Posts Tagged with: "Runrio"

One of the most popular runs in the country is set to launch the first of its 3 races this coming March!

2014 Run United 1 will be held on March 16, 2014 with 500m, 5k, 10k, and 21k race categories. All categories will have a start and finish at the SM Mall of Asia.

I attended the bloggers’ conference last Monday where Lester of Unilab Active Health unveiled the new theme of Run United for its RunRio trilogy: Citius (faster), Altius (higher), Fortius (stronger), which is the motto of the modern olympics.

For Run United 1, the word “Citius” will…get this…magically appear at the back of your singlet as your start to sweat. (Okay, it’s not magic. The shirt is sweat activated, but it’s cool eh?)  For Run United 2, the theme will be “Altius” and “Fortius” for Run United Philippine Marathon.

– Coach Rio and Lester show off the new singlets for Run United 1. Photo: LeStSky Photography –

The new medals were also presented to us. As in the past years, the completion of all three races, RU1, RU2, and RUPM, will allow you to combine your hard-earned medals to form a single piece.  (I wonder when I’ll ever get one!)

Then, of course, we ended the night with some chit chat and photos as always!

– Bloggers’ Class Pic! Photo: LeStSky Photography –

– Nice to see my running blogger friends again! Photo: LeStSky Photography –

– with my favourite running blogger, Vimz of Kulit Runner. Photo: LeStSky Photography –

Congrats once again to Unilab Active Health and RunRio for constantly “exceeding yourself” and giving us runners bigger and better races to look forward to.

As for you runners, read below for details on race registration. I’ll see you there!

RUN UNITED 1 RACE INFO

Online registration started last January 31, 2014 at www.runrio.com

You may purchase the prepaid cards at the following stores: from 12:00NN to 8:00PM Monday to Sunday starting February 8, 2014.
– Riovana Store BGC, 28th Street corner 9th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
– Riovana Store Katipunan, 3rd Floor Regis Building, Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City (across Ateneo, and beside KFC)
– Toby’s, SM North – The Block G/F, North Ave. cor. EDSA Quezon City
– Toby’s, SM Mall of Asia, G/F Entertainment Hall, Roxas Blvd, Manila

Category – Registration Fee
500m – Php350
5K – Php700
10K – Php800
21K – Php900

For Online and In-Store Registration Inquiries:
– Landline (+632) 463 4813 or (+632) 463 4814
– Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 5pm only, except holidays.

For more info, visit unilabactivehealth.com and runrio.com

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!

– 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.

– 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!)

– 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.

– 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!

– 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.

– 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/

One of the most anticipated races of each year as the Run United races by Unilab Active Health (ULAH) and RunRio Inc. This 2013, ULAH and RunRio urge runners to “exceed themselves” and it seems like they’ve done the same promising even bigger and better events.

– Run United Bloggers’ Night. We’re so many here that even Coach Rio and his hair are hard to find!  Photo: Unilab Active Health –

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO FOR 2013 RUN UNITED SERIES:

1) LONGER DISTANCES

Unilab Active Health and RunRio are now focusing on longer distances.

“We noticed a trend during the previous years’ races that the slots for longer distances get filled up faster. There were instances when we had to open up more slots. So, by focusing on longer distances, we will be able to accommodate more runners,” said Alex Panlilio, Head of Unilab Active Health.

Coach Rio dela Cruz added: “This is in line with our plan to be part of the growth and journey of Filipino runners. It just goes to prove that the local running community is more mature, that is why we also launched the Run United Philippine Marathon (RUPM) last year. Filipino runners have leveled up.”

There will be no more 3km category in Run United, but the 500-meter dash for kids will be retained.

2) BETTER SINGLETS

Run United singlets will be using a new moisture-wicking fabric designed to help improve the performance and comfort of the runners.

– Run United 1 Singlet –

– Run United 1 Finisher’s Shirt –

3) NEW MEDALS

Just like last year’s medal, this year runners who complete all three races may piece the three medals together like a puzzle. But, the look is now entirely different!

– The United Medal for those who finish RU1 21k, RU2 21k, and RUPM 42k –

RUN UNITED RACE SCHEDULE AND CATEGORIES:
Run United 1: March 17, 2013 – 5km, 10km and 21km
Run United 2: June 2, 2013 – 10km, 21km, and 32km
Run United Philippine Marathon – October 6, 2013 – 10km, 21km and 42km

For triathletes, Unilab Active Health also offers the duathlon and triathlon events:

TRI UNITED RACE SCHEDULES AND CATEGORIES:
Tri United 1 2013: March 10, 2013, Playa Laiya, Batangas
Tri United 2 2013: July 7, 2013, Playa Laiya, Batangas
Tri United 3 2013: October 26-27, 2013, Subic
Tri United 4 2013: November 24, 2013, Ayala Alabang

DUATHLON
Unilab Active Health Duathlon: September 8, 2013, SCTEX, Clark, Pampanga.

For more details please visit www.unilabactivehealth.com.

Event: Run United 2
Date: 17 June 2012
Venue: SM Mall of Asia/ Bonifacio Global City
Race Organizer: Runrio

TBR Rating:

Run United events are one of the most highly anticipated events of the year. It is always expected to draw large crowds and yesterday’s race, Run United 2, despite the onslaught of Typhoon Butchoy, was no exception. Over 14,000 runners gathered at SM Mall of Asia for the 3k, 5k, and 10k events and at Bonifacio High Street for 21k. The half marathon event alone could have been a race in itself with over 5,000 runners participating and subsequently released in various waves to control the traffic.

The organization of the race was almost flawless, as expected from Runrio events. Considering that the organizers struggled with the challenges of the pouring rain, the race went on with the safety and comfort of runners prioritized.

The 21k race course starting at Bonifacio Global City and ending in SM Mall of Asia was unique and fun. While it could’ve been a logistical problem for some runners, organizers provided shuttles for the runners thus making the minor hassles insignificant if only to run a more interesting course.

Hydration was overflowing; water was cold while Powerade was provided (it could’ve been colder though and, sorry, but Gatorade just really tastes a lot better for me.) Bananas and sponges were also provided in several stations. Medical aid was offered at various stations. Considering the number of runners, the traffic was controlled and release of runners, done in waves, was a practical move. Marshals efficiently manned intersections, especially when vehicles were honking or worse, attempting to break through the course. Kilometer markers were accurate, but there were a number of missing kilometer markers by the end of the 21k. I was told these were pulled out due to the strong winds.

Turns out that the weather was a blessing in disguise. The strong rains weakened, and later on, completely dissipated to provide runners with a cool and windy run and an enjoyable post-race atmosphere with live bands and activities prepared by Unilab Active Health.

Congrats again to Unilab Active Health and Runrio, two companies that pull out all the stops to provide runners with a great event! See you at Run United 3.

———————-

I was supposed to race the 21k at Run United 2, but since I was just recovering from my week-long bout with intestinal flu and I biked my longest ever ride the day before, I thought I’d just run at a good effort and enjoy the half marathon.

Wow, the weather was perfect! Ton and I arrived at the assembly area to find over 5,000 runners braving the rain. When the race started, it was just a slight drizzle; just enough to keep you cool without soaking those shoes and causing blisters!

Almost everyone in running were there. Most of us were catching up and chatting that, before we knew it, we were at the last wave (actually at the very end) of the 21k runners. Soon, we were off. Ton and I ran together at an easy pace.

By 8k, at Buendia, we decided to part ways. I turned my iPod on and enjoyed every minute of the run. I can honestly tell you that time flew from then on. I lost myself in the rhythm of my footsteps, enjoyed the breeze at Roxas Boulevard, and savored every moment I was out there. I didn’t push too hard but neither did I take it too slow. It was just right. Just perfect, in fact.

– Wore my old Nike Frees for the first time in a 21k! Loved it. Photo courtesy of Jobert de la Victoria –

I didn’t even get my time when I ended. I must’ve gotten in at around 2:15 to 2:20. Who really cared? What mattered was that it was so much fun!

– Posing with the medal but really just thinking about breakfast. Photo courtesy of Tina Zamora –

Event: RUN UNITED 1
Date: March 4, 2012
Venue: SM Mall of Asia

RACE CATEGORIES AND FEES:

• 500M Ceelin Run – P350
• 3K – P600
• 5K Dolfenal Run – P700
• 10K Enervon Run – P800
• 21K Enervon HP Run – P900

REGISTRATION:

• Jan. 30 to Feb 19, 2012 – Start of ONLINE registration – www.runrio.com
• Jan 30 to Feb 26, 2012 – In Store Registration Partners – Riovana Store BGC, Riovana Store Katipunan, Toby’s, The Athletes Foot, Unilab Special Registration until Feb 17, 2012
• Discount Scheme, 10% discount for series registration

PRESS RELEASE

A Running Start for Unilab Active Health
Run United 1 on March 4 offers a number of firsts

The 2012 Unilab ActiveHealth calendar is off to a raring start, as the registration for its first event this year—Run United 1 on March 4—picks up pace. On its sixth offing, Run United 1 continues to reinvent itself. It is set to once again offer runners a number of firsts.

“This is our first hurrah this year and we very pleased with the enthusiastic response so far from the running community. Registration, both online and in selected stores, is rapidly picking up. We are looking forward to another active year,” said Alex Panlilio, Head of Unilab Active Health. Run United 1 will still feature five race categories: Ceelin 500m dash for kids, 3k, 5K, Enervon 10K, and Enervon HP 21K.

Organizers Unilab Active Health and RunRio Inc. are introducing several new features to give participants a better running experience. These include new race routes, better hydration stations, improved security, safety marshals, new freebies, more exciting ActiveHealth village, among others.

– RU United Singlet for adults. The kids have their own singlets too –

– Free race belts for everyone –

Starting this year, the RunRio Trilogy/Run United Series of races will have different registration or pre-race giveaways. For Run United 1, it will be a race belt or bib holder. Even the medals for 21K finishers are made more special. It will be a collectible medal, thus those who will participate all of the three Run United races during the year, can put together all their finisher medals and form a big Run United medal.

– Run United 1 Medal –

– Philippine Marathon Medal. I would hate to have a “donut” medal if I run the Phil. Marathon and fail to complete the other 3 Run United races. Perhaps RunRio and Unilab can figure out a solution for this? –

– Finishers of all RU races and Philippine Marathon complete a puzzle to form this medal –

“The joint Run United medals will serve as a true testament of the runners’ commitment to an active and healthy lifestyle. It is a good souvenir of all their 2012 Run United races combined,” said Lester Castillo, brand manager of Active Health.

Besides the new medals, half marathoners will have their gun start at Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig and finish off at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

“We are very excited about the Run United races this year because we have so much in store for the runners. We are introducing a number of new features to give them even better quality runs because that is what Run United is all about,” said Rio dela Cruz of RunRio Inc.

Children also get to have their own singlet, too. After all, Run United prides itself for having the first to introduce a 500-meter dash in its races. “We really like to get the children get started in running young. So besides the other unique giveaways for them, the singlet is another come-on for them,” cited Dela Cruz.

Interested runners can register at these stores: Riovana at Bonifacio Global City and Katipunan, Quezon City; Toby’s at SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City; and The Athlete’s Foot at Robinson’s Galleria, Ortigas. For online registration, check details at www.runrio.com. Registration is until February 26, but race kits may run out before then, so the organizers urge everyone to register early to secure slots.

Run United is for the benefit of Gawad Kalusugan (the health program of Gawad Kalinga) and Hero Foundation. “Run United is part of Unilab’s advocacy through Unilab Active Health to promote an active lifestyle among Filipino families. Each event has been carefully designed and scheduled with the help of the race organizers and experts to allow each participant to sustain their active lifestyles throughout the year. We would like to thank all those who continue to support the Active Health programs” said Alex Panlilio, Head of Unilab Active Health.

Run United 1 is only the first of the Run United series. Run United 2 is set for June 17 and Run United 3 on September 16. Run United’s very own full marathon or 42K race, the Run United Philippine Marathon, is also slated for October 28.

The following are the other events of Unilab Active Health lined up for this year: The Bull Runner Dream Marathon, March 18; Tri United 1, April 14-15; Tri United 2, June 30-July 1; Tri United 3, November 10-11 as well as running and triathlon clinics all year round.

For more inquiries on Run United and Active Health, check out these websites: www.unilabactivehealth.com andwww.runrio.com as well as their respective fan pages on Facebook and Twitter.