Posts Tagged with: "Running"

The day before the race, I attended the press conference held during the Laguna Phuket International Marathon race expo at the Event Marquee.

Here I am smiling, but deep inside I was torn between the half marathon and 10.5k. I ended up signing up for the 10.5k rather than risking a toilet emergency or worse dehydration or heatstroke during the run.  (I sound so mature, I love it! Wahaha)

During the race expo, runners were still allowed to register.  Sponsors booths sold running/triathlon products and race merchandise.

Bumped into Pinoy runners at the expo. Ultra runner Bro. Carlo, formerly from Cebu but now based in Bangkok, registered for the full while Pure flew in from Manila to run the half marathon.

– Bro. Carlo, me, Lit, and Pure. Yes, we had to climb up on stage just for this photo. Hey, we’re Pinoys, remember?! We do everything for a great shot –

Met Mia, a Pinoy runner based in Bangkok, on the way to the press con. Let me know if you want to join TBR Dream, Ria!

Met Wu, a TBR reader from Malaysia, who’s looking at running a marathon in the Philippines.  Come over anytime, Wu!

Marathon Man Trent Morrow from Australia started running in 2008 and has since run 50 marathons (including the Laguna Phuket Int’l Marathon). Here he is with one of his new friends and fans from the Philippines. Such a friendly, amiable, and passionate runner!

We claimed our loot bags BEFORE we even finished the race.  Perhaps we should do the same in Manila?  Nah!

Registration fee for Laguna Phuket International Marathon

Finishers’ Medals – I like!

Race organizers and personalities during the press con: Ms. Thailand who led the walk to raised funds for “Fully Booked” schools project, Mr. Roman Floesser, race director and triathlete who’s done Ironman 70.3 Camsur a couple of time, Ms. Debbie Dionysius, AVP – Destination Marketing of Laguna Phuket, and Trent Morrow aka Marathon Man.

Our very own Chi Running instructor and TBR Dream Marathon head coach Lit Onrubia gave a talk on Chi Running.

Hey, hey, hey, what is this?  A reason to return to paradise?!

Click to read Part 1: Laguna Phuket International Marathon – Race Report

Race: Run Paradise! – 7th Laguna Phuket International Marathon
Date: 10 June 2012
Venue: Laguna Phuket, Phuket, Thailand

TBR Rating:

Set in Laguna Phuket, a picturesque 1,000-acre resort with six hotels and villa properties with 8km of long white sand beaches and lagoons, the Laguna Phuket International Marathon aptly titled its race: “Run Paradise.”

Now on its 7th year, the Laguna Phuket International Marathon drew a record field of more than 4,000 runners from 50 countries who raced a variety of distances: 42k, 21k, 10.5k, 91.5FM 5k community walk, and a 2k children’s run. Of the 4,088 runners, only 1,400 were Thai with around 50 other nationalities represented. The Japanese runners numbered 405.

For a relatively small race in Manila’s standards, this marathon was a well-organized and top-notch event. Free shuttles took runners to and from the assembly area, cold hydration, fruits, and sponges on the course were overwhelming, kilometer signs were accurate, and, last but not the least, the race course was safe, scenic, and a pleasure to run.

TBR REVIEW

PROS:
– beautiful race course. Majority of the 10k course was within the Laguna Phuket area which was both safe and scenic.
– cold and ample hydration (water and 100Plus sports drink), fruits, and sponges
– accurate kilometer markers
– road marshals throughout the 10k course
– free shuttle to and from the race venue within Laguna Phuket
– friendly and helpful race staff
– weather was similar to Manila. Just a little bit more humid.
– attractive medal
– small race with a relaxed and fun atmosphere. No heavy traffic.
– onsite registration available until the day before the race
– pre-race expo with merchandise from sponsors and a short running talk for free
– carbo loading party (for an additional fee)
– for foreign runners, the hotels within Laguna Phuket are mostly five-star hotels that make for a perfect run/vacation for the entire family
– post-race area included free food buffet, massage, and hydration for finishers

CONS:
– no direct flight to Phuket from Manila. It’s a 3 hour flight to Bangkok and a connecting 1 hour flight to Phuket. Laguna Phuket is 20 minutes away from the airport. Travel time is half a day at best. I’d recommend you stop over in Bangkok—shop, eat Pad Thai, and get a Thai massage—before heading to sunny Phuket.
– race bib design needs improvement

TBR VERDICT
If you’re looking for a run destination abroad, particularly an affordable one around Asia, Laguna Phuket Marathon is a race I would highly recommend. Don’t expect all the bells and whistles or the crowds of a Standard Chartered Singapore or Hong Kong Marathon. But, you can expect a relatively small, friendly, and well-organized race in a venue that will leave you feeling invigorated and inspired to run even more.

———————

I was all set to run the half marathon at Laguna Phuket. Coach Andy told me to run it at race pace. In his words, “Nail it!” So, you cannot imagine how frustrated I was when, the day before my flight to Phuket, I fell ill to intestinal flu. Yes, the works: slight fever, stomach pain, and frequent runs to the toilet. With some meds and tons of fluids, I managed to recover enough to make the flight without any major problems. But, I knew I wasn’t well enough to race a 21k. It was with a heavy heart (and restless legs) that I downgraded my race to a 10.5k run.

If I was anywhere else, I would’ve been distraught. But, man oh man, I was just happy to be where I was. Our resort, Angsana, was one of the best resorts I’ve stayed in (reminded me of Shangrila Boracay) and just to have the opportunity to run in a new place no matter the distance was, in my opinion, something to be thankful for.

– View from my balcony at Angsana where I hung out as I deliberated between a half or 10.5k run –

– Loved Angsana Laguna Phuket! Yes, that baby elephant was hanging out at the pool and lobby –

I arrived at the assembly area 30 minutes before race start. 10.5k runners totaled 1,661 in number. This was the largest group among other distances.

I sat by the Timex booth and watched everyone: younger runners had their moms as their “cheerleaders” and photographers, foreigners in groups chatting and laughing, and more serious runners warming up on the road running back and forth.

The race started exactly on time. The roads were a little bit wet from the earlier rain. The sky was overcast. Perfect for a short and easy run for me, I thought.

– Off we go! –

I ran through the roads of Phuket with camera in hand. The course was relatively flat and fast (a great PR course in my opinion), but with my condition, I decided to enjoy the sights and sounds of Laguna Phuket instead.

Majority of the route allowed us to run through lush greenery or pass scenic views.  There were little or no vehicles.  Most of the time, we ran in silence.

There are always a few attractions at a race and Laguna Phuket was no exception.  Some runners came in their colorful costumes.

Things got even better when we entered Laguna Homes. It was peaceful and beautiful here. Looking forward, I could see the runners ahead of me marching like tiny ants through the zigzag roads. To my left and right was the vast expanse of the golf course.

Organizers provided very cold hydration and fruits at certain stations.  There were a lot of cold sponges too. I think I used up over 10 sponges for a 10km run!

At around the 4km mark, I ran behind a mother-son tandem. The boy was 10 years old and he ran in pace with his mom. At times, he would struggle to keep up and he’d hold out his hand to her. Each and every time, she would respond immediately, clasping his little hand in hers and, almost instantly, he would find his rhythm again. There were times she would gently fix his hair while running as it fell over his eyes, or she would give him a little kiss almost to say he was doing a great job. I was touched and, at the same time, worried about the little boy: how long could he keep this up?

By around 6km, I was feeling weak because of my illness. The course was beautiful and, half the time, I wished I had been well enough to run it fast. The other half I was just hoping the finish line would be near.  Still, the race was enjoyable and fun even for an ill runner like me!

I almost made a right turn when I saw this. I thought it was made especially for me (and the rest of our TBR Dream Marathoners)…

Almost made a pit stop here…

Seriously considered this one too…

And, it took a lot of energy out of me to resist the temptation to just head home to my super cozy hotel room…

Soon enough, we neared the finish. We entered this area with a lagoon to our right. It was definitely a great way to end the race, especially for the 42km runners.  This was definitely my favorite part of the race course.

I was still running behind the mother and son. At no time did the little boy slow down. In fact, in the last kilometer, he started to sprint. (To think I was worried about him!) They crossed the finish line right before I did and I shook the mom’s hand congratulating them both. That little boy was a fighter…and I believe he’ll grow up to be one strong athlete.  At no point was I even able to overtake them. Wow.

I finished at a relaxed 1 hour 7 minutes. On any other day, I would’ve ranted about the awful time. But, who was I to complain, I just ran through paradise!

– Great medal for an awesome race!  –

The post race area was brimming with free food and drinks and offered free massage for runners. I took the free shuttle back to the hotel, enjoyed a light snack at my balcony, and later treated my body to a massage at the Angsana Spa.  Aaah, what a great day in paradise!

Click to read Part 2: Laguna Phuket International Marathon – Race Expo

Brooks Run Happy 2 is set on June 3 at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig!

Registration Fee: P500 (6K), P650 (12K), P750 (21K)

Race Kit Inclusions & Privileges:
– Brooks Limited Edition Singlet
– Race Bib with barcode
– Race Map
– Baggage Deposit Service
– FREE GU gel for 12k, & 21k runners
– FREE Bananas for all 12K & 21k runners

– Brooks Run Happy 2 Singlet. Nice! –

Race Organizer: Without Limits + Pro Active

Great Treats & Surprises:
– Interactive Booths for families & kids – sports games, inflatables, photo booth & more
– Booth Exhibit from top running brands. Enjoy up to 50% off on selected Brooks running items during that day!
– Video Gait Analysis
– FREEBIES & RAFFLE PRIZES from our generous sponsors

HOW TO REGISTER:

STORE REGISTRATION –

Register at:
A. RUNNR
– B3, Bonifacio High Street, Taguig
– 2F Trinoma Mall, Quezon City
– 2F New Wing, Alabang Town Center
B. Toby’s Sports
– GF Shangri-La Plaza
– GF SM Mall of Asia
– 3F SM North The Block
– 3F Glorietta 4

ONLINE REGISTRATION –

Download registration form HERE.

Then Deposit Fee at:
Bank Name: Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
Account Type: Peso Savings
Account No: 3933-0339-36
Account Name: Sports Resources, Inc.
Email/ fax deposit slip to together with your printed registration form with the waiver signed; or fax to (02) 651-7750 email to Roldan.macasaquit@tobys.com

Online registrants may claim their race kits at a nearby RUNNR/ Toby’s outlets or may claim them a day before at RUNNR Bonifacio High Street.

Registration Deadline: May 27

ASSEMBLY TIME AND GUN START:
Assembly / Gun Time
21k – 4:00 am / 4:30 am
12k – 4:45 am / 5:30 am
6k – 4:45 am / 5:40 am

PRIZES:

Champion / 1st Place / 2nd Place
21 K – P10,000 / P7,500 / P5,000
12K – P7,500 / P5,000 / P3,000
6K – P5,000 / P3,000 / P2,000

Note:
* Aside from cash prizes, winners will receive special awards and other prizes
* Only 21k finishers will receive limited edition Finisher’s medal

21k Course

12k Course

6k Course

For inquiries and updates, check out the Facebook page of Brooks (Brooks Running Philippines) or call Brooks hotline at 0927-875-6671.

TBR CONTEST:

Now, for the best part, get a chance to win one of three race kits to Brooks Run Happy 2.  Distance of your choice!

HOW TO JOIN:

1) Like Brooks Running Philippines on FB
2) Like The Bull Runner on FB
3) Post a comment below with an answer to this question:

WHY WOULD YOU BE HAPPY TO RUN BROOKS RUN HAPPY 2?

Include the following info:
– Your complete name
– Your username on FB
– Your preferred distance for the race

CONTEST RULES:
1) Deadline for submission of entries: MONDAY, May 28, 2012 at 11:59 p.m.
2) TBR will choose top 3 best answers among the first 30 submissions.  Each winner will win 1 race kit to Brooks Run Happy 2, distance of his or her choice.
3) Winners must comply with contest rules providing complete information within the contest period.
4) Only one entry per runner. Submission of more than one entry leads to disqualification.
5) All entries will be moderated and will be approved upon closing of the contest.
6) Winner will be announced notified via email on how to claim the prize.

UPDATE: Congrats to the winners! Please expect an email from me today.  Thanks for joining!
Maria Rianne Verzo, 21k
Louie Lopez, 21k
Julito Pauly, 21k

This begins a series of posts about my many adventures (and misadventures) as I train for Ironman Cebu 70.3 on August 5, 2012.  “ROAD TO IM 70.3” will be posted every Monday, but, if I have more to share, I may post another within the week.  This will be a countdown of sorts to race day.  A journal of my training…and all my whining (I’m not sure if you’ll want to hear this), bragging (hey, who else do I share my little achievements with?!), and learnings.

If you are a runner completely uninterested in triathlon, just sit back and enjoy.  You may pick up a thing or two to help your running or you may be inspired to try swimming or cycling or both.  At the very least, you may be entertained with the craziness of triathlon training.

If you are a triathlete, this could be a walk down memory lane as you recall the days when you were once a clueless, unbalanced, inflexible, yelping newbie like me.  Please stop yourself from laughing about my little mishaps or, worse, major idiotic moves.  If you can’t, then run to the bathroom, shut the door, let out a big guffaw, then come back to read more.  Oh, it would be great if you could drop a tip or two for myself and other readers, too.

Now, if you are a runner contemplating on getting into triathlon or hastily signed up for Ironman 70.3 like me, you’ve come to the right place!  Take this journey with me. It’s definitely merrier with more newbie triathletes thinking in unison:  “What the hell did I get myself into?!!”

————————————

COUNTDOWN TO IRONMAN 70.3 CEBU: 10 WEEKS

10 more weeks to Ironman 70.3 Cebu. 5 more weeks to Tri United 2.  My coach, Andy Leuterio, reminded me about this early last week when he emailed me my program. Distances, particularly for the swim and bike, would substantially increase to build up for race day.  I swear my index finger was shaking when I clicked on the mouse to open Coach Andy’s file (which we’ve been tossing back and forth every week as he sends me the program on Monday and I return it filled up every Sunday) entitled: “Jaymie Pizarro’s Battle Plan.”  Total hours of training: 14 hours.

That week is over and I only hit 10 training hours.  Life got in the way you see!  That’s not to say that the week was not filled with things to be proud of or happy about.  Here are many firsts that made this week fantastic for me:

1) First time to ride alone…and I hit 65k!  (I was supposed to ride 100k that day in JalaJala with friends, but my ITBS started acting up. Aaargh!)

2) First time to drink from the internal bladder on the Shiv. (Don’t laugh. I’ve had the Shiv for over a month now, but it’s taken us (me and him) quite some time to get familiar with each other.)

– This is the straw for the Shiv’s internal bladder which makes it accessible while riding –

– Shiv’s internal bladder in the pink circle –

Special thanks to Coach Norman Pascual who allowed me to be saling pusa for a day in his bike skills session at SM MOA. We spent 2 hours going around in circles just to get me and another student, Patty, to get to drink while riding!  While I can drink from the straw, I still need to learn how to drink from the bottle!  Need more bike skill sessions!

– with Coach Norman Pascual, Jun, Rex, Monching, Patty, Tina, Dennis, Weng, and Ruben –

3) First time to attach my Garmin 310XT to the Shiv!  Got myself the Garmin bicycle mount kit (which I’ll be changing to the Quick Release Kit) and the Garmin Speed/Cadence Sensor.

– Garmin 310XT will be for the Shiv now.   I’m using the Garmin Bicycle Mount kit here, but I’ll be changing it to the Quick Release Kit –

– Attached Garmin Speed/Cadence Sensor’s three components: GSC 10, pedal magnet, and spoke magnet –

– Close up of pedal magnet –

Garmin Speed/Cadence Sensor: P3,550
Garmin Bicycle Mount Kit: P1,750

Where to buy:
Navco, 3/F Millennium Place, Meralco Ave. cor J. Vargas Ave. Ortigas Center, Pasig.
Phone: 782-5913 / 571-6716

4) First time to swim this far: 2.5k!  Woot woot!  Don’t ask me to clap though because my arms were extremely exhausted the day after.

5) First time to post on my Road to Ironman 70.3 series!  Here’s to 10 more to go before the big day!

RUNNR presents “RUNNR LAB”, a FREE developmental running clinic in UP Diliman.

Learn about proper running techniques and more from U.S. Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist Coach Edsel Vengco.

Clinic consists of LECTURES & GROUP RUNS.

No need for registration! To join just head on over to the U.P. Diliman grounds (A.S. Parking lot, Palma Hall) on the following dates:
May 20, 7:00 am
June 10, 7:00 am

Freebies and raffle prizes await runners!

Event is powered by Newton, Smith Optics, CW-X, Polar Heart Rate Monitor, Moving Comfort Sports Bras, Fuelbelt & Gu.

For the latest on RUNNR clinics, visit www.runnr.com.ph, facebook.com/RUNNRPhils or follow RUNNR on twitter.com/RUNNRStore