MARATHON STORY: EFREN & VANGIE GREGORIO, BIB NOS. 322 & 323

Friday, 22 March 2013  |  Bullish Insights

As is the tradition of TBR Dream Marathon, after the race, I post anecdotes about the marathon that I receive in my Inbox from our new marathoners. My inbox gets inundated with stories of triumph, love, gratitude, passion, and empowerment that it’s too much of a waste if only I read it. Through this series of stories (one every week for the next couple of months), may you all be inspired to run a marathon or dream big in your own lives.

TBR DREAMERS 2013: Efren & Vangie Gregorio
Bib Nos. 322 & 323

By Efren Gregorio

I’m a MILO 42K finisher with traumatic experience and once said to myself “I will not repeat this insanity, ever.” And in my wife’s case, she cannot hide her fear to go the full distance. But when I heard from a colleague (a TBR alumni) about TBR and started visiting its blog, I said to myself “we will join this running family.” Unfortunately, we missed the 2012 batch and I started to lose hope. Luckily, during RU1 last July 2012, I chanced upon Jaymie (I don’t know if she can recall it) at a water station in front of PICC and I said: “Hi Jaymie, good morning! I and my wife wanted to join your Dream Marathon but we don’t know how.” She replied: “Yes sir we will be glad to welcome both of you” and she whispered “Just visit my blog and I will have an announcement, MAYBE in September. Okay sir, let’s run to the finish line.” True to her words, in September we were able to register but not without a hitch and I know everybody in batch 2013 knows what that hitch is all about. Ha ha ha!

Our preparation started like this, from all Bull Circles and Bull Sessions we attended, we eagerly and enthusiastically absorbed every pieces of advice from coaches Lit, Jun and the two Jims (Lafferty and Saret). From doctors who explained the relation of medicine during training and, to avoid injuries and life threatening illnesses that a marathoner can get. And from other TBR alums who shares their experiences and spares some tips to all next dreamers wannabe. So, when the penultimate D-Day came (February 24, 2013) we’re ready!

We could say that our TBR Dream Marathon is a once-in-a-life-time and unforgettable experience in our running career. Only in this foot race that we didn’t feel the atmosphere of competition and time pressure but rather feels like participating in a big family gathering wherein all participants are all familiar faces. During the race we are overwhelmed by the support of TBR organization, like the never-ending supplies of everything a runner could want and more. You name it, over-flowing water and Gatorade in 3 flavors, the expensive GU Power Gel, salt supplement in capsule that when you missed it a piece or two of Chippy will be offered for the pickings, chocolates, gummy bears, oranges, apples, bananas, massage, singing bands and many more. But the most “supply” we can say that you can’t buy is the unselfish and dedicated expression of TBR’s motto: “pay it forward” by the TBR Alumnae. A heart-felt thanks to Joseph Nebrida and Philip of Batch 2012 who paced my wife and her co-running pace during the last part of the second loop. Also thanks to Craig Logan (Batch 2010) for his gummy bears. Ha ha ha!

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– Efren running steady-

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– Vangie all smiles! –

We knew from the beginning that our family will be there to support us. We also knew about the Dream Bus wherein our family will be carried to the running course. But we didn’t know the real effect of that encounter with our family during those times when you feel down and out of strength and suddenly seeing our son 10 feet away giving me a power bar, OMG! I want to cry! For both of us, it is like a second wind and that we wanted to finish strong. But the most memorable and incomparable one is when we crossed the finish line. Yes our two sons were there, but my brother? My two eldest sisters and my nephew with his wife in tow were there too? Inside of me it’s just a BIG BIG WOW! On my wife’s part she didn’t expected them too to be there, and to add more tearful feeling, she and my sisters had this indescribable friction that is very normal and standard to every Filipino family, that when she crossed the finish line she was hugged, kissed and congratulated by her long lost in-laws. Whew that is the most nerve wreaking feeling we savored on that D-Day! After all was said and done (the greetings, the picture takings and congratulatory words), it was known that our eldest son was the culprit to all these beautiful happenings. He said he used the FB and the text medium. Ang galing!

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– Efren flashes his TBRDM medal –

Now as both alumnae (naks!), we learned also to respect not just other runners but also the course’s conditions and its landscape offerings. TBR, you really made us wiser as a runner and instill in our minds that nothing is impossible if you really do it the right way.

Again, to Jaymie and the TBR Dream Team THANK YOU for the journey!

adidas Energy Boost

Friday, 22 March 2013  |  Gear + Gadgets

A few weeks back, adidas launched the adidas Energy Boost in an intimate press gathering. Adrien Semblat, head of Marketing for adidas Philippines, introduced us to their newest shoe.

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– adidas Energy Boost –

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– Adrien Semblat, head of Marketing for adidas Philippines, talks about adidas shoes –

ABOUT THE SHOE: ADIDAS ENERGY BOOST

adidas Energy Boost is the new running shoe with revolutionary cushioning technology that provides the highest energy return in the industry.

The foundation of the ENERGY BOOST™ innovation is centred on proprietary cushioning material, BOOST™, that allows the runner to feel a continuous energy return. The revolutionary technology allows small energy capsules in the soles to store and unleash energy more efficiently with every stride.

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Holding its performance in almost any condition the exclusive BOOST™ material has been proven to be three times more temperature-resistant than standard EVA material, thus providing a more consistent and comfortable run.

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The adidas ENERGY BOOST™ innovation goes beyond the revolutionary midsole technology. The upper on the ENERGY BOOST™ features adidas Techfit technology, which provides optimal comfort and support to the entire foot while in motion.

Additional features include a special mid-foot support frame, an extended TORSION® system to minimise roll for more stability, adiwear outsole to reduce wear in key soles areas and an external heel counter to maximise the heel fit and comfort. The adidas ENERGY BOOST™ is miCoach compatible.

OUR TEST RUN

adidas provided each of us with our own pair of adidas Energy Boost with our names, literally, written on it (well, on the box at least!) along with adidas apparel for a quick test run around Track 30th, just across the newly opened adidas store in Two Parkade, Bonifacio High Street.

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– The new adidas Energy Boost –

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– Right before our test run –

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– Runners testing the shoe –

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– with Vima Mendoza of Kulit Runner, Isabelle Daza, Tessa Prieto-Valdez and Lara Parpan of Women’s Health –

MY FIRST IMPRESSION

For transparency, I’ve only used the shoe during the test run and I have yet to take it for a longer run. I usually give shoe reviews for shoes I’ve run over 15k in. Having said that, here’s my initial impression of the shoe:

– Bouncy and responsive. The selling point of this shoe is its responsiveness because of its new Boost technology (the bubble look in the sole that looks like styrofoam) and I must say that I agree.  With every step, the shoe does feel bouncy but still close to the ground.  Now, I can’t tell if the whole concept about energy is for real, but it sure does feel like it!

– Comfort.  The shoe feels snug because of the Techfit material of the upper; it fits like a glove.  I love shoes like this so this was a plus for me.  Mental note to wear this only on sunny days since rain will get your socks and shoes soaked.

– Light.  This shoe is very light.  In my vocabulary that also means fast.

– Iffy about stability.  adidas says the Torsion system will help for stability, but I do need to test this first.  Upon seeing the shoe, I would say it looks like it’s more for the efficient neutral runner.

– Pricey. P7,995 is on the higher end of the price range for run shoes.

I hope to give a more thorough review of this shoe when I’ve used it for longer runs after my marathon.

WHERE TO BUY

adidas ENERGY BOOST™ retails at PHP7995 and is currently available only at adidas, Two Parkade, Bonifacio High Street. Only 200 pairs available in the Philippines.

Gear for Salomon Xtrail Run 2013

Thursday, 21 March 2013  |  Gear + Gadgets, Race Announcements

Who’s joining Salomon Xtrail Run 2013 this coming weekend in Hamilo Coast? I wish I could’ve, but when it’s close to marathon day, I usually shy away from trail runs to avoid any untoward incidents.  Paranoid, I know, but better to be safe than sorry!  I hope to join this next year though!

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For those who are joining or those who interested in trail running (Me! Me!), here are trail gear recommended by our friends from Salomon:

TRAIL FOOTWEAR

Trail running shoes protect feet and toes from trauma, better than road running shoes. Whether it’s rock, soil, grass, dirt or concrete, they provide better traction on different surfaces. They also dry much faster than road shoes.

Microsoft Word - RECOMMENDED GEAR for the SALOMON XTRAIL PILIPINAS 2013.docx

TRAIL CLOTHING

Trail Running clothes should be lightweight, breathable and quick-drying. More importantly, they must be comfortable.

Microsoft Word - RECOMMENDED GEAR for the SALOMON XTRAIL PILIPINAS 2013.docx

HYDRATION GEAR

Proper Hydration is essential in trail running. Runners become dehydrated much quicker in altitude, requiring them to carry their hydration needs. Choose from waistpacks, hydration belts, hydration backpacks or handhelds.

Microsoft Word - RECOMMENDED GEAR for the SALOMON XTRAIL PILIPINAS 2013.docx

COMPRESSION GEAR

Compressions are apparel that keeps the muscles warm to prevent muscle strain and fatigue, and wick sweat away from the body to prevent chafing and rashes. Through the recent years, compression gear has proven itself to enhance athletic performance. Compression tights, tanks, shorts, etc are used to reduce the time taken for muscles to repair themselves.

Microsoft Word - RECOMMENDED GEAR for the SALOMON XTRAIL PILIPINAS 2013.docx

Have fun at the trails!

Success Summit on 10 May 2013

Tuesday, 19 March 2013  |  News + Promos

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Hope you can make it to the Success Summit! I’ll be a speaker!

Event: Success Summit
Date: May 10, 2013
Time: 9AM to 5PM
Venue: Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati

SPEAKERS:

Raymond Aaron
– North America’s No. 1 Success Coach; New York Times Top Ten Best-Selling Author
– Topic:  “Successful by Choice”

Norman Black
– Former CBA, NBA and PBA Player
– Multi-titled Champion Coach
– Topic:  “Developing a Blueprint for Success”

Alex Araneta
– Chief Catalyst of Catalyst 360
– SMI-Certified Sales Trainer & Keynote Speaker
– Topic: “True Picture of Success”

Jim Lafferty
– Former CEO of Coca-Cola Nigeria and Procter & Gamble Philippines
– Topic: “Creating your own Personal Brand”

Rose Fres-Fausto
– Author of “Raising Pinoy Boys”
– Philstar.com Columnist
– Topic: “Preparing Yourself for Financial Success”

Jaymie Pizarro
– a.k.a. The Bull Runner; Renowned blogger, Graphic Artist
– Topic:  “Turning Passion and Purpose into Profit”

Ging Igual
– TalentSmart U.S. EQ Trainer
– Topic:  “Managing the Soft Side of Business with E.Q.”

Race Report: Run United 1 2013

Monday, 18 March 2013  |  Race Reports

Over 12,000 runners participated in the first of RunRio and Unilab Active Health’s series of Run United events for the year: Run United 1 yesterday at SM Mall of Asia Grounds.

Majority of the runners participated in the half marathon with a whopping 5,000 runners registered for the event. Indeed a sign that runners have now progressed to longer distances. Other distances had the following number of runners: 10k – 4,000, 5k – 3,000 and the 500m – 169 runners.

As expected, the organizers offered runners yet another well-organized event. Despite the large population of runners, the gun start was quick and simple with wave starts to diffuse the crowd in the early portions of the race. The requisite marshals and traffic enforcers, kilometer and directional signs, portalets, and medical aid were present. Bonus bananas and sponges were available at key stations as well. Runners were also given giveaways (loved the free bottle) and medal.

Perhaps the only issue I had as a runner was the parking. I arrived at 3AM only to discover that only one parking lot was open (all other parking lots were gradually opened as the hours passed). Runners who had gone early to ensure they had parking space were faced with long lines and bumper-to-bumper traffic. Hopefully, next race, all parking lots will be opened by SM as early as 3AM to ensure smooth flow.

Notable changes in this race:

1) Shift in sports drink brand to G or Gatorade – I can tell you that many, including this runner, were ecstatic about this news. No need to BYOG (Bring your own Gatorade) in your hydration belt anymore!  Gatorade also launched their new branding following the global brand: G for Gatorade along with their new slogan: That’s G!

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– with Lit, Ton, and Jun in our G (Gatorade) shirts –

2) 21k course all in SM MOA – When I heard of the change in course to SM MOA area, I instantly thought that the race would be fast, flat, and easy for all of us. Sure, it was flat and fast, but it sure wasn’t easy, at least for me. Three reasons: I shy away from flat courses in marathons because one uses the same leg muscles all throughout the entire run. I thought it would be fine for a half marathon, but, um, when my calves started screaming at Km 18, I kinda knew it was begging for some gentle hills and descents. Secondly, the vehicular traffic at Buendia was just awful. I honestly don’t think the organizers can do anything about this anymore. The fumes from the buses and jeepneys got into my eyes and I ran flinching in pain hoping I could douse it with water at the nearest station. Third, one word: humidity.

Don’t get me wrong. The course wasn’t bad at all.  In fact, I’m sure a lot of the runners enjoyed it (e.g, Itong Torres and Noey Lopez who were smiling from ear-to-ear about their run without wanting to tell us exactly what their time was.  My guess, based on how fast they disappeared from my sight at Buendia, was sub-1:50) But, I’m just saying that I did like the BGC-MOA course more despite the inconvenience of a point-to-point course.

3) Bigger and better Unilab Active Health – I didn’t think ULAH could improve on their post-race area anymore, but wow, they got even bigger this year. There were lots of photowalls, free samples from sponsors, running talks for beginners, merchandise, and Pedicab and Rivermaya were there to perform! How cool is that?

All in all, it was still the big race that everyone was looking forward to and, judging from the smiles of the people around me that morning, Unilab Active Health and RunRio gave the runners what they hoped for…and more.

MY PLAN

Coach Andy had initially plugged a 21k into the day of the race because he knew I signed up for Run United 1. Few days before the race, I asked if I could do 32k instead to build my mileage for London Marathon. After much thought, he said yes, but with the following words of caution: Do not get injured.

Gulp. I lifted my right hand up in the air and promised. Then, ran the numbers quickly in my mind.

The plan:

  • Before the race – 3k easy
  • Race – 21k comfortably hard. No time goals. No pressure. But not easy either.
  • After the race – 8k
  • TOTAL – 32k

THE RACE

Jun, Lit, and I started our run a little past 3AM. We easily covered the 3km running from the parking lot to the race start passing by the portalets and back. Done.

With barely time to rest, we entered the assembly area and had just a few minutes of waiting before the race started. We were in the 2nd wave.

As agreed, we would run our own race. We all put our earphones on and weaved through the crowd of runners in the first few meters of the race.

I felt strong, but I didn’t feel great either. I couldn’t put my finger on it. I just didn’t feel right.

Maybe knowing that I had to run 8k after the race kept me from pushing too hard? Maybe waking up at 1:30am with only 3.5 hours of sleep took its toll on me? Maybe the 1.5 hours on the trainer the day before tired me out? Or, maybe it was just one of those days when it’s not a great run, but it’s not a bad one either?

Whatever. I just allowed myself to run at an effort level of around 8 and I tried my best to keep up with the two boys without killing myself in the process.

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– I’m definitely not a flat course runner! Photo: Yongsky. www.runningphotographers.com –

Before I knew it, I could see the finish line. It looked so near and yet so far! I glanced at my watch (which I wasn’t paying attention to because I wasn’t aiming for a particular time) and learned that I could actually reach a sub-2! I zoned out and ran full speed ahead.

Based on my Timex Run Trainer, I finished 21k at 2:00:34. Missed a sub-2 by 35 seconds! (It’s almost deja vu from my Ironman 70.3 Cebu experience! Waahaha!)

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– 2:00:43 finish time for Run United 1 21k –

THE LAST 8K

Despite the missed sub-2, I was happy with my time. I changed my shirts and socks, both drenched from the race, put on my visor and shades, sprayed SPF 100 sun block and bid my friends goodbye. I was doing the last 8k on my own. And, secretly, I was looking forward to it.

I’ve missed my solo runs. I’ve missed my long runs. And so, I thought a long solo run by my lonesome was long overdue.

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– Photo op with JayR, Jerich, and Justin in the middle of my run. Photo: Justin Gomez –

I ran one long strip of SM MOA back and forth and covered the last 8k to tick off my 32k long run from my marathon program. It was not so much physically exhausting as it was mentally challenging. One could’ve included it in my Coach’s list of Character Building workouts!

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– Nice bumping into Spongebob Runner Merl and Running Host Boy Ramos after my LSD –

Injuries? None. Just terrible chafing in the perimeter of my sports bra despite using Body Glide. Feeling? Tired, but not exhausted. I felt like I could do more if I had to. Hunger? Surprisingly, I didn’t feel famished. I drank my Enervon HP for recovery and had a light salmon crepe for replinshment. Happiness? 100%. I live for long runs and marathon training, fantastic races, and great friends to run them with.

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– Tired but happy. Photo: Justin Gomez –

Block your calendar for Run United 2 on June 2 and Run United Philippine Marathon on October 6. For more info, visit http://unilabactivehealth.com/