mainly because my face was being shoved into the hole as he stretched my calf and it was hard to talk anyway…but he made me think. I don’t know that I have a good answer, but I agree that training is to avoid future pain, I also know that I absolutely love being out in the wilderness, and the harder I train, the more time I am able to spend in that environment.

–It’s all about the balance. You feel so good afterwards because you suffered through the pain during it. The sweetness of completing something wouldn’t be the same if it was easy to do. Being in pain, working through it, and finishing bring the accomplishment more meaning.

–I say it’s like most things in life: combo platter.

–I don’t love pain…but it makes me stronger, and in that way it helps me achieve my goals. I think the key to the answer lies within our personal goals.

–Balance. For me it’s all about the three-part teeter totter: sport, family, work. Each causes (good) pain the harder you try at it, and all must be in balance to make each truly meaningful.

–Maybe we like the pain. Maybe we’re wired that way. Because without it, I don’t know, maybe we just wouldn’t feel real. What’s that saying? “Why do I keep hitting myself with a hammer? Because it feels so good when I stop.” I can’t take credit for the qoute, but it seems somewhat appropriate.

–I love it and think that more is fun but moderation is the key to longevity and health. I’m enjoying my Boston Marathon hangover. Pain is relative. I just wish I could recover quicker!

–If pain feels good, if pain = pleasure, then is it really pain? But I am proud to be one of the finish-line crossers so maybe pain = proud.

–It’s not the pain that’s enjoyable, it’s the feeling of accomplishment and daily reinforcement that your body is adapting—getting stronger and/or faster. Pain is a reminder that you pushed hard. We need to be more aware about the weakest point in our body, as that seems to break first. Strengthen the weakest part to keep the rest in balance.

–So many times I’ve been asked if I love pain. Or, why do I put myself through all this “insane training and criminal early (very early) morning runs?” And I have questioned myself, too: why? I love pain, I do, it make me feel alive! It makes me feel I trained, I paid my dues, I have a right to be where I am. Too crazy? Maybe.

(Source: The Ultimate Guide To Trail Running: 2nd Edition by Adam Chase & Nancy Hobbs. Guilford, Connecticut: 2010; pages 71-73)


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Insights & Observations @ 2011 Miwok 100

15 05 2011

On Race Management

1. Registration—Every runner must apply and register at Ultra SignUp, at least 8 months before Race Day. The deadline of application is approximately 6 months before Race Day. (Note: It is a good motivation to follow a 24-week training program for this ultra trail event). The last day of application was on December 1, 2010. All runner-applicants must go through a lottery to be able to cover the maximum number of runners allowed for the race to 446 only. The final list of accepted runners (through lottery) are published at Ultra SignUp effective on December 10, 2010. The registration fee of $ 155.00 is immediately credited from the runner’s Credit Card once he/she is accepted . Few weeks from race day, each runner is designated with a Race Number. Most of the runners can redeem their Race Packet/Bib within the period of at least one hour before the Start of the race.

2. Maturity of the Race—The 2011 Race is the 16th edition of the event as it started in 1996. I am sure through the years, the Race Management, to include the Prizes and “give-aways”/schwag, had improved with the presence of corporate sponsors. According to Rick Gaston, Miwok 100 had built its reputation as the “prime” ultra trail run at the Marin Headlands during the spring season. The other trail race that is also popular and has one of the best reputation in terms of race management and attendance of top elite athletes in the Marin Headlands is the TNF 50-Mile Championship on the 1st weekend of December every year. Maturity goes with the proper planning and preparation of the event as seen by the favorable feedback from the runners after the race. As one of the volunteers, I was impressed on the cooperation and unity among the members of the group.

3. Volunteer System—The involvement of the volunteers was impressive. The leadership of the Race Director in orchestrating all the jobs of all the committees involved speaks well of the excellent organization, planning, and professionalism of everybody. I was able to feel the “bayanihan” atmosphere among the volunteers. Each of the volunteers had specific job to perform and they are expert and knowledgeable of what to do. I am not surprised about this because all the volunteers are ultra marathoners themselves!  The volunteers at the different Aid Stations made sure that each runner was attended through all their needs, from cheering, filling their hydration bottles, serving them with food and even locating and giving them their drop bags.

4. Prizes, Schwag, and Montrail Cup Series—If I joined the race, finishing the distance within the prescribed cut-off time would be the most defining “prize” for me. Those schwag/give-aways are just souvenirs or evidence to prove that I was part of the race. However, for the top elite runners, what is important to them was to earn points as this race was part of the annual Montrail Cup Series where a runner joins at least four (4) ultra trail races of the said series and the runner with the highest points will be awarded a cash prize of $ 5,000.00. For this year, the Miwok Race started to award $ 500.00 for the Champion.

Miwok 100 Altitude Profile (Source: Miwok 100 Website)

5. Simplicity—Trail Running events are not evaluated in terms of bright lights, lots of tarpaulins and banners, loud speakers with blaring disco music, Emcees with nice English pronunciation, leading a prayer and singing the National Anthem, arches, marshals and security personnel at the Start/Assembly Area. They are evaluated by the simplicity of the event. Trail running is the purest form of running event where the scenery, degree of difficulty, and the camaraderie of the participants and the volunteers count most. The event lacked the things that I mentioned previously. Also, there are no distance markers along the route as the location of the Aid Stations serves as the distance markers for everybody. I did not even see water cups filled with water or sports drinks on the tables available in the different aid stations. What I saw were water pitchers being used to fill-up the hydration bladders and bottles of runners who need water or sports drinks. The route was marked with pink-colored ribbons tied on the shrubs, trees, grasses, and trail posts; and the paved road had pink-colored adhesive tape with an arrow-directional sign. What impressed me most was the fact that the race started on time!

On the Runners

1. Hydration System—Out of the top ten finishers whom I personally observed at the Starting Line up to the Pan Toll Aid Station and at the finish line, it was only Ian Sharman aka Elvis Presley (#10) who was running with a shoulder hydration pack (TNF Enduro BOA Hydration Tack). I did not see Hal Koerner holding or sporting a hydration system throughout the race. All the remaining top 8 runners were holding a hydration bottle on either one of their hands during the race. On the mid-pack and the sweeper groups, most of them use hydration backpacks (Camelbak & Nathan) and some with hydration belts with at least two bottles of 20-ounces each in liquid capacity.

2. Running Shorts—It was only Hal Koerner who was using a compression shorts and the rest of the top 8 runners were using the regular running shorts which are the split and v-notch type. I would suspect that their running shorts must have a lot of pockets where they can stow their gels, endurance powders, Vitamin I, and Clif Bloks. Or else, they have their respective support crew waiting for them in every Aid Station to provide them with their necessary nutrition and hydration needs. I did not recall if I saw any of the men among the participants using long compression tights.

3. Body Structure—Dave Mackey, Mike Wolfe, Hal Koerner, and Dakota Jones are tall and have muscular bodies. Which is translated to longer legs and ultimately, longer strides when they run. Their longer and strong legs could withstand their momentum in maintaining a running form on the inclines/uphills of the route. With such body structures, you could just imagine how fast these guys would run on the downhills. As for Ian Sharman, he has an average body size of a runner who happens to be an inch or two taller than me and leaner than the top 4 runners but I was able to discover why he was able to beat Tony Krupicka at this year’s Rocky Raccoon—he has a very fast, quick and light leg turn-over in an ultra race! Personally, I can predict that Ian Sharman will be this year’s Champion in the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run even with the presence of Kilian Jornet Burgada.

4. Running Shoes—I was surprised to see Dave Mackey using a weird-looking trail shoes (Hoka One One) which he used in his past 1st place trail running events. This is an opposite view of the minimalist approach of some of the elite trail running athletes. I was more surprised when I saw Mike Wolfe, a TNF model & endorser, to be using a New Balance MT 101 Trail Shoes! On the other hand, Hal Koerner was using a NIKE Lunaracer which is considered a road racing flat shoes!

5. Stop or Pass On Aid Stations—Elite athletes do not stop at Aid Stations if they have support crew waiting for them to hand them what they need from one Aid Station to another. For those who who don’t have any support crew, they stop to refill their hydration bottle/s or packs with the needed fluids and grab some gels or foods offered on the tables. A few yards from the Aid Station, the runners would remove the lid/cover of their bottles and as soon as they reach the Aid Station, the runner would simply extend his/her arm to the volunteers who would refill such bottle using a water pitcher. Sometimes, they just grab canned soda drinks and drink the contents while they are running. You will be surprised how they would stow their empty cans and empty gel packs in their running shorts up to the next aid station where trash bins are located. Runners are strictly following the rule of not littering their trash on the trails or else they will be disqualified. As for the mid-pack and sweepers, stopping on the Aid Station is a must for re-supply and rest purposes as long as they are within the cut-off time of arrival on such Aid Station.

Runners With Open Bottles Few Yards From the Aid Station

Volunteers With Water Pitcher Refilling Hand-Held Bottles @ Aid Station

6. “Fanny” Packs or Belt Bags—These bags worn as belt could be seen on the picture above where the two lady runners are using. If a runner is using hand-held water bottles and using running shorts with small pockets, these “fanny” belt packs which are light, flat and snugged to the body are good running accessory for an ultra trail runner where he/she could stow a cellphone/camera, cash, keys, sports gels, sports mix, salt tablets, Vitamin I, and sports bars/food.

7. Arm Sleeves & Calf Sleeves—It is reasonable that the runners would use arm sleeves because of the cold temperature but I could see that most of the runners were using calf sleeves, to include the lady runners. In my experience, I believe in the use of these calf sleeves during my workout and during my recovery. I am presently using the Zensha Compression Calf Sleeves during my long runs while a tighter 2XU Compression Calf Sleeves are used during my recovery periods.

One of the top runners (Freedman) with Arm & Calf Sleeves

8. Using of “Wires”—The top 4 male and female runners were not using any “wires” to their ears. I believe that these elite runners are well-focused and sharp on the task at hand during the race. In the Race Reports of these elite athletes, they could hear the steps, breathing, and sounds of the environment. These top runners would maintain conversation among themselves on wider trails. Instead of listening to music, these runners listen to their footsteps on the trails; they listen how their competitors’ breathing in order to find out if they are still strong or exhausted; and listen to the steps of the runner ahead and behind them. On single-track trails, there is a need to communicate to the runner ahead of you if you intend to pass and it would be inappropriate if a runner to be passed is using some “wires” with some loud music being played on his earphones and could hardly hear the verbal warning from the runner behind him.

Lastly, Tia Bodington (RD) sent me an e-mail 2 days after the event expressing her thanks for being a part of the Volunteer Group of the event. She called me as one of the members of the “Miwok 100 Traffic Czars”. Sweet!


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2011 Miwok 100 Video

13 05 2011

This is the video of the frontrunners during the 2011 Miwok 100 Trail Run.

This video was copied from “you tube” which was posted by the Endurables.

Looking at the video, the recording or filming of this event was done by one of the runner-participants who leapfrogs from one section of the course to another by taking the adjacent paved road that is parallel to the direction of the trail. He could be using a car from one entry-access to the trail to another. It is just my suspicion but I might be wrong since I did not see any cyclist mounted on a mountain bike trying to film the event.

The first few seconds of the video shows the top 3 finishers who were sitting and conversing with one another. Hal Koerner in blue upper shirt, black compression shorts, and blue calf sleeves; Dave Mackey wearing a sun visor; and Mike Wolfe.

I am familiar with the 1st 7 miles of the course as some of it are on the paved roads of the Marin Headlands. After their early start at the Rodeo Lagoon Beach, all the runners go to the Rodeo Trail until they reach the paved Conzelman Road which is located south of the Rodeo Lagoon until they reach the Coastal Trail that leads the runners back to where they started. After the runners cross the small bridge at the Rodeo Lagoon, it is now the start of their climb towards the Townsley Battery and northward direction to Mt Tamalpais Park.

It was my first time to enter the Pantoll Station which is 13 miles away from the Rodeo Lagoon. I’ve seen and ran on the trails all the way up to Muir Beach after passing the Wolfe Ridge Trail, Miwok Trail, Old Springs Trail, and towards the Tennessee Valley. But from Muir Beach, I could say that it is a continuous uphill towards the Pantoll Station by looking at the overall contour of the area.

The next portion of the video where there is a muddy area along the curve portion of the trail is that part which is approaching the Tennessee Valley Aid Station. At this point, the runners had covered 11 miles and on their way back, this will be the last Aid Station before they reach the Finish Line.

The portion where you see the runners in single file is the trail on the ridge of the mountain facing the Pacific Ocean. By looking at the movement of the grasses surrounding the runners, you could conclude how strong was the wind coming from the ocean.

Looking at the video, the race was contested between the top 4 runners—Dave Mackey, Mike Wolfe, Hal Koerner, and Dakota Jones as the “real” race started after the turn-around. The first 3 runners are veterans of ultra trail running competitions and they had been running this route and part of the Miwok 100 past editions. Dave Mackey is the holder of the course record in 7:53+ hours. It was Dakota Jones first race at the Miwok 100. After the turn-around and on their way back to Pantoll Station, Dakota Jones took the lead with Dave Mackey behind him. But, before reaching the Pantoll Station, it was a competition between Mike Wolfe and Dave Mackey. Dakota explained in his blog what happened to him during the race.

I had finished with my job as a volunteer when Dave Mackey was approaching the Point Bonita YMCA as the first runner of the race. He finished in 8:03:22 hours, followed by Mike Wolfe in 8:06:00 hours and then Hal Koerner in 8:06:55 hours. Dakota Jones arrived almost 11 minutes behind Hal Koerner.

My next post on this race will deal on my personal observations on the race and its runners.


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