Category: Sports Program

Running Lecture @ Wyeth, Phils.

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Runners' Training, Running, Sports Program1 Comment

Chito Carreon, a passionate ultrarunner and “veteran” of BDM 102K Ultramarathon Race and one of the executives of Wyeth, Philippines, invited me for a Running Lecture/Clinic to interested officers, staff and employees of the company on the first week of October 2010 at their corporate office in Makati City.

The lecture was conducted at 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM in the presence of almost 30 participants. The activity started with a lecture on the Basics and Principles of Running. After the lecture presentation, the participants were encouraged to join the members of the Elite Team Bald Runner on the practical side of running. Demonstration on the warm-up and stretching exercises which are done before and after running workouts were done by the participants. After the demonstrations, “running drills” were also performed by everybody. An Open Forum was conducted to answer the questions/concerns of the participants.

Mr Carreon was kind and generous to present to the members of the team with gifts, running shoes for my Project Donate A Shoe, vitamins and other products of the company, certificates and “giveaways” before we finally ended the activity. Thanks to Chito Carreon and to Wyeth, Philippines. Such gifts are in the “need-list” of my elite athletes.

Lecture Introduction From Ultrarunner Chito Carreon
BR's Lecture On Running Basics & Principles
"Future" Members of the Wyeth Running Club
Practical Demonstration Of Stretching Exercises
Group Picture After The Lecture/Clinic

Result: 4th PAU “T2N” 50K Run

On By kingofpotsIn Jogging, Race Results, Races, Running, Sports Program, Ultramarathon10 Comments

Congratulations to the Winners and Finishers! And to all the Support Crew who were the “movers/pushers & inspiration” of the runners to cross the Finish Line! To those who finished their first ultra run, PAU welcomes you to the ultrarunning community.

4th PAU 50K Run
Tagaytay City – Nasugbu, Batangas
14-Nov-10
       
1 Hermogines Olvis 4:11:56 Champion (Male)
2 Sunday Ombrog  4:15:15 1st Runner-up (Male)
3 Christopher Iblan 4:25:28 2nd Runner-up (Male)
4 Alfredo Ocampo 4:32:22  
5 Arnold Dimasuhid 4:32:23  
6 Gregorio Ocampo 4:39:35  
7 Junrox Roque 4:44:15  
8 Rodel Gajol 4:51:25  
9 Wilnar Iglesia 4:57:34  
10 Manolito Anyaya 4:57:35  
11 Armand Fernando 5:01:25  
12 Marcos Lontoc 5:01:53  
13 Edison Tocson 5:08:18  
14 Eric Bullena 5:10:47  
15 Alfred Delos Reyes 5:14:18  
16 Edwin Gajol 5:14:43  
17 Dionisio Manzano 5:14:45  
18 Godfrey Gozo 5:21:00  
19 Jovani Hernandez 5:21:32  
20 Joel Korea 5:21:33  
21 Saturnino Camangonan 5:22:14  
22 Dindo Diaz 5:23:30  
23 Chito Vegim 5:24:50  
24 Jose Dueñas 5:26:58  
25 Vergelio Leona 5:28:08  
26 Francisco Lapira 5:28:15  
27 George Dolores 5:28:48  
28 Jerry Adriano 5:28:52  
29 Oscar Sañez 5:29:18  
30 Roel Olimba 5:32:05  
31 Vener Roldan 5:32:35  
32 Graciano Santos 5:34:24  
33 Cristina Narvaez   (F) 5:35:50 Champion  (Ladies)
34 Mark Adrian Hernandez 5:36:38  
35 Sandy Alentajan 5:38:32  
36 Celma Hitalia    (F) 5:39:02 1st Runner-up (Ladies)
37 Albert Henson 5:39:58  
38 Patrick Winceth Alcomendas 5:40:44  
39 Mark Anthony Rodica 5:40:46  
40 Karen Kate Pascual  (F) 5:41:04 2nd Runner-up (Ladies)
41 Ernesto Abas 5:42:14  
42 Jeremiah Isip 5:43:45  
43 Allan Bandiola 5:43:50  
44 Joey Baladad 5:44:35  
45 Christine Ferrera  (F) 5:45:15  
46 Christian Oting 5:49:02  
47 Bong Bernadez 5:49:03  
48 Ceasar Abarientos 5:51:20  
49 Roberto Delos Santos, Jr 5:51:54  
50 Roberto Reyes 5:52:00  
51 Jay Chavez 5:52:50  
52 Frederick Gabriel 5:53:15  
53 Allen Gaspar 5:54:45  
54 John Jeffrey Avellanosa 5:56:48  
55 Ramgel Marquez 5:57:13  
56 Ysmael Ilagan 5:58:13  
57 Russel Pata 5:58:49  
58 Mel Severino 5:58:52  
59 Ria Go Tian  (F) 6:00:54  
60 Ric Cabusao 6:00:55  
61 Moses Moreno 6:03:50  
62 Alexander Macalintal 6:04:18  
63 Jose Cando 6:08:05  
64 Rufino Morimonte 6:08:07  
65 Mark Salvador 6:12:48  
66 Gil Brazil 6:13:12  
67 Francis Andrew Santiago 6:16:22  
68 Edilberto Yonzon 6:17:26  
69 Jerome Cartailler 6:17:45  
70 Ian Colendra 6:17:50  
71 Victor Ting 6:21:34  
72 Michael Fabian 6:21:36  
73 Chito Carreon 6:23:10  
74 Enrico Tocol 6:24:40  
75 Odessa Coral  (F) 6:24:50  
76 Leo Tugade 6:26:10  
77 Michael Santos 6:26:11  
78 Paul Amerigo Pajo 6:28:40  
79 Junn Besana 6:28:48  
80 Vincent Ocampo 6:30:22  
81 Nelson Mallillin 6:32:04  
82 Jose Erickson Targa 6:32:15  
83 Ferdie Cabiling 6:32:24  
84 Joshua Suarez 6:32:30  
85 Reginald Santos 6:33:18  
86 Jael Wenceslao 6:33:48  
87 Jag Irasga 6:37:10  
88 Christian Paul Forbes 6:37:20  
89 Ian Lim 6:38:12  
90 Bob Castilla 6:39:06  
91 Andy Reyes 6:39:07  
92 Jonathan Sy 6:39:22  
93 Ernesto Jose 6:40:14  
94 Arlito Masamoc 6:41:02  
95 Macky Coronel 6:41:34  
96 Conrado Teodoro 6:41:56  
97 Joseph Baltazar 6:45:30  
98 Rodel Montejo 6:45:32  
99 Gil Ocampo 6:46:43  
100 Ronilo Nabong 6:48:52  
101 Andrew Llanes 6:50:50  
102 Emma Alvarez  (F) 6:52:18  
103 Crisanto Ubungen 6:52:19  
104 Xerxis Tan 6:53:30  
105 Raymund Renato Canta 6:55:56  
106 Raul Roco 6:59:02  
107 Grimaldo Anecito 6:59:03  
108 Vans Camannong 7:00:42  
109 Ma. Roxanne Catolos  (F) 7:02:45  
110 Joseph Soriao 7:03:25  
111 Ronald Perez 7:03:42  
112 Fernando Cabañero 7:03:43  
113 Benedict Meneses 7:05:22  
114 Emerson Go Tian 7:06:42  
115 Jojo Berug 7:08:55  
116 Junar Layug 7:09:09  
117 Blas Ople Tiangco 7:11:44  
118 David Buban 7:13:18  
119 Carlo Serrano 7:13:34  
120 Christopher Ng 7:15:34  
121 Paolo Lukban 7:15:35  
122 Wilfredo Aga, Jr 7:15:36  
123 Cristina Cunanan  (F) 7:15:42  
124 Victor Viola 7:16:26  
125 Raymund Suarez 7:17:34  
126 Wesley Noel Oraña 7:17:59  
127 Ronaldo Sulapas 7:19:59  
128 Philippe Arenillio 7:20:02  
129 Rosgar Apolinario 7:20:58  
130 Christopher Montaos 7:23:32  
131 Sherwin Tommy Botabara 7:24:26  
132 Edwin Rara 7:30:10  
133 Roselle Dadal  (F) 7:34:08  
134 Marlin Marilag 7:38:14  
135 Leynard Gripal 7:41:05  
136 Macky Delima 7:41:40  
137 Wayne Plymale 7:42:45  
138 Lorie Padua 7:43:34  
139 John Paul Bautista 7:46:45  
140 Vivencio Soriano 7:54:20  
141 Mark Anthony Alindada 7:57:20  
142 Ayette Padua  7:57:36  
143 Jimmy Ong 7:57:38  
144 Harold Lorette 7:59:18  
145 Carl Balagot 7:59:20  
146 Lemuel Narcise 8:00:20  
147 Emiliano Burgos 8:05:10  
148 Ellen Abegail Castillo  (F) 8:05:43  
149 Mark Fer Castillo 8:06:27  
150 Alfred Paul Paiso 8:06:28  
151 Samuel Narcise 8:10:18  
152 Eddie Yruma 8:23:00  
153 Aaron Anievas 8:38:04  
154 Angel Henson 8:38:05  
155 Kris Nuñez 8:49:20  
156 Roy Tan 8:50:42  
157 Norberto Mortel 9:30:05  
158 Arturo Virata 11:13:30  
159 Princess Duterte  (F) 11:13:32  

Guidelines For “T2N”

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Places to Run, Races, Running, Sports Program, Ultramarathon5 Comments

Guidelines For T2N (Tagaytay to Nasugbu) 50K Run

  1. This is a solo race. The race will start at 5:00 AM of Sunday, November 14, 2010 in front of the People’s Park in Tagaytay City. The Finish Line of the race is INSIDE Plaza De Roxas in Nasugbu, Bataan. Plaza De Roxas is the Municipal Public Park located in front of the Nasugbu Municipal Hall. (Note: Runners have to pass in front of the Jollibee and then turn right at the next street and then enter at the Gate of Plaza De Roxas.)
  2. Runners are allowed to have their support vehicle & crew but they are not allowed to have pacers. (Note: Pacers should be registered runners). Support Vehicle should “leap-frog” from their runner/s and “shadowing” the runner is strictly not allowed. There is no prescribed number of runners to be supported for each support vehicle.
  3. Runners’ Bib should be pinned and displayed in front of the runner’s apparel.
  4. Runners are highly encouraged to bring and wear with them their respective hydration system/belt during the race. We have a limited number of water stations/aid stations along the route.
  5. The Water/Aid Station are located at the Km #20 and Km #40. These stations will also serve as the runners’ drop bag stations. Runners without support vehicles are encouraged to prepare their drop bags and they will be brought to these Aid Stations. Drop Bags should be properly marked with the name of the runner, race bib #, and Km # point where the bags will be “dropped”. (Note: As the race will progress, we will also place water stations at Km # 15, #30, & 45)
  6. Cut-off time is eight (8) hours.
  7. Runners are encouraged to stay on the left side of the road, facing the incoming traffic. Some parts of the route are narrow and runners should always be attentive and vigilant of vehicles, in front and at their back.
  8. Runners are also encouraged to run in single file as the road will be busy with the traffic of vehicles.
  9. Ipods, MP3s, and “wires” are allowed. However, users should be attentive with their surroundings.
  10. As in the past PAU races, every finisher will receive individual memento/trophy, certificate of finish, and Finisher’s T-Shirt. Results of this race will be included in the rating/ranking among PAU runners for 2010.
  11. Integrity of the Race shall be upheld and respected.
  12. The spirit of ultra running is highly encouraged. Finish the race, encourage/help one another, develop friendship before, during & after the race, and have an ULTRA FUN!

Good luck!

3 Years

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Runners' Training, Running, Running For Cause, Sports Program, Ultramarathon10 Comments

Three years ago, on October 25, 2007, I started my 2nd blog in the Internet which was purely about running. My first blog, which was all about my activities as the Division Commander of the Philippine Army covering the Western Visayas area, was created on April 2007. As I started to post my running workouts in the said blog, I received a lot comments from my readers and such interest made me to find out runner-bloggers in the Internet. It appeared that there was only one runner-blogger in the Philippines at that time whose posts were concentrated about running/training for 5K & 10K distances and maintains a schedule of road races, of course, in the Philippines. It was The Bull Runner.

From my first post that was published as the Bald Runner, I started to recall my past training, road races, find out some pictures in my computer, and look for personalities/Icons of running in the past. And this blog evolved as what it is now.

1st Year

Basically, my posts were about my runs in the place where I was assigned as a Division Commander of the Philippine Army. There was a time that I was religiously posted my daily, weekly, and monthly running mileages and activities. The blog became my runner’s diary, so to speak. My preparation for the 2008 Pasig River Heritage Marathon and my comeback to marathon training was the gist of my running workouts. From a runner’s diary and a source of information about running, it evolved as a “critic” of the Road Races being conducted in Metro Manila and running events where I participated. This blog ultimately became a “feedback” mechanism of Road Races.

“Project Donate- A-Shoe” was born. A simple observation of runners at the Pasig River Heritage Marathon gave me the idea to make something happen to help those who are “less-fortunate” runners to change their dilapidated, worn-out/tattered, and old running shoes which they are still using in road races. This project became a success as runners from abroad are still actively contributing to this project and everything was history.

“Project Donate-A-Shirt was also born in tandem with the need to change the old shoes of runners. The families of Gawad Kalinga communities in Laoag City are still continuously receiving donated singlets and finisher’s shirts from runners. Some of the donated jackets & shirts from abroad (courtesy of Rick Gaston & Ben Gaetos) were given to my elite athletes and to other runners with potentials to become elite ones.

Elite Team Bald Runner was created and organized. After 3 years, the team is still intact and strong. Many joined but others got separated after one year. However, this elite team is still intact and train as a group.

BDM 102 as an idea/dream came into being. An experience finishing an ultramarathon trail race in August 2008 and witnessing the start of the 2008 Badwater Ultramarathon Race in Death Valley, California gave me the idea to conduct an ultramarathon race using the historic & world-wide known Bataan Death March route.  

“1,000-Km Club” was born. It is a tool to motivate each runner to accumulate his/her mileage with a goal in mind. BR’s “1,000-Km Club” black shirt is becoming a well-deserved “trophy” for each runner!

2nd Year

BR “Speed” Training at the Philsports ULTRA Oval Track started to attract recreational runners to become competitive ones. Most of the fast runners around had gone through this training. Due to its demand, we started to accept “newbies” ; transformed them to recreational runners; and later, as competitive runners. This “speed” training is still on-going on Tuesdays & Fridays (5:30 PM to 8:00 PM) at the Headquarters Philippine Army Grandstand/Parade Ground and on Wednesdays (same time on Tuesdays & Fridays) at the ULTRA Oval Track.

Designation as Chairman for Road Races of PATAFA. I accepted this designation in order to improve the quality of road races being held in the country but my position, in reality, became as an advisory position to the President of PATAFA.

BR’s Lectures and Clinics started as a pilot project to the Officers, Staff and Employees of Reinier Pacific with the cooperation of its President, Mr Amado Castro, Jr., who is a good friend and supporter of Elite Team Bald Runner. I could no longer count the number of corporate offices, government offices, and running groups where I was invited to conduct such lectures and clinic with the support of the members of the Elite Team Bald Runner.

BDM 102 Ultramarathon Race was a reality with the attendance of 82 “brave warriors” at the Starting Line on the evening of March 6, 2009 with 63 runners crossing the Finish Line within a cut-off time of 18 hours. It was a success and my first test as a Race Director in Ultra Races.

Creation of PAU (Philippine Association of Ultrarunners) as the National Sports Federation on Ultramarathon Races/Events in the country. In a few months, PAU was accepted as the 39th member-federation among the present 50 members of the International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU) and the 6th member in the ASIA Region.

3rd Year

5-Day Multi-Stage Run from Manila to Baguio City. I was able to do this. It was a 240-Km distance but I was able to prove that a runner in this kind of running adventure can “journalize” or inform and update his/her readers through the Internet on a near “real-time” situation.

Invitation to the 1st IAU ASIAN 100K Championship at the Jeju International Ultramarathon Race.  Alquin Bolivar and Frank Indapan of the Elite Team Bald Runner represented PAU and the country in this event. Bolivar was able to place 6th among the 500 participants and was able to set a national record of 9:06:15 hours for the said distance race.

2nd BDM 102 was again a success with more runners participating and finishing the race. More foreign runners participated as compared during its first edition. It is a proof that this ultramarathon event is already an international ultramarathon road race. For the local runners, it is considered as the “Holy Grail” of Running in the country.

PAU Road Races. After my trip and observation in the conduct of ultra road races in South Korea, I aggressively pushed for the conduct of monthly ultra races which started last May of this year. So far, 4 ultra races had been conducted (all the races were done outside Metro Manila) to include one ultra trail race where each race promoted “sports tourism”. More ultra runners had attended these races.

BR’s FREE Fun Runs. This is a new “alternative” way to entice “newbies” and recreational runners to enjoy a free road race, instead of paying high cost of registration fees.

BDM Lectures/Clinic is a pre-emptive tool to prevent casualties in running and at the same time, inform and train interested runners to participate in ultra road races and prepare them to the “gruelling” experiences of finishing the BDM 102.

More Mountain Trail Runs Abroad. I scheduled at least 2 ultra trail runs for me to participate for this year in the United States but I was only able to participate in the PCT’s Headlands 50-Mile Trail Run in Marin Headlands last July 17. The Dick Collin’s Firetrails 50-Mile Run last October 9 would have been my 2nd trail run for the year. Attending these mountain trail runs in the US was a way to learn how the Race Organizers conduct their trail races and find out their difficulty ratings.

4th Year; Future Plans and Beyond

Expand the BDM 102 and implement BDM 151. This will be the ultimate and the “only historic” ultramarathon race that will place the country in the world map of ultra running events.

1st PAU 50K Road Race National Championships and the 1st PAU 50K Mountain Trail Run National Championships.

1st PAU 24-Hour Endurance Run

PAU Road Races in Other Parts of the Country & Promote “Sports Tourism”

Conduct of More Multi-Day Adventure Runs Within the Country

More Running Lectures & Clinics

More Ultra Races Outside The Country

Develop More Elite Ultra Runners for Exposure to IAU-sanctioned Championship Races

Finally, I would like to extend my thanks to those who supported my advocacies in running for the past three years. I hope more of our citizens will be able to appreciate the benefits of running and other related sports. I still firmly believe that, it is through Sports that our Nation will become United and hope that “A Healthy Population is a Strong Nation”

See you on the roads and trails!

Running Lecture @ WRIGLEY Phils., Inc.

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Practice Runs, Runners' Training, Running, Sports ProgramLeave a comment

Mike Panlaqui, a passionate runner, is the HR Head of Wrigley Philippines, Inc and he is a regular visitor of this blog. If I can still remember right, he posted his first comment to this blogsite and sent me an e-mail when I was asking for journals and documents that will attest and support the claims of past multi-day runners of running along the different islands of the country. He revealed to me that he was once a part of the Planning Group of the GOMBURZA which was a group of priests and laymen who did those multi-day running events in the country.

It is unfortunate that he does not know if GOMBURZA had a daily journal on those multi-day runs. What he knew were the schedules and arrangements made for the runners before they started their multi-day runs from Manila.

In one of our exchanges of e-mails, he invited me to conduct a running lecture and clinic to the personnel of Wrigley Philippines’ Corporate Office which is located at the Bonifacio Global City. The running lecture and clinic was conducted o/a 4:00 PM on September 22, 2010. Mike’s overall objective in this lecture is for him to organize their corporate office’s running club and for its officers, staff, and personnel to adhere to a healthy and active lifestyle through running. 

Mike Panlaqui's Introduction to the Running Lecture
"George Sheehan" of the Philippines?

After the running lecture, the participants were encouraged to perform the different stretching exercises which we advised them to do before and after their running workout. The members of the Elite Team Bald Runner led and demonstrated the different stretching exercises.

Stretching Exercises After The Lecture

Aside from the stretching exercises, we also demonstrated to the participants important running “drills” which they could do before they do some “speed” training workouts at he Oval Track or during their running workouts. The lecture room was very spacious for the said “drills”.

Running "Drills" Inside The Lecture Room

What is good about the timing and scheduling of this corporate’s running lecture is that, Mike made it a point to conduct this activity during the company’s quarterly celebration of the employee’s birthday for the 3rd quarter of the year. It means that we were able to partake of the food and drinks for the party.

Group Picture For The Future "Wrigley's Running Club"

To conclude the event, Mike and the rest of the staff of the company had a group picture, presented to us some “gifts” and support to my Elite Team BR, and be a part of their quarterly birthday party celebration.

To Mike and Wrigley Phils, Inc, thank you very much for the warm reception and interest in spreading the benefits of running to your officers, staff and employees. Please continue supporting our elite athletes in long distance running.

1st Mt Pinatubo 50K Trail Challenge: Rules; Regulations & Reminders

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Races, Running, Sports Program, Trail Running, Ultramarathon7 Comments

Mt Pinatubo 50K Trail Challenge

October 9, 2010

Rules and Regulations

  1. The race starts at 5:00 AM of October 9, 2010 (Saturday) 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 ten (10) hours. Runners must be able to reach the turn-around point in 4:30 hours. Runners who will reach the turn-around point in more than 4:30 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. However, they will receive a special certificate for finishing 25 kilometers.
  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 7-8 kilometers. There will be Aid Station at Km#7; Km#14; and Km#21 and these same Aid Stations will serve at Km# 29; Km#36; and Km#43 (on the way back). These Aid Stations will be 4X4 vehicles manned by Race Marshals.
  5. The Aid Stations will have water, sports drinks, cola drinks and limited food supply. The foods served will be chocolate bites, salted biscuits, boiled eggs, boiled banana & sweet potatoes.
  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. The fee for a guide is P 500.00 (optional). 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. Each runner must be able to register to the marshal-recorder upon his/her arrival.
  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.
  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 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.
  20. Top 3 Men and Ladies will receive trophies. Every Finisher will receive Individual Trophy/Memento; Finisher’s T-Shirt; and a Certificate of Achievement. 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. (Do I have to tell and remind you about this every time we have a PAU race?)

Good luck and Have FUN!!!!

BDM 102K Ultramarathon Clinic

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Runners' Training, Running, Sports Program, Ultramarathon9 Comments

In preparation for the 2011 Bataan Death March 102K Ultramarathon Run, the Bald Runner’s Events Management will conduct a FREE Ultramarathon Clinic starting on the month of October 2010. This clinic will consist of lectures on related topics about ultramarathon; “tips” and guides to finish the race and the conduct “test runs” on the actual route of the race. The following are the details of the clinic:

WHAT: FREE BDM 102K Ultramarathon Clinic

WHO: A “Must” for 1st time applicants for the event. A runner-participant must have finished a Marathon Race with at least 6 hours or better as finish time. BDM 102 “veterans” are not required to attend the lectures. However, they are encouraged to join the “test runs”.

WHEN: Every 1st & 3rd Friday of the month. From 6:00 PM-7:30 PM. The first clinic/lecture will be held on Friday, October 1, 2010.

WHERE: 1st Floor Lecture Room, Philippine Army Officer’s Club, Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City

ATTIRE: Casual/Athletic or Sports Attire

The lecture will start at exactly 6:00 PM.

Running Clinic @ AIR 21

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Runners' Training, Running, Sports Program, UltramarathonLeave a comment

 Days before the conduct of the PAU’s P2P 70K Run in Ilocos Norte, Frederick Gabriel and Vic Viola of takbo.ph approached me with the request for their company to conduct a running lecture and clinic to their staff and employees numbering to about 200. It was only during these conversations that I have found out that these two ultra runners and consistent PAU runners are connected with the company called AIR 21. Their request was very noble that it was worth making it as a priority because of the number of participants plus the interest they put into the importance of running as part of the company’s sports program and the company’s program to look for the welfare of their subordinates through running as part of their active lifestyle. 

In addition, one of the objectives of the running lecture and clinic at AIR 21 is for everybody at the said company to know the basic and scientific way of training in running. It is a part of the company’s training and preparation for their participation in this year’s October 10 A Run For Pasig River. I was informed that almost all the staff and employees will be joining the said running event. Days before the conduct of the lecture & clinic, I have already the impression that the owners are sports-minded and health buffs. (Note: Mr Lina is a golf player while his wife has progressively finished her first 5K run) 

The lecture and clinic was decided to be conducted on the Company’s Health & Medical Expo Day which was held on the Birthday of Mrs Sylvia Lina, co-owner of the company and wife of Mr Alberto Lina, President & Owner of the Company. The lecture and the first session of actual running was conducted at 3:00 PM of September 6, 2010 at the Company’s Cargohaus near the NAIA Airport Complex. 

Birthday of the 1st Lady of the Company

 I was impressed that the owners of the company, Mr & Mrs Lina and their two daughters attended the lecture and the practical part and actual demonstration of the stretching exercises, running drills, and a 30-minute run. 

Lecture Room Filled With Staff & Employees

 The lecture room was “jampacked” with the staff and employees of the company that most of them remained standing during the 1 1/2 hours of lecture and open forum. Basically, the lecture covered the “Why’s” of Running, Steps To Follow, Laws of Training in Running, Practical Tips In Running, Phases of Training, and lastly, Etiquette In Running. Some concerns and apprehensions from the participants were answered during the Open Forum. 

Lecture On Running Basics & Principles

 The lectured was followed with actual involvement of the participants in the conduct of stretching exercises, running drills, and a 30-minute steady run. The clinic is scheduled to be conducted every Monday afternoon up to October 10 with the hope that every participant will be able to finish the scheduled 3K and 5K runs on race day.

The following pictures will best describe the activity on September 6 with Mr Alberto Lina; Mrs Sylvia Lina; their daughters and the rest of the staff and employees of AIR 21.

Mrs Sylvia Lina & Children Listening To The Lecture
Mr Lina & Daughters Preparting For the Stretching Exercises
Almost 100 Staff & Employees Joined The Clinic
Leadership By Example Is The Key To A Healthy & Progressive Company
Cool-Down Exercises After A 30-Minute Steady Run

For a related story about the AIR 21 Running Lecture and Clinic and more pictures of the event, please visit www.lina-group.com.

FREE Fun Runs

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Places to Run, Practice Runs, Races, Runners' Training, Running, Sports Program, Ultramarathon

Why PAY if you can run at “race pace” for FREE?

The Bald Runner’s Events Management, in cooperation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, will be offering FREE Fun Runs to everybody! Yes, these fun runs will be free—no race bibs, no singlets, no printed race results, no Finisher’s Shirts and no registration fees. But there will be a digital clock or chronograph watch at the Start/Finish Line and it will be the responsibility of each runner to see, hear, and remember his/her finish time. All you need to bring are your running shoes and your running attire. Runners could bring also their respective hydration system/bottles during the race, however, there will be minimal number of water stations along the race route.

Interested runner-participants just simply assemble at the Starting Line before 6:00 AM of the scheduled date of event and the start of the fun run is set at exactly 6:00 AM. Runners will be guided by the members of the Elite Team Bald Runner during the runs. There will be no marshals as the route will be easy to follow through directional signs and kilometer markings.

For documentation purposes, each finisher will receive a Finisher’s Certificate for FREE!

These fun runs will be a good training runs for “newbies” and the youth (18 years old & below) who would simulate a road race and for them to develop confidence in paid road races. As for the competitive runners who would not like to spend their hard-earned money in road races, they can do their “race pace” or “tempo run” workouts in these fun runs.

 These fun runs are conceived to be conducted at least twice a month on Sunday mornings. The first Fun Run will  be a 5-mile or 8-kilometer run inside the roads of Camp Aguinaldo and the 2nd Fun Run will be a 2-mile run or 3.2K run at the Philippine Army Grandstand & Parade Ground. The fun runs will start promptly at 6:00 AM during Sundays. In Camp Aguinaldo, the start/finish area is infront of the Grandstand at the GHQ Parade Ground. These places have ample free parking spaces for the vehicles of the runners.

After each fun run, there will be a brief lecture and open forum for 30 minutes to interested runners. These fun runs should be terminated within the period of two hours.

The first Fun Run will be held at Camp Aguinaldo o/a 6:00 AM of October 17, 2010. There will be no limit in the number of runners in this fun run. However, all runners should be at the starting area at least 30 minutes before the start time. The 2nd Fun Run will be a 3K/5K run at the Philippine Army Grandstand o/a 6:00 AM of October 24, 2010.  Schedule of future Fun Runs will be announced in this blog.

If plans will materialize, future Fun Runs will be conducted at The Fort/Global City, MOA Grounds, and Roxas/Macapagal Boulevard.

These Fun Runs will reach a maximum distance of 10 miles or 16 kilometers and with a minimum distance of 3 kilometers.

Running should be made simple and free! Running should be FUN!

Running is for EVERYBODY!

(Note: Race Walkers & Brisk Walkers are also invited to join these Fun Runs)

Decision Is Final

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Race Results, Races, Running, Running For Cause, Sports Program, Ultramarathon3 Comments

1. Weeks and days before last year’s BDM 102 (1st edition),  I included a warning in my rules and regulation that “cheaters” will be disqualified. Some of the runners made a comment why I have to include such instructions in their race packets as according to them this warning was not necessary. I just smiled and did not answer their comments. However, on race day, I was a witness of so many cases of “cheating” among the runners. Did I approach them and tell them on their faces that I saw them cheating during the race? NO! But I remembered their names and faces. In my RD’s Report, I admitted that there were cheating as I personally observed plus the fact that I received also information from my marshals, staff, and from the other runners and their respective support crew. Most of my marshals then were the members of my Elite Team Bald Runner and I really believed in their reports. Their reports were collaborated with the information coming from other runners and their respective support crew. I did not expose them but they know that I know that they cheated. It is for this reason that I declared the Results of the 1st BDM 102 as Unofficial. Case closed.

2. This year’s BDM 102 was a perfect race because there were no reported cheating or making some “shortcuts” of the route as we implimented time stations/checkpoints along the way where each runner were listed with their elapsed time/split time as they passed in many points along the route. Those who were reported to have allegedly cheated on the 1st edition were able to redeem themselves in this year’s BDM 102 by registering a much-improved finish times as compared in last years edition. Did I congratulate them for redeeming themselves in this year’s race? NO!

3. In the 1st PAU 50K Run in Tanay, Rizal last May 9, 2010, one of my marshals reported that one of the runners rode a vehicle with the intention of declaring himself as DNF but he alighted from the vehicle after riding a considerable distance and resumed his race until he reached the finish line. I removed the name of this runner from the Official List of Finishers in the said race and banned him from my road races. This runner contacted me and questioned my decision why I had to remove his name from the list. I stand on my decision based from the reports of my marshals and collaborated by other runners. The runner did not insist to defend himself and I told him that he is banned from my races. Case closed. Most of the finishers in this race knew his name and one of his running friends tried to defend the culprit but I just listened to his reasons and appeal. Did I expose his name? NO, but I kept on informing in my blog and in my race instructions that “cheaters are disqualified in my races and they forever banned in my future races”.

4. After the “P2P” PAU 70K Run in Ilocos Norte, I received reports from my marshals that some of the runners did not pass in one of the checkpoints where each runner must get a string necklace. To be specific, some runners did not pass along the trail road that goes to the Bangui Windmill Project and my marshals potively identified the runners. In another incident, one of my marshals reported also that one runner was seen alighting from a “jeep/multicab” some hundred yards away from the Finish Line. This runner was seen by tricycle drivers in the locality coming out from the vehicle and my marshal overheard some unsavory comments from them due to the incident that they have seen. My marshal positively identified the runner from the pictures I’ve taken at the Finish Line. Before I left Laoag City, I started receiving reports, stories, and observations from the finishers/runners and such reports supported the observations/reports of my Race Marshals. These additional information collaborated with the reports coming from my race marshals.

5. Do I have to call the attention of these reported “cheaters” and let them explain? NO. The reports of my race marshals are enough to pin down these people as I have delegated to them the authority to make sure that the race is conducted honestly and with its integrity intact. These marshals are members of my Elite Team Bald Runner and they know the “do’s and dont’s” in conducting road races. These are the very same people who have been my staff in my road races for the past two & half years and I personally know them since the time I was designated as the Project Director of the DND-AFP Gintong Pangarap for Marathon six years ago! These elite runners do not make-up or create stories of cheating. For what purpose? Bottomline, I trust my elite athletes and they did their job well in my races.

6. Now, ask me how do I feel with these reports of cheating in my races? I am already fed-up and angry about such acts. For the past two years, I am frustrated that there are still reports of cheating in my races (except for 2nd BDM 102) and this is an act of disrespect to the sports, to the Race Director and its staff/marshals, and to the rest of the runners competing in my races. Let us not be legalistic on this matter. But if these runners want to challenge the reports of my marshals, then the burden of proof rest on the shoulders of those who think that they should be innocent or not guilty of cheating.

7. My exposure of ultrarunning events in South Korea and United States as a runner-participant gave me the confidence to conduct more ultra road races in the country. In those countries, I’ve observed that the Race Organizers do not deploy race marshals along the route and there are no reports of cheating among the runners. It is my objective to reach this kind of situation and level of perfection in the conduct of ultra races where every runner should be honest and responsible for their actions. But somewhere towards this goal, a “wake-up” call is needed to remind the runners that I am serious in seeing to it that the integrity of a race should always be intact.

8. If you think I am gaining from these road races financially and for popularity, you are wrong! The registration fees we are collecting from each race are not enough to support the race. We are bringing our logistics from Manila to Bataan, Pampanga, Rizal, and Ilocos Norte and the effort we give just to ensure that each event is successful is not personally rewarding to us as the Race Organizer. The planning, preparation, coordination, bus trips, stress, and discussions among my staff and marshals were all very tiring as if we are also preparing as runners for the race. As you know, our PAU Races are not supported by corporate names or government sports institutions and most of our additional support come from the donations of the runners themselves and good friends who believe in my advocacies. So, I am appealing to everybody that each of the runners of my races should always maintain the integrity of the race and should give respect to us as the Race Organizer and to the other runners. Always remember that we organize these ultrarunning races because we simply have the love and passion to promote the sports. On the other hand, popularity for what end? None! I am already contented as a runner-blogger and enjoying my retirement with a plan to run more miles/kilometers here and to other countries. My blog serves as my one and only marketing tool for my races. At wala kayong makikitang product ads sa blog ko!

9. Now, if you are banned from my races, then that is my decision and I will stick to the reports of my marshals. I really don’t care the implication and result of my decision. My staff and I will continue promoting ultrarunning in this country and spreading the “good news” about running to include honesty in races. Going back to what I always said when I started the BDM 102—“It is better to conduct a race with only 10 participants who are honest than getting as much as thousands of runners in a race which is tainted with dishonest runners”. Lastly, our races define what you are made of, in terms of your attitude, character, personality, and physical and mental capabilities.

10. This “issue” boils down to Integrity, Respect and Obedience. All my races are covered with Rules and Regulations/Instruction and all runners who join my races abide by these rules and instructions. A runner in my races submits himself/herself to these rules from the starting line up to the time he/she crosses the finish line of the race. However, if he/she commits infraction or violation of any of my rules & instructions during the race, then I have the authority to decide to disqualify such runner even without informing the runner in question. It is harsh but, in simple terms, that is the Bald Runner’s Rule!