Tag: Running

2nd Week Of Training: Mt Fuji Mountain Race

On By kingofpotsIn Hiking, Insights, Jogging, Nutrition, Pictures, Places to Run, Runners' Training, Running, Sports Program, Trail Running, Travel1 Comment

June 19-25, 2017

June 19, Monday, was a well-deserved REST Day for me after my weekend “back-to-back” training runs which culminated in a 10.5 mile recon run in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija & Fort Magsaysay. The heat of the sun on those exposed single-track trail put a lot of exhaustion and fatigue to my body system. I usually have a complete rest on this day by eating and having more time to sleep on Sunday and Monday evenings.

This week will be my first full week of training from Monday up to Sunday. On Tuesday, the training schedule was for me to do a 1:30-hour Endurance Run on a trail and I selected my Backyard’s Loop #2 Trail as my course. This course is what I fondly called as the “Brown Mountain” course which is a wide-dirt road and eventually turns into a single-track trail to the foot/peak of Mt Quadrante and Mt Tambong/Mt Maniwalan. I was able to cover a distance of 7.17 miles for 1:31+hours with an average speed of 12:42 minutes per mile. I observed that my run was very comfortable because of the cooler air as I started my run very early in the morning, before the sun rises.

On Wednesday, I had my first “hill repeats” or Interval Training workout. The total time for this workout, to include the warm-up run; hill repeats & rest between interval; and the cool-down run, would result to 1:30 hours. I did my “hill repeats” in a place where the housing subdivision was discontinued and the place was all mine in the early morning as there were no people in the area. It was my first time to feel the shortness of breath and the feeling of being dizzy as if I am going to have a “heart stroke” after I did my 4th repetition. I have to adjust my pace but I tried my best to push harder as I reach the highest elevation/end of my hill repeats in every repetition. I have to bring up my knees higher; swing my arms faster and wider; and breath as hard as I can. The total distance that I covered was 6.78 miles but I felt that I was able to force my heart and lungs to a higher level of exertion than I had before!

2nd Week Mt Fuji Training 00
Endurance Runs @ Backyard’s Loop #2 (Mt Tambo/Maniwalan At The Background)

On Thursday, I had my Recovery Run/Easy Run for one hour where I covered a distance of 5.20 miles. This was done on a paved road where the first half was slightly going uphill and then back to where I started.

On Friday, it was another 1:30-hour Endurance Run which I decided to have at the same course that I did last Tuesday (at my Backyard’s Loop #2). The same as of Tuesday’s run, I have to run up to the mountain for 45-46 minutes and then turn-around towards the starting line for the second-half of my workout. To my surprise, I was ahead or faster by 2:30 minutes when I reached the turn-around point during my run last Tuesday and I just continued my run for more elevation gain for the rest of my time before turning around for my last 45 minutes back to where I started. I was able to cover a distance of 7.63 miles on this workout!

On Saturday, I had my second “hill repeats” session, the same session/workout that I had last Wednesday but the total number of hours for this workout is 2:30 hours. Since it was the schedule of one of my PAU races (Mariveles To Bagac 50K Ultra Run), I have to think of a way where I can insert my training workout while I am supervising this race. Instead of “hill repeats” of going up the hill and then back down the hill, I improvised my “hill repeats” by continuously going up towards the peak or highest point of the course. So, I brought my vehicle to the highest point of the course, parked it, and then I started my warm-up run by going down the mountain for 40 minutes on an easy pace. From the point where I made my turn-around, I returned up to the mountain doing my “hill repeats”. After 1:20 hours, I continued my run and tried to catch up with the runners of my race. After 2:30 hours I was able to cover a distance of 13 miles. Since the road was not as steep as my “hill repeats” on Wednesday, I felt I did not push too hard and felt that I was still strong after the desired number of hours of my workout for the day had elapsed.

On Sunday, the goal was to practice running and hiking on a higher elevation gain for 4 hours which is a good equivalent of “double-traverse” to my Backyard’s Loop #3 (Mt Roosevelt Traverse). It was also a workout to train for my hydration and nutritional needs in longer runs with more elevation gain. I was in the company of PAU runners who just finished in the previous day’s 50K run! We had some rests and “pit stops” along the route but we were able to make it in 5 hours for a total distance of 13.3 miles. It was nice to be back on this course which I missed for the past 4 weeks. We had some delays on our uphill climb due to the growing tall grasses and plants that partly cover the trail. On our way back for our 2nd traverse, the sun was already hot as most of the trail is exposed to the sun. We slowed down due to the heat and I had to submerge myself to a flowing stream, 3 miles before the finish line! We ingested some solid foods and soda drinks at the turn-around point (Mile 6.6).

2nd Week Mt Fuji Training 01
At The Peak Of Mt Roosevelt With PAU Runners

Everyday, I have to force myself to sleep 8-9 hours every night and after my “hill repeats” sessions, I had to take a nap in the afternoon for some rest. My nutrition intake for the week consists of ordinary Filipino foods and fruits.

The following are the totals for this week:

Total Duration (Time): 13:40 Hours

Total Distance: 52.8 Miles/84.48 Kilometers

Total Elevation Gain: 21,795 Feet

Elevation Gain Per Mile: 412.78 Feet

Lace up and go run!

Official Result: 2nd Mariveles To Bagac 50K Ultra Marathon Race (BDM Km 0 To Km 0)

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Places to Run, Race Results, Races, Running, Sports Program, Travel, Ultra Marathon, UltramarathonLeave a comment

2nd Mariveles To Bagac 50K Ultra Marathon Race (BDM Km 0 To Km 0)

Start: 4:00 AM June 24, 2017 @ Bataan Death March Shrine, Mariveles, Bataan

Finish: 2:00 PM June 24, 2017 @ Bataan Death March Kilometer Post #0, Bagac, Bataan

Number of Starters: 26

Number of Finishers: 26

Percentage Of Finish: 100%

2017 Mariveles To Bagac
Starters & Finishers Of The Event

RANK         NAME                    TIME (Hrs)

  1. Nel Valero (Champion, CR/Adjusted Course) —-5:37:11
  2. Joseph Diones (1st Runner-Up, Overall) ——-5:45:01
  3. Ace Rodriguez (2nd Runner-Up, Overall) —–5:53:55
  4. June Gonzales —————-6:01:21
  5. Rod Losabia ——————-6:13:23
  6. Bryan Taroma —————6:23:36
  7. Hope Jhon Brazil ———–6:30:31
  8. Tess Leono (Champion, Female) ——–6:40:35
  9. Ray Casimero ——————6:42:15
  10. Richard Gy ———————6:43:40
  11. Felisisimo Gura ————–6:46:54
  12. Rosemarie Austria (1st Runner-Up, Female)—-7:02:59
  13. Loui Cotejar ——————-7:05:35
  14. Art Sanchez ——————- 7:27:39
  15. Adrian De Mesa ————- 7:27:53
  16. Emma Libunao (2nd Runner-Up, Female) —— 7:36:50
  17. Remy Caasi (Female) ——-7:36:51
  18. Marlon Santos —————-7:37:07
  19. Kim Jason Pinili ————-7:51:25
  20. Brady Yandoc —————- 7:53:30
  21. Jonas Olandria ————– 8:18:59
  22. Danilo Reyes —————– 8:19:14
  23. Ener Calbang —————- 8:33:46
  24. Anna Odessa Albaracin (Female) —- 8:41:25
  25. Fer De Leon —————–8:47:21
  26. Jeje Ajusto ——————- 9:07:15

Congratulations To All The Finishers!

1st Week of Training: Mt Fuji Mountain Race

On By kingofpotsIn Hiking, Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Practice Runs, Runners' Training, Running, Sports Program, Trail Running, Travel, Ultra Trail Running, UltramarathonLeave a comment

June 12-18, 2017

After I have finished the  4th & last Marathon Race of the BR’s Quad Marathon, I did not run for two days, Tuesday & Wednesday, to give rest to my tired body. I simply ate and slept for these two days with some stretching to my legs and body. These two days officially started my training for the Mt Fuji Mountain Race which will be held on July 28, 2017.

Starting on this week, I started to shift/change my training using the time duration of my workout as my goal/objective for every workout, instead of planning to run a certain distance. For the past training cycles, I have been concentrating on the number of miles I have covered every week and it is worth a try to be counting on the number of hours as the priority data for my workouts. Mileage will be secondary data to be considered and recorded.

On Thursday, I had a one hour recovery run on a flat paved road with an Average Pace of 12:09 minutes per mile. My GPS Watch registered a distance of 5.02 miles. It was a very relaxing pace where I would be running and talking with one of my former elite athletes with Team Bald Runner who happens to be a runner-soldier of the Philippine Army. I thought it was an easy and relaxing one hour run but the data in my GPS Watch registered otherwise. It appeared that I was exerting so much effort on the last half of my workout.

On Friday, I made sure to have a slower and more relaxing one hour recovery run where I registered a distance of 4.95 miles and with a slower Average Pace of 12:23 minutes per mile but the workout was done on the streets surrounding Fort Bonifacio with lots of rolling hills. The total elevation gain was 1,816 feet and was able to register an Average BPM of 132. I guess, I was too fast in this workout as a result of my deep-tissue massage the night before this workout.

On Saturday, the schedule was to run 1:30:00 hours on the trails. I had my run in my backyard/Playground’s Loop #1 which is an “out and back” route up to the distance where my GPS Watch registered a time of 46 minutes! This was my first trail run since I’ve finished my Quad Marathons. I call this workout as an “Endurance Run” which I am training for as my regular pace in all my trail running races/events. Having said that, these Endurance Runs will be the “bread and butter” in all my weekly workouts. I was able to finish a distance of 6.43 miles with an Average Pace of 14:14 minutes per mile. The total elevation gain is 2,011 feet with an elevation loss of 1,880 feet. My Average BPM is 150 with a Maximum of 161. I think I was running with a faster pace considering that the course has lots of steep hills.

loop-11.jpg
Saturday Run @ Backyard’s Loop #1

In the afternoon of Saturday, I had some strengthening exercises which I finished in 30 minutes which are geared towards my core!

On Sunday, I was invited by a friend to recon the proposed course of a new trail route where the event will be held later this year. It was supposed to be a 2-3-hour trail run but we finished the run in 5:05:07 hours covering a distance of 10.7 miles with a total elevation gain of 7,336 feet  and a elevation loss of 7,247 feet. We were running the first half of the course until we hiked towards the peak of Mt Mapait which has an elevation of 1,137 feet and power hiked the last half of the course. Due to the exposed nature of the trail from the heat of the sun, we were exhausted and had to make a lot of stops on flowing streams to cool off our bodies. The Average Pace in this workout was 28:26 minutes per mile (to include rests) with an Average BPM of 129.

Palayan 42.jpg
Sunday’s Recon Run & Hike In Palayan City/Fort Magsaysay

For four days, I was able to register 8 hours and 39 minutes duration of run, covering a distance of 27.1 miles. The total elevation gain is 11,176 feet. Which means that for every mile that I covered, I was able to get an elevation of 412 feet!

Week #1 Summary:

Number Of Hours: 8:39 hours

Distance: 27.1 miles

Total Elevation Gain: 11,176 feet

Elevation Gain Per Mile: 412 feet

This is just the beginning of my training cycle and I am happy that I am having fun without any “niggles” or extreme pain on my legs or body. I am hoping that I will be stronger and faster next week!

Lace up and go run!

 

 

Epilogue: 1st BR’s Quad Marathons

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Multi-Day Run, Pictures, Places to Run, Races, Running, Sports Program, Travel, Ultra Marathon, Ultra Running2 Comments

Having known an event which was experienced and finished by an ultra running friend in one of his trips/visits in the United States, I thought of the idea that local Pinoy runners can also do such an event without even going out of the country. What is really important in this kind of event is to have a period of 4 days which are declared non-working holidays and the place where one can have a varied routes for four marathons in four days. Of course, there is also the need to have some runners who are brave enough to try and experience what it is like to run one marathon distance each day for four consecutive days.

I though of my birthplace, Laoag City, as the place to conduct this event because it has a lot of road networks that converge to the center of the city. Having been familiar to the road networks in the place, I decided to have this event held in the city. There is no harm in taking the risk of conducting this event even if there is only one or two runners.

Laoag City
Landmark Of Laoag City (Photo by May Santos)

A simple Facebook Event Page was created just to inform the “Public” and my FB friends about this event. And I did not personally contact each and every ultra running friend to be invited to join this event. As I said before, I create an event and I let runners join my event in their personal volition. It is inherent that most of my friends were excited to find out that this Quad Marathons is a new event and most of them signified to join or simply clicked the button “Interested”. But knowing the real attitude of the Local Runners and even PAU Members, who are really good friends, I did not expect much that most of these people will be joining this event. The bottom line here is, I really don’t care!

After a simple coordination with the LGU of Ilocos Norte and the Provincial PNP of Ilocos Norte, the event was a GO! And the rest is history!

It has proven once again that Local Pinoy Runners can match the endurance and stamina of other runners in other countries. The Quad Marathons can be done even in simple logistics and needs for the runners. Additionally, it is proven once again that I don’t need Corporate Sponsorship if I want an idea to be implemented and put into action. To prove a point, the Bataan Death March 102K Ultra Marathon, the event that started all these “craziness” in ultra running in the country, had survived for almost 10 years without any Corporate Sponsorship!

I would like to thank the following ultra running friends: Dondon Talosig from Tuguegarao, Cagayan; Gibo Malvar from Piddig/Sarrat, Ilocos Norte/Paranaque, Metro Manila; Rod Losabia from Metro Manila; Tess Leono from Metro Manila; Rose Betonio from Metro Manila; Kathleen Piñero from Metro Manila; and Laurice Rogel from Metro Manila who were the “Pioneers” of this event. These runner-finishers will receive appropriate Awards & Commendations for their feat during the 2018 BDM & PAU Get Together Party. I would also thank May Santos from Marikina, Metro Manila for being the Recorder/Marshal/Official Photographer of the event. I would like also to give thanks and commend the support given by Numeriano De La Cruz and Joaquin Bordado of Team Kimat Running Club of Ilocos Norte. Lastly, to my Personal Staff and the Support Crew of each runner who made sure that all the Logistics/Administrative needs were made available during the event.

As a runner-participant of this event, I was able to prove my running philosophy in order to inspire others to run—“If I can do it, then, you can do it, too!” If want to create an idea, make sure you can do it so that you are a reliable and consistent person!

Day 4 Paoay
Turn-Around Point On 4th Day (Photo By May Santos)

As per my observation on the runner-participants, I could see that each of us have that tendency to be competitive with one another even if we were having fun, enjoying the environment & scenery of the route, having a “bonding time” among friends, and with the experience of being attacked by street dogs in some of the populated areas along the route. Each runner has a different style of dealing with these street dogs—some would shout back at the barking dogs; some would simply run faster away from the attacking dogs; some would bring a stick to ward off the dogs; and some would just blind the dogs with their powerful handheld lights. However, I would simply ignore and never looked at the dogs when I would pass infront of them. But the most effective way to prevent the dogs from biting you is to NEVER use any headphone or play your music/ playlist during this kind of event. I should know because in one of my adventure runs, I was bitten by a street dog while listening to my playlist on my iPod! Also, one of the runners have learned some lessons in marathon racing where one should be light and simple if you want to have a faster time in a marathon race!

Oh, yes, I was the official “sweeper” of the event to make sure that all my runners would be able to finish each event within the cut-off time of 6 hours and 30 minutes. I am glad all the runners had successfully finished the race! I guess, in my races, that is one of the duties of the Race Director!

Personally, this is how I felt during the period of four days. I think the rest of the runners would have to agree with me on my feelings. Before the start of the event, I was not sure if I would be able to have the stamina and endurance to finish the whole event. After I finished the first day Marathon, I was exhausted due to the hot and humid weather even if it was then in the evening and early morning. I was already thinking of a reason or alibi where I would simply sit back in my car and supervise the runners for the remaining 3 marathon races. But I though that ones personality is being tested here in this event. So, I was not at all excited for the 2nd day event. However, after 1-2 kilometers of running on the 2nd day’s route, we were met by cold air and winds coming from the mountains east of Laoag City and it was very refreshing. The cooler temperature made us faster to finish the event on the 2nd day. On the start of the 3rd day, I was silent and apprehensive as I told to the runners that the course will be darker due to the absence of street lights along the route and some portions have road constructions. But the runners did not complain and they registered a faster time, too!

After we finished the third marathon, I brought all the runners for a day tour along the last day marathon course and they were able to familiarize some locations and the overall elevation profile of the route. Aside from being the last event, knowing the course on a walk/drive-through boosted their morale to finally get things done immediately! The experience running in the rain for about 10-12 minutes at Km 5-6 was really exhilarating and enjoyable! There were no complaints from the runners and we finished the event with a much faster time.

For the first two days, we used the front portion of the Provincial Capitol of Ilocos Norte as the Start/Finish area since we did not cross the Laoag/Padsan Bridge or River. But for the two remaining days,we changed the location of the Start & Finish at the LAOAG Landmark at the foot of the Laoag City Bridge. The variety of the locations of the Start and Finish gave a very nice documentation on the exposure of Laoag City and the Province of Ilocos Norte.

These are my assessment and conclusion on this event: First, it takes a veteran marathoner or an ultra runner to finish this event. Two, even considering the difficulty of the elevation on each course, the tendency of the human body to be faster and stronger as the event progresses from day one to day four. Three, since the Aid Stations are the Support Vehicles of the runners which are mobile that “leap-frog” ahead of the runners, one has to be very good in his/her nutrition and hydration strategy. And lastly, our human body is a wonderful God-given “machine” that has a way of recovering from pain & exhaustion through proper nutrition and rest & recovery within a span of 24 hours.

Baliw
Congratulations To Everybody! (Photo By May Santos)

Next edition will the same schedule as we had this year where the last day event culminates with the Independence Day of the country.

Once again, congratulations to all the runners, support crew & staff, and to our volunteers/marshals.

Lace up and run!

 

4th & Last Day: Quad Marathons

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Marathon Race, Marathon Race Results, Pictures, Places to Run, Race Results, Races, Running, Sports Program, TravelLeave a comment

We were all excited that we have reached the Final Marathon for this event. Nobody was complaining about any aches, pain, “niggles”, or any injury from the runners. At least, all the runners had a chance to conduct a walk & drive-thru along the route during the day after the 3rd day Marathon. They would know what to expect and come up with their own “landmarks” with regards to distances and where exactly the locations of those rolling elevations on the course.

The runners would start at the LAOAG Sign Landmark which is located at the Laoag City Park and then goes to the Gilbert Bridge towards San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte. Once the runners cross the bridge, they have to turn RIGHT on the first intersection where the road leads to the Laoag City International Airport. Once the runners reach the new “roundabout” in front of the Northwestern University, they have to turn LEFT and run along the Laoag-Suba-Paoay Road until they reach the Poblacion of Paoay, Ilocos Norte. From Paoay, the runners would run one loop of the street block where the Paoay Church is located and then turn-around and go back to the Starting Line.

Day 4 Before The Start
Group Picture Before The Start (Photo Courtesy of May Santos)

This running route is very memorable to me because it was my training playground for my first Marathon Race in the early 80s while I was assigned in Ilocos Norte as a young First Lieutenant of the Philippine Army. I would do my daily runs from Laoag City to the Suba Golf Driving Range (now, Plaza Del Norte) and then back to Laoag City for a good 20K LSD run. For my hill workouts, I would run along the road from the Golf Driving Range up to the beach where the famous Laoag Sand Dunes are located ( film shooting locations of the movies “Panday”, “Himala”, and the “4th of July” where Tom Cruise is the lead actor).

The course is relatively flat on the first 10K (6.2 miles) until the road goes uphill in front of the Plaza Del Norte and before the Golf Course which is only about 100 meters long. This is the famous Start Area of the yearly North Start 10K Run which was discontinued in the early 90s after almost 15 years of existence. This year, I have thought of reviving this event after I made a consultation/agreement with the then Race Organizer of the event who is in his 80s! From the peak of the uphill portion, it goes downhill for about 500 meters and then goes slightly up for a rolling elevation of about 1 kilometer. Once you see the view of the Paoay Lake on your left, everything goes downhill and flattens to the next 5-6 Kilometers up to the famous Paoay Church which is the turn-around point of the course. The runners take one loop of the street block around the Paoay Church and then goes back to the Starting Line.

The last Marathon Race started at 11:40 PM of Sunday, June 11, 2017 after some reminders and group pictures. I decided this time to be the “sweeper” again to make sure that everybody would be able to finish the race within the cut-off time of 6.5 hours. As we reached the Km 5 point, it rained for about 10-12 minutes and all of us were wet but it made our running environment cooler and made our body temperature lowered. The feeling of having your body perspiration mix with the cold rain is very refreshing!

Personally, I had the feeling of nostalgia and happiness while running on this course because I could memorize every inch or meter of the road! It is that feeling of happiness that I am finally back on this course/route after 37 years that greatly contributed on my being a passionate runner up to this time. Except for the 2nd Day Marathon (Laoag-Sarrat-Piddig route which is the official MILO Half-Marathon route), I have never ran along the 1st Day and 3rd Day routes.

I have never told to the 7 runners how deeply happy and elated while I was running with them on this Quad Marathon along the route of the 4th Day Marathon. I only told them that this was my favorite route when I would run while I was assigned in the province. I never told them that I had been running with some of the runners then in the City and that I’ve been “coached” by a Project Gintong Alay athlete, who is a local resident of Laoag City, for the Marathon distance and personally massaged by him every after our LSD runs along this route. This local elite running athlete would become a Champion of some of the Marathon Races in Metro Manila but what made him very popular was the fact that he was able to break the the course record for a Half-Marathon Race in the country! So, for the six hours that I’ve been running this course, I would recall all those times and the persons that had been a part of my running life while I was in Ilocos Norte. I will tell more about the “stories” among and about the 7 runners in this event in my “Epilogue” of this event.

Day 4 Finish Pic
Group Picture After Finishing The Race (Photo Courtesy of May Santos)

The following is the result of the 4th and Last Day Marathon of this event:

RANK     NAME                TIME (Hrs)

  1. Dondon Talosig ——4:50:25
  2. Gibo Malvar ———- 4:51:03
  3. Rod Losabia ———- 5:10:12
  4. Tess Leono (F) ——- 5:22:48
  5. Rose Betonio (F) —- 5:34:06
  6. Reese Rogel (F) —— 6:11:36
  7. Jovie Narcise/BR —— 6:11:49

After I have personally awarded the Finisher’s Medal and Shirt to everybody, we had our Group Picture and we congratulated each other for being the Official “Pioneers” of this event which is considered as the First Quad Marathons in the country.

Day 4 Finish Flag
Finishing The Quad Marathons Was In Time With The 119th Independence Day Celebration

What a historic way to celebrate our country’s Independence Day!

Congratulations to the Quad Marathons “Pioneers”!

3rd Day: Quad Marathons

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Marathon Race, Multi-Day Run, Pictures, Places to Run, Race Results, Races, Running, TravelLeave a comment

At 11:20 PM of Saturday, June 10, 2017, all the runners had to transfer to the LAOAG Landmark at the Laoag City Plaza for the assembly, briefing, and start of the third Marathon Race as the new START and FINISH areas for the 3rd and last Marathon.

3rd Day Briefing Start
Briefing Before The Start (Picture By Joaquin Bordado)

Upon the start of the race, the runners have to cross the one-kilometer long Gilbert Bridge as they move towards the south direction. The first town that they would reach is the Municipality of San Nicolas which is famous for their hand-made claypots. As the runners pass the San Nicolas Church, they have to turn left towards the San Nicolas-Dingras Highway and follow the said Highway going to the east direction, passing some Barangays of San Nicolas and Sarrat. It should be noted that this particular route is exactly parallel to the route on the 2nd Day. After 17 kilometers, the runners will reach the Poblacion of Dingras and the turn-around point is beside the Covered Court/Multi-Purpose Hall of the Municipality.

3rd Day Start
3rd Day Marathon Group Picture Before The Start (Picture By May Santos)

The race started at 11:35 PM and 10 minutes earlier than the 2nd day Marathon. It was somewhat cooler when the runners were running along the Gilbert Bridge but once we hit the populated area of Barangay Uno of San Nicolas, the air became warmer and humid. With the help of one of the runners of Team Kimat, Joaquin Bordado, he was requested to position himself at the intersection going to Dingras at the San Nicolas’ Claypot Marker as a Marshal to prevent the runners as well as their Support Vehicles to go towards the City of Batac.

The course have some rolling hills and also lined up with trees and other vegetated areas/rice fields. There are some portions where some road constructions and bridges are being widened and repaired. But the course is relatively flat. I was surprised to find out that there are Hotels and Resorts along the route. I was informed that the new River Mount Hotel and Resort has the best swimming pool in the province.

Aside from the resorts, along the route is where the Main Office of the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative is located, 4-5 kilometers away from Poblacion of Dingras. One can see also the bridge that connects Dingras and Sarrat (crossing the Laoag’s Padsan River) as an alternative route from those coming from the towns of Marcos and Nueva Era in going to Laoag City.

As I was approaching the turn-around point, I came to realize that the turn-around point should had been the PETRON Gas Station where my GPS Watch registered a distance of 13.1 miles. There was an extra 400-meter distance yet to be covered before I could reach the announced turn-around point. By this time, I was already the 7th runner to reach the place. In summary, the 2rd Day Marathon was longer by 800 meters!

3rd Day Turn Around Point
Turn-Around Point (21K) @ Poblacion Dingras (Picture By May Santos)

There seems to be a close competition among the top 3 runners! Since the Day 2 race, these runners had been putting off their headlights while they are on the run making sure that they could not be seen from afar from one another. I think somebody had leaked the information (which is supposed to be a surprise!) that I will be awarding the Overall Top 3 Podium Finishers for the whole event. I think these runners know the significance of being “Pioneers” and being the Top Podium Finishers of this new BR’s event.

The following is the result of the 3rd Day Marathon:

RANK      NAME              TIME (Hrs)

  1. Gibo Malvar ———— 4:45:44
  2. Dondon Talosig ——- 5:00:49
  3. Rod Losabia ———— 5:35:56
  4. Tess Leono (F) ——— 5:38:11
  5. Rose Betonio (F) —— 6:01:28
  6. Jovie Narcise/BR —— 6:17:43
  7. Reese Rogel (F) ——– 6:37:40

After the Awarding of Medals and Shirts, we had our usual group picture and it was time to recover again for the last and 4th Marathon Race. All the runners will be starting for the next/last race tonight!

3rd Day Finish Group Picture
Group Picture After Finishing The 3rd Marathon (Picture By May Santos)

 

2nd Day: Quad Marathons

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Marathon Race, Marathon Race Results, Pictures, Places to Run, Race Results, Races, Running, Sports Program, TravelLeave a comment

The second day Marathon Event started at 11:45 PM of June 9 (Friday) and expected to be finished at 6:15 AM of June 10 (Saturday). The route brings the runners to the eastern towns of Ilocos Norte. The runners would be able to pass the municipalities of Sarrat (first town after Laoag City) and the Poblacion of Piddig, Ilocos Norte (location of the turn-around point).

Day 2 Quad Marathons START
Day 2 Before The Start

The Municipality of Sarrat is noted to be the Birthplace of the Former President Ferdinand Marcos who ruled the Philippines for 20 years—8 years as a duly re-elected President and then another 12 years under Martial Law. The town has also a much-improved Public Park with an old Spanish Church. The Municipality of Piddig is also noted in history as the place in the country where the people revolted against the Spaniards because of a locally produced wine from sugar cane, called “Basi” in 1807. Up to the present, the place is still noted as the source of the Best Basi in the province.

The course is flat for the first 9 kilometers and then an uphill climb for about 200 meters at Km 10 which levels off until reaching Kilometer 19 which has another uphill terrain at the Poblacion (center) of Piddig..  The 21K turn-around point is the Solsona-Piddig Highway Kilometer Post #507. As compared with the first day route, this route has a cooler and windy environment because of big trees along the highway and the cooler winds coming from the mountain ranges located at the eastern part of the province of Ilocos Norte.

Day 2 Turn-Around
Day 2 Turn Around Point (21K)

Being the “sweeper” of the event, I could see who are the runners that are leading once they are on their way back to the Finish Line. Sometimes, if I see and feel that the last runner is lagging behind, I try to run in front or ahead of the runner so that he/she is forced to run faster to catch me.

Day 2 Quad Marathons
Day 2 Finish Line Group Picture

For this 2nd day Marathon, all the runners had improved on their finish times as shown below:

RANK          NAME              TIME (Hrs)

  1. Gibo Malvar ———– 4:51:58
  2. Dondon Talosig —— 4:58:36
  3. Rod Losabia ———– 5:20:23
  4. Tess Leono (F) ——– 5:46:26
  5. Rose Betonio (F) —– 5:50:16
  6. Reese Rogel (F) ——- 6:17:49
  7. Jovie Narcise/BR —– 6:17:55

After the awarding of the Finisher’s Medals and Shirts, we had a group picture and breakfast from McDonalds Fastfood courtesy of one of the runners.

Day 2 McDonalds
Recovery Food & Drinks After Marathon #2

Tonight will be the third Marathon Event in a different course which will test (again) the determination and endurance of all the runners.

(Note: Pictures Courtesy of May Santos)

1st Day: Quad Marathons

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Marathon Race, Marathon Race Results, Pictures, Race Results, Races, Running, Sports Program, TravelLeave a comment

Seven of my ultra running friends registered for the First Edition of the BR’s Quad Marathons which is held on June 9-12, 2017 with start and finish in Laoag City (Ilocos Norte). A day prior to the start of the event, I decided to join the runners as a runner-participant and at the same time the “sweeper” for the event. However, at the back of my mind, I did not want anybody among from friends to DNF this event.

The four daily marathon events is scheduled to start at 1:00 AM every day but with only a handful of participants, I advised all the runners that we might start earlier as soon as all the runners are already at the Start Area. Except for one runner, the remaining seven runners stayed in our house for easier control and management.

Each of the marathon events has a cut-off time of 6 hours and 30 minutes. If a runner finishes a marathon event beyond the cut-off time, the runner is declared DNF and could not join the succeeding events. Every official finisher each day will receive a Finisher’s Medal and Shirt. If the participant completes or finishes the four Marathon Events, he/she will receive a Finisher’s Trophy and a Finisher’s Certificate.

1st Day Quad Marathons
Group Picture Before The Start Of The Race

The first marathon event started at 12:30 AM and the course covers the 21K distance from the Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol in Laoag City to Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte and then back to the Starting Area. The route goes north along the Maharlika Highway passing the towns of Bacarra and Pasuquin. The turn-around point is at the Highway Kilometer Post #508 where a Marshal is located. The Marshal must take a picture of the runner once they reach the turn-around point before going back to the Starting Area for the Finish.

1st Day Quad Marathons 00
21K Turn-Around Point

For the logistics support of the runners, there are two roving Support Vehicles which could provide water, soft drinks, Gatorade, and bite foods for the runners. Usually, these support vehicles are located every 3 kilometers. In this edition, these support vehicles are also individual support vehicles of some of the runners.

The course is relatively flat with a few elevation gains at Kilometers 4-5 and on the way back, Kilometers 37-38. However, on this particular night, it was hot and humid with no wind even during the early morning.

All of the 8 participants were able to finish the Marathon on the first day within the cut-off time. The following is the result:

RANK          NAME                  TIME (Hrs)

  1. Dondon Talosig ———- 5:03:40
  2. Rod Losabia ————— 5:12:17
  3. Gibo Malvar ————— 5:37:27
  4. Tess Leono (Female) — 5:37:29
  5. Rose Betonio (F) ——— 5:45:04
  6. Reese Rogel (F) ———– 6:26:52
  7. Jovie Narcise/BR ——— 6:26:54
1st Day Quad Finish
Group Picture After The Awarding Of Medals & Shirts

After the awarding of Medals and Shirts, we had some group pictures taken. After breakfast, we went to the beach for a swim and had some sight-seeing; and have some fun!

1st Day Quad Finish Beach
Having Fun After The 1st Marathon Event

We hope that we will be ready again for the 2nd Marathon Event before midnight!

(Note: Pictures Courtesy of May Santos)

 

 

Official Result: 11th Tagaytay To Nasugbu 50K Ultra Marathon Race (T2N 50K)

On By kingofpotsIn Insights, Jogging, Race Results, Races, Running, Stretching, Travel, Ultra Marathon, Ultramarathon1 Comment

Official Result: 2017 (11th Edition) Tagaytay To Nasugbu 50K Ultra Marathon Race

4:00 AM April 30, 2017 To 1:00 PM April 30, 2017

From Picnic Grove, Tagaytay City To PETRON Gas Station, Nasugbu, Batangas

Cut-Off Time: 9 Hours

Number Of Starters: 289 Runners

Number Of Finishers: 287 Runners

Percentage Of Finish: 99.3%

RANK                NAME                         TIME (Hours)

  1. Jeffrey Galicio (Overall Champion) —–3:56:46
  2. Joseph Gentoleo (1st Runner-Up, Overall) —-4:11:43
  3. Thomas Combisen (2nd Runner-Up, Overall) —-4:23:45
  4. George Cabillo ——————–4:41:44
  5. Allan Merlin ———————4:44:47
  6. Ace Rodriguez ——————4:51:48
  7. Junifer Frenila —————4:54:10
  8. Leo Penas ——————–4:58:47
  9. Raffy Barolo —————-5:00:05
  10. Reynold Enriquez ——–5:08:27
  11. Gil Cunanan —————-5:17:24
  12. Michelle Manila (Champion, Female) ———5:23:55
  13. Antonio Arenas, Jr ——–5:25:12
  14. Jovic Villacortes ———–5:25:52
  15. Inia Diana Cayabyab (1st Runner-Up, Female) —-5:26:17
  16. Edward Agdamag ———5:27:27
  17. Isidro Labrador Prado —–5:28:46
  18. Reynante Gacusan ———5:30:38
  19. Juanito Centino ————–5:31:28
  20. Marlon Puno —————–5:35:26
  21. Jan Bequillo —————–5:36:28
  22. Angelo Rodriguez ——–5:36:29
  23. Sherwin Bargos ———-5:37:26
  24. Desrei Balla —————5:38:54
  25. Lucio Dimayuga ——–5:39:40
  26. Richard Antonio ——–5:40:55
  27. Levie Sinatad ———–5:41:52
  28. Michael Serapio ——-5:42:40
  29. Jeneth Silvestre (2nd Runner-Up, Female) —-5:44:15
  30. Virgilio Diaz, Sr. ——–5:44:35
  31. Michael Natanauan ——-5:46:07
  32. Noel Bautista ————5:49:50
  33. Marwell Sta Ana ——-5:51:10
  34. Nino Tammy Rexis ——-5:51:21
  35. Joey Alcantara ————5:53:17
  36. Rogelio Vicente Reyes Jr ——5:53:36
  37. Sandy Alentajan ———-5:53:56
  38. John Arman Perez ——–5:55:15
  39. Boyet Ligas ————-5:55:26
  40. Marlon Bobby Ruba ——-5:56:09
  41. Jaime Sanchez, Jr ———5:56:24
  42. Mark Eiro ——–5:57:40
  43. Jong Morales ——-5:58:45
  44. Joel Pradia ———5:59:39
  45. Peter Lloyd Molera ———5:59:52
  46. Yulo Paytone ———6:01:34
  47. Mark David Elpedes ——-6:02:04
  48. Porsha Rhia Lai (Female) ——–6:02:23
  49. Meliton Carag ———-6:02:26
  50. Jaypee Ian Boral ——-6:03:30
  51. Mandoy Cariaga ——-6:06:22
  52. Archie Licuanan ——-6:08:14
  53. Marielle Magramo (Female) —-6:08:15
  54. John Earl Susano ——-6:09:17
  55. Obeth Malana ——6:09:53
  56. Richard Gy ———6:10:21
  57. Rod Losabia ——–6:10:39
  58. Griffin Gonzales ——-6:11:21
  59. Edison Dantes ———6:11:55
  60. Arthur Saveron ——-6:13:52
  61. El Portillo ———–6:15:32
  62. Bernard Balagtas ——6:15:33
  63. Jun Valerio ———–6:15:34
  64. Hector Valerio ——6:15:38
  65. Ryan Fabie ———-6:18:21
  66. Jerome Caasi ——-6:18:30
  67. Jeselle Gardoci (Female) ——6:18:35
  68. Ramil Dumantay ——–6:18:50
  69. Hilbert Garganta ———6:19:10
  70. Francis Arnaldo Rivera —–6:20:56
  71. Ronald Reyes ———-6:21:09
  72. Ariel Abedong ——–6:24:10
  73. Eduardo Magpoc ——6:24:14
  74. Susan Lauron (Female) —–6:24:30
  75. Ronnie Gallero ———6:24:40
  76. Gay Beltran (Female) ——6:25:03
  77. Gen Calub (Female) ———6:25:26
  78. Jonel De Ocampo ———-6:25:48
  79. Joel Joseph Montilla ——6:26:08
  80. Efren Olpindo ———6:27:16
  81. Eric John Galeos ——-6:27:18
  82. Remy Caasi (Female) ——6:27:40
  83. Edwin Dalusong ———6:30:42
  84. Anthony Noriel Fodra——6:32:41
  85. Joannes Paulus ———6:34:54
  86. Ralph Louie Jacinto ——-6:35:22
  87. JP Navarette ————6:35:58
  88. Marlene Donena (Female) ——–6:36:36
  89. Eddie Cruz ——-6:39:32
  90. Elizer Loquere ——–6:39:46
  91. Joy Beltran (Female) ——–6:40:00
  92. Carl Balagot ————–6:40:21
  93. Raymond Depano ——6:40:51
  94. Fe Ramirez (Female) —–6:41:50
  95. Nestor Ramirez ———–6:41:56
  96. Marlon Zurbano ———6:42:10
  97. Rey John Bayona ——–6:42:47
  98. Aris De Leon ————-6:43:10
  99. Joy Bea (Female) ——–6:43:29
  100. Frenz Quiestas ———-6:43:48
  101. Rolando Campo ——–6:44:07
  102. Jerry Manubay ———6:44:27
  103. Glenn Macababbad ——6:44:45
  104. Rebecca Benavidez (Female) —–6:44:55
  105. Antonio Benavidez ———–6:45:02
  106. Jose Mari Mercado ——–6:45:20
  107. Hernando Panaligan ——6:46:25
  108. Rheigel Golosimo ———-6:46:38
  109. Mary Ann Martin (Female) ——-6:47:13
  110. Laico Tolentino ————6:48:24
  111. Emma Libunao (Female) ——-6:49:08
  112. Marlon Santos —————6:49:10
  113. Homer Paras —————-6:49:45
  114. Amado Miguel Diaz ——6:51:03
  115. Rodrigo Paz —————–6:51:39
  116. Peter Mendoza ————6:51:58
  117. RL V. Paz ——————6:52:08
  118. Jay Juanir —————–6:52:37
  119. Jaypee Palileo ———–6:53:41
  120. Reo Rex Jagonap ——-6:53:53
  121. Marlon Saracho ——–6:54:16
  122. Mark Sarical ————6:54:42
  123. Beverly Andal (Female) ——6:55:05
  124. Karl Michael Santos ——-6:55:22
  125. Anna Odessa Albarracin (Female)——6:56:06
  126. Emil Muyuela ———–6:57:00
  127. Francisco Espiritu ——-6:57:28
  128. Michael Peralta ———–6:57:43
  129. Rosean Saet (Female) —–6:57:57
  130. Oliver Andaya ————6:58:06
  131. Rionell Buencamino ——6:59:36
  132. Ryan Geli ————-6:59:53
  133. Louie Cotejar ——–7:00:00
  134. Cedrick Oares ——–7:00:30
  135. Kevin Luna ———–7:01:05
  136. Gabriella Yna Villanueva (Female) —-7:01:39
  137. Reynaldo Santiago, Jr. ———–7:02:47
  138. Ella Apurillo (Female) ———-7:04:11
  139. Nilo Sarmiento ————7:05:21
  140. Garry Reyes ————-7:05:32
  141. Jay Calingasan ———7:05:53
  142. Dudely Regalado ——7:06:03
  143. Farrah Serran (Female) ——7:06:51
  144. Anne Rose Paras (Female) —–7:06:55
  145. Gomer Pascua ———-7:07:00
  146. Leonor Villanueva (Female) —–7:07:22
  147. Bal Dela Cuesta ———-7:07:22
  148. Gibo Malvar ————-7:08:05
  149. Roraylyn Pena (Female) —–7:08:19
  150. Ayn Veronica De Jesus (Female) —-7:08:31
  151. Quennee Rose Mamaro (Female) —-7:08:52
  152. Jennifer Racho (Female) —–7:09:04
  153. Nancy Chan (Female) ——–7:09:09
  154. Jun Ramirez ————-7:09:37
  155. Kathleen Piñero (Female) ——7:10:28
  156. Audie Tolentino ———–7:10:58
  157. Juan Saraza —————7:11:10
  158. Bernadette Aguirre (Female) —–7:11:17
  159. Paolo Tiong ————–7:11:35
  160. Irrol Novenario ———7:13:00
  161. Ivy Paguia (Female) ——7:13:16
  162. Jim Taguiang ————7:13:22
  163. Jose Broderic Yandoc ———–7:17:03
  164. Jeanne Mendoza (Female) ——7:17:30
  165. Santiago Olarte ———7:19:02
  166. Roby Amil ———–7:19:55
  167. Jojo Roxas ————7:20:08
  168. Raymond Dongketo ——-7:21:22
  169. Joseph Alsol ———-7:21:45
  170. Marcos Baguistan —-7:22:35
  171. Gary Mosqueda ——–7:23:24
  172. Mannix Manapat ——7:23:44
  173. Jenneth Soriano (Female) —–7:24:00
  174. Phillip Leaño ———–7:24:11
  175. Erwin Dumlao ———7:24:32
  176. William Marino ——–7:25:06
  177. Jun Galita ————–7:25:27
  178. Ralph Madriaga ——7:25:41
  179. Tony Gabuyo, Jr ——-7:25:45
  180. Albert Joseph Carreon ——7:25:56
  181. Ferdie Pascual ——-7:26:11
  182. Christine De Guzman (Female) —–7:26:18
  183. Ariane Legarte — ——-7:26:47
  184. Lorena Laurena (Female) ——7:26:59
  185. Glenn Adviento ————–7:27:17
  186. Jonathan Moleta ————7:27:27
  187. June Policarpio ————-7:27:55
  188. Florrie Alleeia Bartolome (Female) —-7:28:11
  189. Sidney Perida ————-7:28:18
  190. Francis Gilvert Navarro ——7:28:48
  191. Glenn Terania ————-7:29:05
  192. Warren Cristobal ———7:29:25
  193. Michael Sacluti ————7:30:10
  194. Rona Saludes (Female) ——7:30:26
  195. Hermie Saludes ————7:30:32
  196. Nino Dimapilis ————–7:32:18
  197. Jhay Ann Santos (Female) —–7:32:37
  198. Analiza Que (Female) ——–7:32:57
  199. Rene Navarro ————-7:33:30
  200. William Garcia ———-7:33:51
  201. Ryan Dela Vega ———-7:34:00
  202. Genaro Doringo ———7:34:24
  203. Jojo Arellano ————-7:34:45
  204. Tina Aldaya (Female) ——7:35:04
  205. Elmar Casauay ———–7:36:06
  206. Arleen Peralta (Female) —–7:37:13
  207. Jonas Olandria ———-7:37:37
  208. Franklin Borlongan Flora —–7:37:58
  209. Jay Luna ——-7:38:30
  210. Mark Nikolai Laderas —–7:39:00
  211. Vanessa Labit (Female) —–7:40:24
  212. Angelica Isabel Paz (Female) —-7:40:45
  213. Maricel Bautista (Female) ——7:40:57
  214. Ronnel Go ——————7:41:08
  215. Robertson Paredes ———-7:41:42
  216. Hendricks Gonzales ———7:42:03
  217. Lech John Sarmiento ——–7:43:49
  218. Rochelle Agpalo (Female) —-7:45:00
  219. Cesar Cantos Frago ———7:45:09
  220. Eric Federico —————7:45:17
  221. Joseph Nebrida ———–7:47:57
  222. Gregorio Torres ———-7:48:25
  223. Bryan Castillo ———–7:51:29
  224. Mark Sidamon ———7:53:13
  225. Pojie Peñones ———-7:54:32
  226. Binky Musngi (Female) ——-7:54:50
  227. Kat Yee (Female) ———-7:54:55
  228. Bob Tolete —————7:55:00
  229. Michael Socito ———7:56:26
  230. Neil Nava —————7:56:33
  231. Ruel Peñalosa ———7:56:59
  232. Virgilio Belen ———-7:57:32
  233. Renel Diamante ———7:58:31
  234. Isagani Zuñiga ———-7:58:45
  235. Rowena Tan (Female) —–7:58:54
  236. Noel Diamante ————7:59:17
  237. Eduardo Tantay ———7:59:24
  238. Jerry Mae Conde ——–7:59:24
  239. Reese Rogel (Female) ——-8:00:07
  240. Katrina Mae Cruz (Female) —–8:01:03
  241. Ma. Mercedes Lou Castro (Female) —-8:01:34
  242. Kelvin Dela Torre ———8:01:40
  243. Abegail Paras (Female) ——8:02:45
  244. Larry Olaguir ————8:06:41
  245. Brian Maglunob ——–8:06:53
  246. Armando Pacia ———-8:07:01
  247. Miles Evangelista (Female) ——8:07:09
  248. Hannalee Balibag (Female) —–8:07:21
  249. Anna Katrina Nillo (Female) —-8:07:33
  250. Melody Moreno (Female) ——-8:07:53
  251. Dhanielyn Punzalan (Female) —–8:08:05
  252. Adrian Dimaunahan ———-8:08:26
  253. Jhonalyn Mojica (Female) ——-8:11:57
  254. Armand Escueta —————8:12:09
  255. Christian Almendrala ——–8:12:30
  256. Alan Aguinaldo ————8:12:52
  257. Clarissa Calingasan (Female) —–8:14:03
  258. Arnie Monacillo ———-8:14:24
  259. Tom Barrientos ———–8:14:43
  260. Avin Sauler ————-8:15:31
  261. Jansiel Pernia (Female) ——8:15:43
  262. Sabrina Oliveros (Female) ——8:18:14
  263. Aileen Tucio (Female) ———8:18:49
  264. Felmer Hiponia ————-8:19:53
  265. Maila Bautista (Female) ——8:20:05
  266. Edison Colandres ———-8:23:51
  267. Eduardo Lim —————8:31:29
  268. Rhea Galpo (Female) —–8:32:44
  269. Carl Manio ————-8:32:58
  270. Robert Dulguime ——–8:35:57
  271. Rodel Crisostomo ——-8:36:20
  272. Fritz Erwin Fernandez ——–8:36:43
  273. Leopoldo Esquilona ———8:36:52
  274. Christian Francia ——-8:37:15
  275. Reinier Lon Salvo (Female) —–8:43:01
  276. Jesus Reuben Arevalo ———8:43:06
  277. Jennifer Eufemia Domingo (Female) —-8:47:18
  278. Rona Carandang (Female) ——8:48:39
  279. Cecille Picardal-Manginsay (Female) —-8:48:53
  280. Robert Dionisio ———8:49:06
  281. Ronnie Aquino ———-8:49:31
  282. Tommy Mendoza ——8:49:53
  283. Ruben Gonzales ——–8:50:25
  284. Jeremy Panaligan ——-8:50:30
  285. Mark Celimen ———–8:51:07
  286. Madana De Guzman (Female) ——-8:51:17
  287. Marvin Maquirang ——9:00:00
  288. Bong Anastacio ——–9:14:43

Congratulations To All The Finishers!

2017 T2N
Official Logo

Mental (Training) Preparation

On By kingofpotsIn Hiking, Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Races, Runners' Training, Running, Sports Program, Trail Running, Travel, Ultra Marathon, Ultra Running, Ultra Trail RunningLeave a comment

For a serious marathoner or ultra runner, the physical training in preparation for an event needs a lot of time, effort, dedication, patience, money, and hard work just be able to attain those number of miles, hours of training, and comply to the scheduled training one has to follow. It is already ingrained in us the importance of the following: Long Slow Distance running to develop our endurance; Interval Training and Hill Repeats to develop our power, strength, and speed; Tempo Running to develop a sustained pace for a certain period of time; and Recovery Runs to allow our muscles to recover after a certain more intense workout or after a block of weekly training. And most important of all, Rest, for our muscles and the whole body to recuperate and rebuild as a result of the stress the body had been exposed to.

Even if we think that our physical preparation is perfectly done, there is still a great possibility that we fail to cross the finish line. There are outside factors that will try to challenge our physical training. It could be the weather, the difficulty of the terrain (high altitude), injury, or if not, accidents! But what is most important during the race is how your brain works before and during the race.

Mental attitude during the race is the key to a successful finish in a race and it plays a lot in all my successful finish in the past.

Hiking 02
“Train Heavy, Race Light”

For a runner to have a positive mental attitude during the race, he/she should have done his/her assignment on mental training/preparation before and during his/her physical training preparation for the event. Only few of our elite or average ultra runners who would tell us in their respective blogs on how they mentally prepared themselves to podium finish or simply finish the event. Or maybe, they don’t know about mental attitude as it is already ingrained in their body system without them knowing it.

Here are my suggestions for anybody on how to mentally prepare for a certain running event, either you are a “newbie” runner or a hardcore ultra runner:

  1. Create a Blog——It is now very easy to create a blog or personal website where a runner can use it as a Daily Dairy. Just make sure that all your stories or entries are true and accurate. This is where you describe your physical training and the place where the training is done on a daily basis. In short, this is your Runner’s Logbook where you include what you think about your training for the day and how your body feels before, during and after the workout. Do not fabricate or manufacture your daily entry. If you missed a daily workout, say so! Nowadays, you can have your blog on Facebook! This “diary” will become your reference in your future races. And please don’t think that you will be “sharing” your “secrets” to your readers by showing to the world how you are preparing for your next running event. The key word in the present world of Social Media is “SHARE”. The more you share your experience, the more you inspire others!
  2. Shout It To The World——If you are dreaming a certain event for you to join, announce it to the world. If you are intending to Register to a certain event, announce it to the world through your Social Media accounts. If you have successfully registered to an event, announce it to the world. Announcing your intention to the World is too easy to be done nowadays. You can announce it to your Blog/Website, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. The key here is that as early as possible, announce to the world that you are participating a certain event and you announce it that you will finish the event. Announcing your participation to a race makes you accountable of the things you would do to finish this race. You are also accountable to your family, relatives and friends.
  3. Make A Bet——As if you are gambling, make a bet on yourself. If you finish the event, you must be able to reward yourself with something that is very significant and reminds you of your accomplishment. It could be something physical (object—-new shoes or new running gear/apparel or a trip to a place where you can rest and relax. If you fail in your event, think of of something that will penalise or punish you! Maybe, you could take a rest or simply do another sports which you hate most! Or maybe, punish yourself by volunteering to a race where you hate the Race Director! The key here is that you should challenge yourself to be the best you could be!
  4. Ask Somebody To Make A Bet——It could be your close friend or Friends on Facebook whom you would challenge to gamble with you. If you win, you get something from them and if you lose, you give something to them. Just simple as that! Challenge your friends to gamble with you!
  5. Ask for Sponsorship and Donations——If you are very good in convincing other people, most specially to your friends, in helping you finance your trip or provide you some of the needed support like water, sports drinks and food, you can ask for sponsorship or donations. In this way, you are adding accountability to your success (or failure) among those who have donated your needs for the race.
  6. Be transparent——Post anything on your Blog those evidence that you are dedicated in your training and in your quest to finish your event. It could be coming from your workout/s on Strava, Dailymile, Training Peaks, or any pictures of you doing your homework for the event.
  7. Read Race Reports of Finishers——Most of the runners abroad have their own blog and most of them are elite runners but most of them are average ultra runners. They would share their experiences and lessons learned during their race. These blogs would provide all the detailed information about the Race. However, do not try to attain their finish time and their split times on the different Checkpoints along the route. What is important is that you can pick-up and learn some details about their attitude and sometimes, their strengths and weaknesses (mistakes) during the race.
  8. Try to Mimic or Train In A Place Similar to the Event’s Course——By studying the Elevation Profile of a certain race, you can easily determine or locate a place where you can do your training. As I said in my previous posts, you have to compute the elevation gain in every 10 kilometres of the race and then find a place where you can train with the same total of elevation gain. If it is not possible, do mountain “repeats” or multi-loop runs in a course where it is hilly or in a rugged terrain. Make sure also to be observant on your time as some of the checkpoints have a very tight cut-off times in some sections of the course.
  9. Do “Brainstorming” Sessions——In the military, we do “brainstorming” sessions during the planning stage of a military operation. We write down the possible scenario that will lead to a successful attainment of the mission/objective and in the same manner, write down the scenario that will lead to the failure of the mission. In running an ultra, you have to do this also. As of this time, you know already your strengths and weaknesses in running an ultra race. Write them down and review them as you recall them in your successes and failures in your past events. Write down also your “time-tested” remedies/solutions when you hit some “issues” along the run. From all these data, you can now write a chronological list of things to do and/or things that you experience in your body in every section of the course or in every certain period of time that you are running in an event. Hopefully, you will create a very long list and while you are reviewing them every day, you will be able to compress them and come up with an outline or a shorter version. Remember that the things on the list are the things that you are EXPECTED to do and the things that your body would react or expect to experience, considering the weather, your pace, and the terrain of the course during the race. If there is a need to have a back-up Plan, then do so! Read these plans as often as possible!
Hiking 04
Do Your Homework Diligently

Since this post is for one’s mental preparation and training before a running event, I leave it at that and more to come on how we can sustain a positive mental attitude during the race. If you have any suggestions, feel free to make a comment/suggestion on this blog.

Thank you!