POST-CM50 RD THOUGHTS

December 2, 2013, 1:25 am

≫ Next: 2014

NEW EVOLUTION

The initial title that came to my mind is a race report but then I realized why would I use that title given I did not toe the line. There is also a realization that most RDs do not write reports on races in which they themselves directed or organized. I wonder why.

The purpose of this post is to somehow document what happened behind the scene. So this is more of a diary to me than anything else (I need to go back writing again in this blog just like the old days instead of posting in FB. Articles here have more of my personal touch and there is no need for "likes".)

CM50 actually started with CM42 last October in terms of prepping the runners for the longer and harder CM50. The past few editions have seen runners DNFed big time during CM50. Take for example, the first edition had seen a 70% mortality rate while last year was more than 40% and this year is more than 30%. Partly because runners do not train properly for it, underestimate the course, lack of respect for the distance and terrain or just plain cocky. It is only 80K but the terrain and time constraint can be unforgiving for those who do not respect and train for it. During the first edition, I heard runners exclaim words of bewilderment and disbelief as to the type of terrain CM50 offers to them.

So I have decided to "ease in" the runners by offering the shorter distance of CM42 (full and half marathons). The result was good except the weather before and during the race made our lives (my life actually ... miserable) challenging, to say the least.

On the other hand, we are now seeing an evolution in the ultrarunning scene here - runners voluntarily offering their time and attention in a race just like in races abroad. I was surprised to see and glad to have Team Boring during the 1st edition and then during CM42, Roadeaters Running Club and other members of running groups like Ayala Triads were there and other countless volunteers who braved the rain, cold and whatnot. For CM50, all of us were glad to have Team Lihukan to be posted at Aid Station 1 (AS1), Roadeaters Running Club (again) at AS2, Ayala Triads at AS3 and finally, Team Boring at the busiest station, AS4. Individually, I'd like to thank Iris Torculas, Aileen Manaat, Dennis Cumal (photographer) and our web admin, Brian and also Jerry. The first 3 individuals were with me before the race and after it finally ended. More or less 24 hours. Yeah, that long! So folks let's give it up for them. Woo hoo!

I think their presence during the race at every aid station gave CM50 a different feel and dynamics to it.

FEEDBACK

I knew the race was far from perfect and it sort of like taking a risk by inviting comments (more like cusses) or feedback from runners AFTER the race. So I was not surprised to hear reactions mostly from runners who DNFed at AS1 and AS2. They endured countless hours waiting for vehicle to transport them to Finish Line. No excuses and as RD I take full responsibility. I just wish the drivers of 4x4 vehicles would have informed me that they were leaving after packing up AS3 and AS4 which in the process forgetting AS1 and AS2. This goes to show that, it seems, there is always something that goes wrong in a race beyond the control of the organizer. I think the focus then is to control what one can and not things beyond his control. At any rate, it was a learning process for me as RD. So next year, there will be standby vehicle for each station. It will sure add cost to our logistics but it is irrelevant when the safety of the runners is to be considered. Other comments are on blinkers and generally on markings, supplies and other host of equally important stuff. These will all be incorporated in 2014. So thank you.

One thing I found very important and sensitive on my part is to make sure there was enough food for the volunteers and runners who waited at the different aid stations when they got back to Clark. To that end, we are grateful to Atty. James Roldan for the pizzas (not just any pizza. They were Yellow Cab) and the lechon from Pozzurobio Runners c/o Dennis Uy. I knew they were hungry and cold and food would help to alleaviate their condition and ... anger also somehow perhaps. As RD, you think AAAALLL of these stuff until the last runner and volunteers are accounted for ... which leads me to the topic below.

HALLUCINATION

When all the runners have packed up and started leaving together with the volunteers, the last person to leave was the RD and also in this case the security guard on the night shift (simply because it is his post where some of the race supplies and equipments would be placed for pick up the next day.

After having paid the crew (none volunteers) of what was due them, I still had to bring my 2 Aeta crew to their home in Porac. These two had invested hundreds of hours on the trail, clearing, marking and all. One was posted at the hill with rope section (between AS1 and AS2) while the other made sure the entire width of Pasig-Potrero River bed was well lit and marked.

As soon as I got inside my vehicle, the sudden onset of fatigue and stress came over me. While driving, I started seeing things or more like hallucinating ... seeing animals on SCTEX highway or image of trucks where there was none. I kept on regularly slapping my cheeks to jolt me from closing my eyes and naturally I drove so slowly. The cool crisp night weather that Sunday added comfort or more like misery to my condition. I had to beg off my crew if they could get down (2nd tunnel to Sapang Uwak) where they could walk to their respective house. I had to reserve enough energy to get home safely. Driving on city streets proved to be nerve-wracking. My visual acuity could not be counted on anymore as there were countless vehicles to reckon with. It was a miracle I got home unscathed. Last year it was ok but not this year. No sleep at all.

I will continue hosting and directing CM50 race series simply because I love this sport and the people who participate and help in it.

Cheers,
RD Jon (crossing his fingers for Hardrock 100, take 2 in the lottery)

↧

2014

December 5, 2013, 12:45 am

≫ Next: 2013 FAT ASS Guidelines

≪ Previous: POST-CM50 RD THOUGHTS

With my role as RD for CM race series (CM50 and CM42) behind me, I can concentrate now on what I love best - RUNNING.

I have been running almost everyday since CM50 and 2014 proves to be an exciting year again. I have been looking at my race calendar and it appears to be a very busy schedule until July 2014 (then the second half of 2014 is prepping for CM races and perhaps 1 or 2 races for me). To start off, FAT ASS is slated on 4-5 January 2014. As organizer, I'll try to keep things simple this time so I can run as well. Then on 19 January 2014, I have a sub-2 hours 21k road pacing duty at a local race here. These are all in preparation for my 2nd year at HARDCORE 100 MILE race on 21-22 February 2014. No objective here to race unlike last year when I placed 2nd (almost won but it is another story) except to improve my time and get whipped on once again by the sheer difficulty of the race. I wonder how many will run this race again given its notoriety (pun intended).

After Hardcore, I'll take a brief rest and focus on TNF100 on 3-4 May 2014 - my 6th year of running out of 7 and am planning to continue doing so. This time, it is one of my goal races for 2014. I want to race and compete with some of the best in the country and see how I'll fare in the ranking. It should be exciting.

Lastly, HARDROCK 100 on 11 July 2014 in San Juan, Colarado. This is my dream race along with UTMB, etc. One epic race in my book! Last year, I did not make it in the lottery that is why I ended up doing the Bighorn 100 with Rick Gaston and his friends. So hopefully this time things will turn out lucky for me and Simon Sandoval who is also entered to represent the Philippines as well in 2014. Registration ended last 01 December 2014.

In between FAT ASS and HARDROCK 100, I am planning to join a marathon or two, FOUR LAKES 100, MT. UGO MARATHON and/or SKYATHLON. So these are add ons depending on how my body is feeling and my mood as well. Planning to climb some new mountains also that I have not been to like Mt. Tapulao. I or we might as well take advantage of the good weather for the next several months.

Road marathon is beginning to appeal to me again for some reason after years of hiatus. If only I can replace my road shoes soon. The pair has sentimental value because it won the 2012 BDM 102 en route to then the new course record. I wonder what will be a good pair this time?

Cheers,

RD Jon (enjoying the cool December weather in his every run)

↧

2013 FAT ASS Guidelines

December 3, 2012, 1:26 am

≫ Next: 2013 FAT ASSers

≪ Previous: 2014

Happy Holidays, folks!

Here we go again! Below is the set of guidelines and other useful information. Please read them carefully.

DETAILS

Categories: 24, 12 and 6 hours (NO MORE 36 hours)

When: 5-6 January 2013
Start: (No irregular start time please)

Start: 24 hours- 6AM of 05 January to 6AM of 06 January 2013

12 hours - 6AM or 6PM of 05 January 2013

6 hours - 6AM, 12 noon and 6PM of 05 January or 12 midnight of

6January 2013

Where:              Clark Parade Ground, Clark Freeport Zone, Philippines
Course:              Asphalt and grass loopof 2.2kms
Weather:           Cool in the evening and morning but hot around noontime
Registration fee:  not applicable, zero, nada, zilch
Registration process: First registration, first entry basis through the comment section below.
Awards:             2013 FAT ASS Kings and Queens for each category

NOTE:

DONATION

LIMIT = Maximum of 400 participants SUBJECT to availability of at least FOUR (4) portalets which is tied up to our permit to use the venue (hygiene issue). Payment for portalets will be shouldered collectively by the participants through their cash donation. No portalets will mean less number of runners allowed since the comfort room at the Tennis Court can only accommodate so much number of runners. We were able to raise enough amount last year, so I am confident it can be done this year.  We also need to raise some amount to pay for 1 timer or clock and the services of our utility boys who make sure everything is in order and to clean the the comfort room for 24 hours!

CR = Course Record

36 HOURS 2012 FAT ASS KING & QUEEN	# of Loops Completed	Total Distance Km.
Rubio, Randy (Ranne)	81	178.2 (CR)
Magtibay, Ma. Jhustine Dolor (Jade) - Female	38	83.6 (CR)

24 HOURS 2012 FAT ASS KING & QUEEN	# of Loops Completed	Total Distance Km.
Diaz, Dindo (Dindo)	57	125.4
Reblora, Aleth - Female	48	105.6 CR

12 HOURS 2012 FAT ASS KING & QUEEN	# of Loops Completed	Total Distance Km.
Balaba, Benedict (Dick)	42	92.4 (CR)
Fule, Keisha (Keisha) - Female	33	72.6

6 HOURS 2012 FAT ASS KING & QUEEN	# of Loops Completed	Total Distance Km.
Green, Julie (Jules) – Female	28	61.6 CR
Miranda, Simon (Simon) (more info below)	23	50.6 (CR)

MAPS: Please check the above map on how to get to the venue.

The Map below shows where to park and camp. No camping on the other side of the tennis court. So this means, camping and parking are only allowed on the left of the tennis court when facing it from the Parade.

GUIDELINES

NATURE OF FAT ASS:

This is not your typical race (this is not even a race) where you pay for the registration fees, run the distance you choose and get some rewards as a matter of right like medals or shirts or both after the race. Fat Ass is basically an organized run. It is pretty summed up in: NO FEES, NO AWARDS, NO AID, NO WIMPS (http://www.coolrunning.com.au/fatass/joeoakes.shtml). May we add also, NO WHINING, NO PRESSURE, NO HASSLE. And since no fee is collected to join this event, participants should think twice before comparing or complaining. Even the donation you want to make does not give rise to any demandable right as it is basically done on your own volition. Thus, all prior thoughts, concepts or comparison of what Fat Ass is to a race should be banished from one’s mind. What we can guarantee though are CAMARADERIE and FUN!

DIRECTION & LOOP: Start of the run for 24-hour runners will be counterclockwise and every 6 hours, runners will have to reverse their loop. Runners joining the 12 and 6 hour runs, will be in counterclockwise and clockwise directions, respectively. In this way, all runners will be going the same direction and can pace or keep each other's company. Most importantly, this direction will have the sun behind the runners. The loop (see image below) is covered by trees on both sides.

COURTESY TO NON-FAT ASS RUNNERS USING THE SAME LOOP: Clark Parade Ground is a public place and thus, there will be non-FAT ASS runners using the same loop during the early morning and late afternoon of Saturday and even more on the 2nd day (Sunday). These are locators, residents, non-competitive runners (who perhaps have never joined a race) and joggers who just want to exercise. Some of the runners will be with their family and children playing and/or out on a picnic at the same venue. Please be courteous when passing them. A simple "Excuseme" or "Passing" will suffice. Do not be rude. We do not want any complaint from them and risk subsequent editions of FAT ASS being banned. The sight, however, of these joggers, children, sports enthusiasts, et. al. will lend a family-feel to our event and make you run stronger, faster. At least, that was our experience. Who knows these non-FAT ASS runners might be motivated to take up running as part of their lifestyle when they see us having fun.

Moreover, we will not tolerate unruly, disruptive, annoying and/or noisy behavior during the event. Team or group leaders are advised to watch over their teammates and friends. Anyone found violating this courtesy rule will be bodily removed from the venue and banned from subsequent editions of Fat Ass.

KEEP THE NOISE DOWN: You, your friends and crew can hold a BBQ party (the smell of which makes every runner salivate :), have a few drinks and have fun but keep the volume low. No rowdy and unruly behavior. This is self-explanatory. While you are at it, cheer on the runners as they pass by.

KEEP THE AREA CLEAN: Used gel wraps and other garbage/litters must be disposed of properly. We should know any better. All runners and crew must clean the area where they camped after the event.

RUNNING AT NIGHT: Some sections of the loop are not well lit. Runners may want to bring their headlamps as the loop is uneven asphalt lane. Please be careful at night by watching your footing.

RUN “nickname” BIB: All runners are required to provide and create their own unique run bib with their nickname before the event. Bib is uniform in size: 10x6 inches of any material (except paper because it will dissolve in sweat). RED for 24 hours, BLUE for 12 hours and GREEN for 6 hours on a white background. This must be worn at all times. The reason for this is simply to carry on the tradition of FAT ASS for the past 3 years and that is camaraderie. In the last 3 editions, we almost all knew each other's name. We cannot achieve this however if we are all strangers during the 4th edition. Again, your bib will contain your nickname in the designated color. No run bib, no runpolicy will be enforced.

CHECKPOINT: There will be only 1 checkpoint. Runners' loops will be recorded on log sheets. Log sheets will be the official records. All runners will log in their time/loop every time they reach the checkpoint. All entries will be countersigned by the organizer or authorized staff. Entries with no countersign of the organizers will not be counted. Please call the attention of the organizer or any of the volunteers on this. So it will be the primary responsibility of each runner to make their loops official and counted. No "dagdag-bawas" or padding.

MUSIC: Just like last year, a sound system blaring energetic/rock/lively/tempo songs will be played for 24-hours especially during the late evening and wee hours in the morning. If you want any song included, please email me or bring your iPod or CD during the race. Discretion will be exercised by the organizer.
*

FOOD & FLUID DONATION: Runners are encouraged to donate foods and fluids. These will be placed on a table near the checkpoint. All donations will be duly recorded and acknowledged. Please call our attention before doing so. NOTE: The foods and fluids on the table are not meant to sustain the runners during the entire duration of his chosen event. These are just "additions". For emphasis, runners will be responsible to bring their own food for himself and his crew, if any, for the entire duration of the run. Please observe this rule properly. Also, the organizer reserves the right to manage this donation as they deem fit for the benefit of the runners especially those on longer events.

CASH DONATION: Ideally, it should be done before the event. This way we can order the necessary items and equipments (tents, timer, tents, chairs, etc.) and settle the expenses also. For those who want to donate in advance, please use this: Jonnifer M. Lacanlale, Security Bank, Acct. No. 0273-442218-200. We would appreciate if you could scan and email the deposit slip to atty.jonnifer@gmail.com. Thank you. Others can donate during the event proper. Just like in the past events, we will provide donation box and log book.

PACER: Pacers are NOT allowed. Only registered Fat Assers can run along with co-Fat Assers but they are prohibited to carry anything for the runner to encourage self-sufficiency. No need to carry anything anyway since it is only a 2.2k loop.

BANDIT:Bandits are not allowed. Please respect the event.

TENT: Runners can put up their own tents if they so wish ideally in the designated area as shown in the map. Several tents however will be put up and runners can use them. Please share the same with other runners as these are limited in numbers.

RESTROOM & PORTALETS: The Tennis Court restroom will be opened. Per Clark regulation, we are also required to provide at least four (4) portalets due to the number of Fat Assers in the 2013 edition. Some have already pledged monetary support. So thank you. Do we need to tell the guys not to pee beside a tree or anywhere else for that matter? Please use the restroom and portapotties properly.

BREAK: Runners can always take a break and even sleep but should bring their own sleeping mat, etc. Organizers do not mind how you spend your breaks. You can watch a movie, play casino (others did this!), crosstrain like biking, swimming, shop at the duty free stores, etc. We do not mind at all. It is your call. Runners who take a break and leave the designated loop will have to return to the same spot before proceeding again. If your break will take longer as usual, please advise the organizer accordingly.

PARKING LOT: The designated parking lot is the only area where all runners and their respective crew should park their own vehicles which is very convenient for runners. This is just a few feet away from the checkpoint.

SECURITY: Please do not be lax. Always secure your belongings even if you are in the company of fellow runners. It is your obligation to protect your properties even if there are security guards in the area. Organizer, crew and volunteers will not be answerable for loss or damage to Fat Assers' properties.

GEAR: It is cold during the night and early morning in January… at least in Clark. So plan accordingly.

CERTIFICATE: This will be on best-effort basis (depending on the amount of donation). So no promises. Certificates may be given at the end of the event on 06 January 2013 after the awarding.

LAST LOOP BEFORE CUT-OFF TIME: The last completed loop before the cut-off time for each category will be considered as the official recorded loop. Uncompleted loop will not be counted.

DRINKING BOTTLES, CUPS, ETC: To avoid unnecessary trash during the event, runners will have to bring their own bottles, cups (for coffee), etc. and use them for refill. We have seen too many plastic litters (cups, bottles) during and after running events. It is time to help the environment.

RUNNING CLUBS' BANNERS/TARPAULINS: Running clubs or groups whose members are joining the event may hoist their banners near the checkpoint for promotional purposes. Please coordinate with the organizer before doing this. Banners of corporate sponsors will have to be approved by race organizers.

COMMEMORATIVE SHIRT: More details later on how to order.

MONETARY DONATION FOR UTILITY PERSONNEL: Please feel free to donate cash for our at least four (4) hired utility boys. Just like the last 2 editions, we pooled our resources just so we could pay them justly as they were up the whole 24 hours and beyond. It made our jobs easier and the runners happier. Please note that they would be away from their families and in essence, working. Their tasks are to clean the area during and after the event, run some errands, bring back the site into its original condition which includes dismantling what needs to be dismantled, etc. Thus, it is only just and proper that they should be reasonably paid. Names of donor will be duly acknowledged and again, organizer reserves the right to manage this donation as they deem fit.

So see you soon!

Cheers,

Jon

↧

2013 FAT ASSers

December 4, 2012, 12:52 am

≫ Next: Final List of 2013 FAT ASSers and New Guidelines

≪ Previous: 2013 FAT ASS Guidelines

This is an all-time high number of participants! Within 5 hours from its opening, the slots were filled up fast and furious! We, however, have reached over and above the 200 cap. Again, run organizer reserves the right to trim down the number of participants subject to availability of portalets, etc. Please post in the comment section below if you are helping with the expenses for portapotties, utility personnel, tents, chairs, timer, etc. By doing so, we can perhaps accommodate all the runners in the list. No need to mention the amount. We have a log book for that during the event.Thank you.

24 hours - 80
12 hours - 165
6 hours - 102
_________________

TOTAL = 347

For any correction, please post it in the comment section below (under moderation now). Runners only have 1 chance to change their category after which it is final (because we are implementing an innovative way to record loops of runners). Deadline is on or before 15 December 2012. Here is the list:

2013 FAT ASS Participants

24 HOURS

12 HOURS

6 HOURS

1.CJ Paran
2.Thea Sangrador
3.Leo Tugade
4.Jay De Jesus
5.Simon Miranda
6.Reuben Miranda
7.Raul Tapia
8.Mar Tomas
9.Rene Miranda
10.Marc Philip Ellazo
11.Kharl Ocampo
12.Lyra Rosario
13.Napoleon Ocampo
14.Maxell Flores
15.Jess Agoo
16.Judy Aguilar
17.Maan Estanislao
18.Sarah Oinal
19.Ariane Legarte
20.Ronel Medina
21.Jerome Jamili
22.Ramil delos Reyes
23.Bernard Ilaga
24.Alan Tauyan
25.Jayson King Tan
26.Christian Francia
27.Carmeli Anne Ortega
28.Stephanie Hefti
29.Evelyn Mondragon-Lopez
30.Ceres Nido
31.Bong Alindada
32.Tholits Hernandez
33.Christian Oting
34.Marc Conrad Molina
35.Kim Maurice Flores
36.Barry Red
37.Hermie Saludes
38.Rizal Boy Ortega
39.Klein Chua
40.Raymund Canta
41.James Garcia
42.Puto Pao
43.Krishna Hernandez
44.Lanie Lubay
45.Shiela Martinez
46.Jhey Lapuz
47.Mean Manalansan
48.Ian Stevenson Yu
49.Jsin Starks
50.Rod Gotos
51.Art Virata
52.Irene Ong
53.Hanna Rose Pua
54.Susan Jael
55.Albert Salazar
56.Francis Santiago
57.Alex Jones
58.Trodge Lorenzo
59.Nicolas De Leon
60.Jhon Magcalas
61.Liza Paule
62.Ronaldo Robles
63.Bong Leaño
64.Edwin Vicente
65.Reginald Santos
66.Bong Bernadez
67.McCoy Lontoc
68.Wesley Noel Orana
69.Michelle Angela Maravilla
70.Brian Tan Seng
71.Joen Soriao
72.Norberto Mortel
73.Dindo Diaz
74.Dennis Chavez
75.Juvy Pagtalunan
76.Richard P. Toledo
77.Vivian Cerrer–Toledo
78.Elmar Bob Tolete
79.Peachy Tamayo
80.Carlito Buenaventura
81. David Aquino
82. Tess Miranda

1.Daphne Rose Codilla
2.Allan Ray Enriquez
3.Doodsie Mallari
4.Edmund Cornelius Manlangit
5.Richal Paul Maling
6.Jessica Tiu-Laurel
7.Samuel Tiu
8.Ruth Ann Tiu
9.Mich Crisol De Ocampo
10.Ron Cabanlig
11.James Lee Escasinas
12.Jill Magbanua Alcibar
13.Ronald Rey Cruz
14.Jon Las Bruce
15.Sharon Sandoval
16.JB Pacia
17.Leigha Pacia
18.Jeyson De Ocampo
19.Bheng Maaliw
20.Ron Maaliw
21.Allan Gregor Bulos
22.Mark Anthony Diaz
23.Andrew Llanes
24.Jhunbie C. Serna
25.Angelito Hernandez
26.Jomelo Zagala
27.Rexcie Jane Saldivar
28.Joseph Pineda
29.Quintin Atienza II
30.Iris Rivera
31.Jonathan Villasin
32.Hendy Cheung
33.Reese Rogel
34.Phillip Fiarod
35.Ramie John Tuando
36.Jesus Llarena
37.Perkins Briones
38. John Brian Pacia
39.Leigha Pacia
40.Francis Señores
41.Orlando Picardo
42.Merwin Ilagan
43.Marcelino Abaya
44.Danny Yamio
45.DIno Yamio
46.Jhet Yamio
47.Rommel Damo
48.Jhey Lapuz
49.Juan David
50.Jun Torred
51.REnz Marion Soguilon
52.Lee Rivera
53.Aaron Martinez
54.Lanie Lubay
55.Francisco Dela Cruz
56.Paolo Francisco
57.Jovito Yanga
58.Mean Manalansan
59.Beng Maaliw
60.Ron Maaliw
61.Cristina Culata
62.Manny Ocampo
63.Adel Torres
64.Jason Masayon
65.Julie Rodulfo
66.Reylynne dela Paz
67.Alfred delos Reyes
68.Rona Saludes
69.Japhet Grande
70.Chaps Grande
71.Mark Grande
72.LA Tomas
73.Heidi Mamangon
74.Ressie Mallari
75.Nikki Cepe
76.Michael Santos
77.Amos Adalim
78.Nikko Peralta
79.Faye Jacoba
80.Arvin Quilloy
81.Romel Espinoza
82.Ryan Moral
83.Jayson Antonio
84.Caryll Ferrer
85.Zarina Segundo
86.Raffy Gabotero
87.Warren Evangelista
88.Ryan Andrew Salcedo
89.Joel Balagtas
90.Jake Victorio
91.Joey Mendoza
92.Jess Saluta
93.Glen Velasco
94.Gil Sabinay
95.Paul Ablaza
96.Icar Hiponia
97.Jughead Jobars
98.Jeyson Ocampo
99.Charlie Ting
100.Marilou Ting
101.Nestor Huerno Jr
102.Catherine Huerno
103.Beatrix Kathleen Huerno
104.Jonathan Isaac Sana
105.Michael Sadim
106.Elizabeth Sadim
107.Camille Karen Bernabe
108.Rona Dizon
109.Yan Dizon
109A. Jomz Caguioa
110.Jennybave dela Cruz
111.Julie Perez
112.Chie Angeles
113.Allen Gaspar
114.Ramon Flores
115.Benson Ray Morales
116.Jeje Ajusto
117.Jigs Sabaricos
118.Jeffrey Diaz
119.Edrick Nicdao
120.Ej Madella
121.Glenda Mags Almejas
122.Cherry Bautista
123.Marlon Saracho
124.Harold Lorete
125.Ofelia Lorete
126.Jon Banaag
127.Lori Llamado
128.Sheryll Quimosing
129.Jing Guerrero
130.Zaldy Santillan
131.Gia Estrella
132.Mark Anthony Delumen
133.Bee Yen Soberano
134.Jake Pescador
135.Dindo Cabatingan
136.Carlyle Noel Balagot
137.Joy Vargas
138.Cindy Sevilla
139.Ronnie Provido
140.Aileen Manat
141.Andrew Aquino
142.Ariel Tuto Aquino
143.Dan Alvarez Sagayap
144.Dexter Cruz
145.Glairold Recella
146.Lady Dianne Palogan
147.Maria Josephine Liao
148.Paolo Tambo
149.Myla Go
150.Bennett Silario
151.Ayesa Polias
152.Maria Theresa Bolloso
153.Benj Termulo
154.Jerry Peralta
155.Cyril Magajes
156.Wap Forbes
157.Joseph Sibal
158.Chito Carreon
159.Mel Severino
160.Donald Ancheta
161.Ace Anzures
162.Jennifer C. Yamio
163.Edward Pascual
164.Arnel Distor
65.Danica Linda Mancenido

1.Ronnel Go
2.Jasor L. Oronce
3.Marquis Albert Minlay
4.Mary Gold dela Cruz
5.Jun Ealdama
6.Nora Montillano Ealdama
7.Rechel Palces
8.Jasmine Faltado Omaña
9.siosan baysa
10.Michelle Estuar
11.Joanne raquel
12.Noel Contreras
13. Nonito Agana
14.Veluz Niel
15.Rex Martin Superiano
16.Nelson Trevor Garcia
17.Nelyonel Supertramp
18.Rey Jimenez
19.Arnold ?
20.Mark Aethen G. Agana
21.Violeta L. Flores
22.Jenny Aggangan
23.Calvin John Escandor
24.Karlene Sebastian
25.Claridel Guanseng
26.Richard Guanseng
27.Elvin Evalla
28.Alvin Te Tan
29.Dave Rey de Castro
30.Christopher Guilas
31.Marilyn Guilas
32.Ria Zagala
33.Ed Escueta
34.Julito Pauly
35.May Angela Pelayo
36.Ian Q.Piza
37.Day G. Gabiola
38.Arlene Cheryl Oting
39.Jenny Red
40.Imee Palogan
41.Lestre Abrenica
42.Arvin Paredes
43.Mitch Regalado
44.TJ Taburico
45. Eena Navarrete-Cantos
46.John Almendralejo
47.Luigi Munsayac
48.Jeri Brucelo
49.Leila Torres
50.Rommer Ryan Torres
51.Leilani Rodriguez
52.Leila Punzalan
53.Irish Chua
54.Boy Ramos
55.Michael John Nera
56.Cris dela Cruz
57.Allen Roy Martos
58.Malou Ajusto
59.Red Mateo
60.Bien Santiago
61.Jebel Cristal
62.Quillan dela Cruz
63.Jarowin G. Villaruel
64.Hayde Hernandez
65.Aileen Piacos
66.Irhys Piacos
67.Kristine Piacos
68.Dianne Alano
69.Mark Steven Alano
70.Alfredo Vedarozaga
71.Dado Perlas
72.Jonathan Nava
73.Melanie Sarao
74.Paula Bianca Colao
75.Nadine Guillema
76.Rachiel Evangelista
77.Amer Capisan
78.Joselito Bauza
79.Faye Antolin
80. Heather Bauza
81.Romel J. Espinoza
82.Gary Basilio
83.Gerry Miranda
84.Pie Valencia
85.Charles Custodio
86.Arnold Salinas
87.Joyce Ramos
88.Andrew Custodio
89.Ragan Maning
90.Roselle J. Rodriguez
91.Theresa Andres
92.Marites Andres
93.Francisco Andres
94.Mary Grace Andres
95.Veronica Andres
96.Elizabeth Andres
97.Rene "Jazzrunner" Villarta
98.Betty Rosario
99.May Santos
100.Olivia Dimaano-Llanillo
101.Rolly Tolentino
102.Junn Besana

↧

Final List of 2013 FAT ASSers and New Guidelines

December 5, 2012, 10:13 pm

≫ Next: 2014 FAT ASS Guidelines

≪ Previous: 2013 FAT ASSers

Thank you to those (names are noted) who have expressed suppport for the 2013 edition of Fat Ass. As a result, we have more runners on the list below.

Please read the new Guidelines on security, cash donation, bandit, pacer, etc. here :

http://jon-ultra.blogspot.com/2012/12/2013-fat-ass.html

24 hours -      99
12 hours -    215
6 hours -    159
_________________

TOTAL = 473 (NOTE: We expect this number to shrink close to 400 during the event.)

For any correction, please post it in the comment section below (under moderation now). Runners only have 1 chance to change their category after which it is final (because we are implementing an innovative way to record loops of runners). Deadline is on or before 10 December 2012. See you all folks after the holiday merriment!

24 HOURS	12 HOURS	6 HOURS
1. CJ Paran 2. Thea Sangrador 3. Leo Tugade 4. Jay De Jesus 5. Simon Miranda 6. Reuben Miranda 7. Raul Tapia 8. Mar Tomas 9. Rene Miranda 10. Marc Philip Ellazo 11. Kharl Ocampo 12. Lyra Rosario 13. Napoleon Ocampo 14. Maxell Flores 15. Jess Agoo 16. Judy Aguilar 17. Maan Estanislao 18. Sarah Oinal 19. Ariane Legarte 20. Ronel Medina 21. Jerome Jamili 22. Ramil delos Reyes 23. Bernard Ilaga 24. Alan Tauyan 25. Jayson King Tan 26. Christian Francia 27. Carmeli Anne Ortega 28. Stephanie Hefti 29. Evelyn Mondragon-Lopez 30. Ceres Nido 31. Bong Alindada 32. Tholits Hernandez 33. Christian Oting 34. Marc Conrad Molina 35. Kim Maurice Flores 36. Barry Red 37. Hermie Saludes 38. Rizal Boy Ortega 39. Klein Chua 40. Raymund Canta 41. James Garcia 42. Puto Pao 43. Krishna Hernandez 44. Lanie Lubay 45. Shiela Martinez 46. Jhey Lapuz 47. Mean Manalansan 48. Ian Stevenson Yu 49. Jsin Starks 50. Rod Gotos 51. Art Virata 52. Irene Ong 53. Hanna Rose Pua 54. Susan Jael 55. Albert Salazar 56. Francis Santiago 57. Alex Jones 58. Trodge Lorenzo 59. Nicolas De Leon 60. Jhon Magcalas 61. Liza Paule 62. Ronaldo Robles 63. Bong Leaño 64. Edwin Vicente 65. Wesley Noel Orana 66. Michelle Angela Maravilla 67. Brian Tan Seng 68. Joen Soriao 69. Norberto Mortel 70. Dindo Diaz 71. Dennis Chavez 72. Juvy Pagtalunan 73. Richard P. Toledo 74. Vivian Cerrer–Toledo 75. Elmar Bob Tolete 76. Peachy Tamayo 77. Carlito Buenaventura 78. David Aquino 79. Tess Miranda 80. Myla Go 81. Carlo Serrano 82. Mac Azanes 83. Alex Galapin 84. Mon Gillego 85. Rosalia Castro 86. Alvin Rodriguez 87. Ejercito Suyo 88. Caloy Nobleza 89. Faar Nobleza 90. Cedric Nobleza 91. Chessie Nobleza 92. Chino Nobleza 93. Chayil Nobleza 94. Vener Roldan 95. Jan Michael Flores 96. Jinky Yray 97. Hazel Arnaiz 98. Don Gutierrez 99. Rocky	1. Daphne Rose Codilla 2. Allan Ray Enriquez 3. Doodsie Mallari 4. Edmund Cornelius Manlangit 5. Richal Paul Maling 6. Jessica Tiu-Laurel 7. Samuel Tiu 8. Ruth Ann Tiu 9. Mich Crisol De Ocampo 10. Ron Cabanlig 11. James Lee Escasinas 12. Jill Magbanua Alcibar 13. Ronald Rey Cruz 14. Jon Las Bruce 15. Sharon Sandoval 16. JB Pacia 17. Leigha Pacia 18. Jeyson De Ocampo 19. Bheng Maaliw 20. Ron Maaliw 21. Allan Gregor Bulos 22. Mark Anthony Diaz 23. Andrew Llanes 24. Jhunbie C. Serna 25. Angelito Hernandez 26. Jomelo Zagala 27. Rexcie Jane Saldivar 28. Joseph Pineda 29. Quintin Atienza II 30. Iris Rivera 31. Jonathan Villasin 32. Hendy Cheung 33. Reese Rogel 34. Phillip Fiarod 35. Ramie John Tuando 36. Jesus Llarena 37. Perkins Briones 38. Francis Señores 39. Orlando Picardo 40. Merwin Ilagan 41. Marcelino Abaya 42. Danny Yamio 43. DIno Yamio 44. Jhet Yamio 45. Rommel Damo 46. Jhey Lapuz 47. Juan David 48. Jun Torred 49. Renz Marion Soguilon 50. Lee Rivera 51. Aaron Martinez 52. Lanie Lubay 53. Francisco Dela Cruz 54. Paolo Francisco 55. Jovito Yanga 56. Mean Manalansan 57. Cristina Culata 58. Manny Ocampo 59. Adel Torres 60. Jason Masayon 61. Julie Rodulfo 62. Reylynne dela Paz 63. Alfred delos Reyes 64. Rona Saludes 65. Japhet Grande 66. Chaps Grande 67. Mark Grande 68. LA Tomas 69. Heidi Mamangon 70. Ressie Mallari 71. Nikki Cepe 72. Michael Santos 73. Amos Adalim 74. Nikko Peralta 75. Faye Jacoba 76. Arvin Quilloy 77. Romel Espinoza 78. Ryan Moral 79. Jayson Antonio 80. Caryll Ferrer 81. Zarina Segundo 82. Raffy Gabotero 83. Warren Evangelista 84. Ryan Andrew Salcedo 85. Joel Balagtas 86. Jake Victorio 87. Joey Mendoza 88. Jess Saluta 89. Glen Velasco 90. Gil Sabinay 91. Paul Ablaza 92. Icar Hiponia 93. Jughead Jobars 94. Jeyson Ocampo 95. Charlie Ting 96. Marilou Ting 97. Nestor Huerno Jr 98. Catherine Huerno 99. Beatrix Kathleen Huerno 100.Jonathan Isaac Sana 101.Michael Sadim 102.Elizabeth Sadim 103.Camille Karen Bernabe 104.Rona Dizon 105.Yan Dizon 106.Jomz Caguioa 107.Jennybave dela Cruz 108.Julie Perez 109.Allen Gaspar 110.Benson Ray Morales 111.Jeje Ajusto 112.Jigs Sabaricos 113.Jeffrey Diaz 114.Edrick Nicdao 115.Ej Madella 116.Glenda Mags Almejas 117.Cherry Bautista 118.Marlon Saracho 119.Harold Lorete 120.Ofelia Lorete 121.Jon Banaag 122.Lori Llamado 123.Sheryll Quimosing 124.Jing Guerrero 125.Zaldy Santillan 126.Gia Estrella 127.Mark Anthony Delumen 128.Bee Yen Soberano 129.Jake Pescador 130.Dindo Cabatingan 131.Carlyle Noel Balagot 132.Joy Vargas 133.Cindy Sevilla 134.Ronnie Provido 135.Aileen Manat 136.Andrew Aquino 137.Ariel Tuto Aquino 138.Dan Alvarez Sagayap 139.Dexter Cruz 140.Glairold Recella 141.Lady Dianne Palogan 142.Maria Josephine Liao 143.Paolo Tambo 144.Bennett Silario 145.Ayesa Polias 146.Maria Theresa Bolloso 147.Benj Termulo 148.Jerry Peralta 149.Cyril Magajes 150.Wap Forbes 151.Joseph Sibal 152.Chito Carreon 153.Mel Severino 154.Donald Ancheta 155.Ace Anzures 156.Jennifer C. Yamio 157.Edward Pascual 158.Arnel Distor 159.Danica Linda Mancenido 160.Randy Rodriguez 161.Aldean Philip Lim 162.Andrei Philip Lim 163. Earl Quero 164. Reginald Santos 165.Bong Bernandez 166.McCoy Lontoc 167.Mark Anthony Diaz 168.Gerry Lita 169.Mac Azanes 170.Greggy Galicia 171.Aris Paolo Mapanao 172.Roberto Hernandez 173.Ina Estoesta 174.Francis Frio 175.Marco Montaos 176.Victor Viola 177.Alfred Paiso 178.Fracisco Delmo, Jr. 179.Ana Fernandez 180.Frederick Gabriel 181.Joey Baladad 182.Benedict Meneses 183.Ramoncito Pestano 184.Dioscoro Garing 185.Shiela Antiga 186.Mark Jay Sidamon 187.Leopoldo Esquilona Jr. 188.JJ Layug 189.Ted Mallen 190.Chari Sevilla 191.Dennis Matias 192.Anna Bautista 193.Janette Candelario 194.Jerson Patron 195.Rholand Adaya 196. Jun Bautista 197.Merwin Torres 198.Myla Rostrat 199. Rey Evarista 200. Gino Tsobota 201.Melvin Basilio 202.Jhon Russel Sandiua 203.Samuel Montevirgen Jr. 204.Rodel Dollaga 205.Romelson Pring 206.Nathaniel Reyes 207. Lorenzo Mina Jr. 208. Vicente Delima II 209. Ruben Fajardo, Jr. 210.Ernesto Badong 211. Ed Balcueva 212. Rolando Nerona 213. Bob Castilla 214. Jonel Mendoza 215. Christian Nell Poquinto	1. Ronnel Go 2. Jasor L. Oronce 3. Marquis Albert Minlay 4. Mary Gold dela Cruz 5. Jun Ealdama 6. Nora Montillano Ealdama 7. Rechel Palces 8. Jasmine Omaña 9. Siosan Baysa 10. Michelle Estuar 11. Joanne raquel 12. Noel Contreras 13. Nonito Agana 14. Veluz Niel 15. Rex Martin Superiano 16. Nelson Trevor Garcia 17. Nelyonel Supertramp 18. Rey Jimenez 19. Mark Aethen G. Agana 20. Violeta L. Flores 21. Jenny Aggangan 22. Calvin John Escandor 23. Karlene Sebastian 24. Claridel Guanseng 25. Richard Guanseng 26. Elvin Evalla 27. Alvin Te Tan 28. Dave Rey de Castro 29. Christopher Guilas 30. Marilyn Guilas 31. Ria Zagala 32. Ed Escueta 33. Julito Pauly 34. May Angela Pelayo 35. Ian Q.Piza 36. Day G. Gabiola 37. Arlene Cheryl Oting 38. Jenny Red 39. Imee Palogan 40. Lestre Abrenica 41. Arvin Paredes 42. Mitch Regalado 43. TJ Taburico 44. Eena Navarrete-Cantos 45. John Almendralejo 46. Luigi Munsayac 47. Jeri Brucelo 48. Leila Torres 49. Rommer Ryan Torres 50. Leilani Rodriguez 51. Leila Punzalan 52. Irish Chua 53. Boy Ramos 54. Michael John Nera 55. Cris dela Cruz 56. Allen Roy Martos 57. Malou Ajusto 58. Red Mateo 59. Bien Santiago 60. Jebel Cristal 61. Quillan dela Cruz 62. Jarowin G. Villaruel 63. Hayde Hernandez 64. Aileen Piacos 65. Irhys Piacos 66. Kristine Piacos 67. Dianne Alano 68. Mark Steven Alano 69. Alfredo Vedarozaga 70. Dado Perlas 71. Jonathan Nava 72. Melanie Sarao 73. Paula Bianca Colao 74. Nadine Guillema 75. Rachiel Evangelista 76. Amer Capisan 77. Joselito Bauza 78. Faye Antolin 79. Heather Bauza 80. Romel J. Espinoza 81. Gary Basilio 82. Gerry Miranda 83. Pie Valencia 84. Charles Custodio 85. Arnold Salinas 86. Joyce Ramos 87. Andrew Custodio 88. Ragan Maning 89. Roselle J. Rodriguez 90. Theresa Andres 91. Marites Andres 92. Francisco Andres 93. Mary Grace Andres 94. Veronica Andres 95. Elizabeth Andres 96. Rene Villarta 97. Betty Rosario 98. May Santos 99. Olivia Dimaano-Llanillo 100.Rolly Tolentino 101.Junn Besana 102.Jeffrey Abenina 103.Imee Abenina 104.Isko Lapira 105.Emily Lapira 106.Abet Henson 107.Al Santos 108.Hannah Sanchez 109.Joma Galauran 110.Aleli M. Delos Santos 111.Earl Quero 112.Wilnar Iglesia 113.Angela Mae Abad 114.Virgil Manago 115.Karen Capio 116.Phil Smithson 117. Raymon Flores 118.Mark Labit 119.Dexter dela Cruz 120.Mj Dagat 121.Ryan Albino 122.Majul Maccay 123.Mark Joseph Ramos 124.Angie Lacaba 125.Valen Co 126.Keena Mabiog 127. Gladysmay Pascua 128.Aumelio Pascua 129.Raselle Lita 130.Jerimiah Balgua Jr. 131.Jap Arevalo 132.Tony Zerudo 133.Joshua Carbon 134.George Co Jr. 135.Raul Soriano 136.William Hernandez 137.Edmund Kagahastian 138.Neri Valero 139.Carlo Jay Hernandez 140.Noel Malco 141.Dennis Cumal 142.Migo Limos 143.Ryan Faith Tan 144.Francis Castaneda 145.Ernesto Sabado 146.Harry Docena 147.Herson Favis 148.Mitch Garcia 149.Chie Angeles 150.Ramon Flores 151.Aris Paolo Mapanao 152.Camilla Brooks 153.Charlie Chua 154.Abell Chua 155. Aureo Pascua 156. Kairhun Poquinto 157. Aaron Cano 158. Roel Subagan 159. Ronald Arabit

↧

2014 FAT ASS Guidelines

December 9, 2013, 8:00 pm

≫ Next: 2014 LIST OF FAT ASSers

≪ Previous: Final List of 2013 FAT ASSers and New Guidelines

Happy Holidays, folks!

Here we go again! Below are guidelines and other useful information. Please read them carefully. READ before you start asking questions, commenting or flaming thereby adding more wrinkles to your already weather-beaten face (especially if you are a mountain ultrarunner :) Most likely all the details you need are all written in here. If you can't find what you are looking for, then maybe, just maybe you are in the wrong blog? Haha, just ribbin you folks. Seriously, you can email us at fatassphils@gmail.com. We don't want your vital statistics unless you are in the PEOPLE'S top 20 (yup, you've read it right. Not 50 or even 100) gorgeous males and females :)

DETAILS

Categories: 24, 12 and 6 hours (NO MORE 36 hours, tiring but we admire those who did it :)

When: 4-5 January 2014
Start: (If it could be helped, no irregular start time please)

Start: 24 hours- 6AM of 04 January to 6AM of 05 January 2014

12 hours - 6AM or 6PM of 04 January 2014

6 hours - 6AM, 12 noon and 6PM of 04 January or 12 midnight of 05 January 2014

6January 2013

Where: Clark Parade Ground, Clark Freeport Zone, Philippines (Did you say where? Go and Google it or ask your friendly Brgy. Tanod or police :)
Course: Asphalt and grass loop of 2.2kms (No worry - no cow dung ... just dog poops)
Weather: Cool in the evening and morning but hot around noontime (Ever heard of umbrella? No, we don't recommend it unless you want to look dorky:)
Registration fee: not applicable, zero, nada, zilch but if you insist ... 1000 EURO then!
Awards: FAT ASS KING and QUEEN (minus the fat, as in actual fat or cellulite)
Expected participants: 5,000,000. Haha. ................................... minus four (4) zeros.

Registration process: Please see Fat Ass Philippines FB event page or choose the correct link below (er, not the COMMENT section!) for your chosen category. PLEASE, PLEASE NO DOUBLE POST FROM EACH PARTICIPANT or risk invalidating your entry. Capsisce?! Meron batok sa amin pag di sumunod and if you can't understand this, Google again :) Anyway, we will post the list before the event proper and if your name is not included, SO SORRY! .......................................................................... Nah just kiddin!

REGISTER HERE (click the link of your category of choice):

24 HOURS

http://bit.ly/fatass-ph-2014

12 HOURS

http://bit.ly/fatass-ph-2014-12hrs

6 HOURS

http://bit.ly/fatass-ph-2014-06hrs

NOTE: Be generous! So don't squander your 13th month pay or holiday gifts. Save up some (measly only) for this event. Why? Read on ...

DONATION

Your donation is the lifeblood of this event unless your hosts (us) are the some of the richest people (still how we wish!) on this side of the planet we call Earth. Depending on the number of runners, we need at least FOUR (4) portalets (hygiene issue) which is tied up to our permit to use the venue. Payment for portalets will be shouldered collectively by the participants through their cash donation. No portalets (they are not cheap!) will mean less number of runners allowed since the comfort room at the Tennis Court can only accommodate so much number of runners. Your donation will also help to pay for 1 timer or clock and the services of our utility boys who make sure everything is in order and to clean the the comfort room for 24 hours!

CR = Course Record

24 hours

Rocky Taylan - 71 loops = 156.2kms (2013)
Aleth Reblora - 48 loops = 105.6kms (2012)

12 hours

Benedict Balaba - 42 loops = 92.4kms (2012)
Daphne Codilla - 34 loops = 74.8kms (2013)

6 hours

Wilnar Iglesia - 27 loops = 59.4kms (2013)
Julie Green - 28 loops = 61.6kms (2012)* REMAINS UNBROKEN TO THIS DATE

The Map below shows where to park and camp. No camping on the other side of the tennis court. So this means, camping and parking are only allowed on the left of the tennis court when facing it from the Parade.

GUIDELINES

NATURE OF FAT ASS:

KEEP THE AREA CLEAN: Used gel wraps and other garbage/litters must be disposed of properly. We should know any better. All runners and crew must clean the area where they camped after the event. You are to bring your own trash bags. BE CAREFUL NOT TO START GRASSFIRE!!!

RUNNING AT NIGHT: Some sections of the loop are not well lit. Runners may want to bring their headlamps as the loop is uneven asphalt lane. Please be careful at night by watching your footing.

RUN “nickname” BIB: All runners are required to provide and create their own unique run bib with their nickname (not numbers!) before the event. Bib is uniform in size: 10x6 inches of any material (except paper because it will dissolve in sweat, duh :). RED nickname for 24 hours, BLUE for 12 hours and GREEN for 6 hours on a white background. This must be worn at all times. You are free to design your bib any way you want it just incorporate the basics. SO BE CREATIVE. The reason for this is simply to carry on the tradition of FAT ASS for the past years and that is camaraderie. In the last editions, we almost all knew each other's name. We cannot achieve this however if we are all strangers during this edition. Again, your bib will contain your nickname in the designated color. No run bib, no runpolicy will be enforced.

MUSIC: Just like last year, a sound system blaring energetic/rock/lively/tempo songs will be played for 24-hours especially during the late evening and wee hours in the morning. If you want any song included, please bring your music or songs during the race. Discretion will be exercised by the organizer. "My way" is banned here :)
*

FOOD & FLUID DONATION: Runners are encouraged to donate foods and fluids. These will be placed on a table near the checkpoint. All donations will be duly recorded and acknowledged. Please call our attention before doing so. NOTE: The foods and fluids on the table are not meant to sustain the runners during the entire duration of his chosen event. These are just "additions". For emphasis, runners will be responsible to bring their own food for himself and his crew/friends, if any, for the entire duration of the run. Please observe this rule properly. Also, the organizer reserves the right to manage this donation as they deem fit for the benefit of the runners especially those on longer events.

CASH DONATION: Ideally, it should be done before the event. This way we can order the necessary items and equipments (venue and permits fees, tents, timer, tents, chairs, etc.) and settle the expenses also. For those who want to donate in advance, please use this: Jonnifer M. Lacanlale, Security Bank, Acct. No. 0273-442218-200. or BPI account no. 8763-0144-61. Thank you. Others can donate during the event proper. Just like in the past events, we will provide donation box and log book.

BANDIT:Bandits are not allowed. Please respect the event. Or else we call in the cops! :)

RESTROOM & PORTALETS: The Tennis Court restroom will be opened. Per Clark regulation, we are also required to provide at least four (4) portalets due to the number of Fat Assers in this edition. So thank you. Do we need to tell the guys not to pee beside a tree or anywhere else for that matter? Please use the restroom and portapotties properly.

GEAR: It is cold during the night and early morning and hot during noon time in January. So plan accordingly. 1 or 2 piece is allowed :)

LAST LOOP BEFORE CUT-OFF TIME: The last completed loop before the cut-off time for each category will be considered as the official recorded loop. Uncompleted loop will not be counted.

WAIVER: As standard in all Fat Ass runs of this nature, all participants will sign a waiver before running. Runners are advised to come at least 30 minutes before their chosen event to register and sign the waiver. No waiver, no run policy will be imposed. You must print and bring your own waiver, duly accomplished and signed by you before running the event. So by individual. Format of the waiver can be found below. No waiver, no run policy in effect. Please print in A4 size bond paper.

MONETARY DONATION FOR UTILITY PERSONNEL: Please feel free to donate cash for our at least four (4) hired utility boys. Just like the last 2 editions, we pooled our resources just so we could pay them justly as they were up the whole 24 hours and beyond. It made our jobs easier and the runners happier. Please note that they would be away from their families and in essence, working. Their tasks are to clean the area during and after the event, run some errands, bring back the site into its original condition which includes dismantling what needs to be dismantled, etc. Thus, it is only just and proper that they should be reasonably paid. Names of donor will be duly acknowledged and again, organizer reserves the right to manage the donation as they deem fit.

So see you soon!

Cheers,

Jon

Here is the format - WAIVER

CLARK FAT ASS Run Waiver

(4-5 January 2014)

I, the undersigned, affirm that I participate in this run at my own risk, that there will be no support available except where provided by myself, no route markings, no marshals and no medical personnel in attendance and that I cannot hold my fellow runners, those who advertise the run or anyone else involved in the run or anyone else, responsible for any accident, injury or death sustained by anyone, anywhere or any property lost, stolen or damaged.

I know that the run may traverse uneven asphalt road around the Clark Parade Ground with minimal lighting during the night and accept I could get hurt, lost, dehydrated, injured or could even die. I fully accept this on my own behalf. In fact I will thoroughly ENJOY the prospect of suffering blisters, cramps, trashed quads, thunderstorms, lightning strike, heatwave, and other entertainment that can be associated with running.

I understand that even if I am an extremely experienced athlete, I may still not be fit enough to complete the course in daylight hours and that my fellow runners, those who advertise the run or anyone else involved in the run or anyone else need not wait for me to complete my run at the designated finishing spot. I have been advised to take some money and have my own support crew to look after me and my needs. I confirm that I have not left any belongings of any value with my fellow runners, those who advertise the run or anyone else involved in the run or anyone else whilst I am out running, and anything I may have left with them can be left unattended at the designated finishing spot if I fail to arrive there before they leave.

I believe I am fit enough to do and start this run – and complete it - or else I have the capabilities to get back to civilisation or my support crew, and that I am responsible for myself and the cost of any search and/or rescue if I become lost or suffer any medical problem (whether I know about it at the start of this run or not). I understand that my fellow runners, those who advertise the run or anyone else involved in the run or anyone else may not initiate any search/rescue if I do become lost or fail to arrive at the designated finishing spot.

In particular I guarantee that I will not bring any legal action in any regard to this run - I realise that my fellow runners, those who advertise the run or anyone else involved in the run or anyone else are NOT organising an event or race and that this is a joint endeavour by all who take part. I understand that there are NO organisers of this run and that each participant is responsible for being there and for their own actions – and therefore any legal action cannot be directed at any one person or group. If I wanted to have someone responsible then I would have run in a recognised event elsewhere. This is not to say I will not bitch or use strong language, I expect to do so during runs of this tough a calibre – regardless of whether I get injured, run poorly, run slow, puke, get lost or just plain don't like this Fat Ass run. I understand this is just a part of the experience of real running.

I confirm that I have had time to fully read and understand this waiver, even if it does limit my legal rights, and that I have not been pressured to sign this – I do so of my own free will, in a sane mind.

Printed complete name : Signature :

Date of birth :

Address:

Email :

Contact No:

(Waiver patterned after http://www.coolrunning.com.au/fatass/hq/images/3/35/Fatasswaiver.doc)

↧

2014 LIST OF FAT ASSers

December 15, 2013, 5:38 pm

≫ Next: CONVENIENCE

≪ Previous: 2014 FAT ASS Guidelines

Some designs for the 2014 Fat Ass shirt logo from runners:

Here is the list straight from the online registration. As usual we get double post from runners. We expect the crowd to really shrink on the day itself (as always) either by not showing up or for whatever reason. There are about 520ish Fat Assers for 2014, our biggest so far.

24 hours

LEO TUGADE
Manny Ocampo
Don Antonio Marcelo Tipon Santillan
Ian Stevenson Yu
Carlito Buenaventura
Marvin Maquirang
CHRISTIAN FRANCIA
Larry Duruin
THEA SANGRADOR
Yob Red
Paul Ablaza
Ayn Khris Mendoza
JOHN ALEXIS C. VIRTUCIO
AJ Villar
Jerome Ervin A. Catipon
JAYSON KING TAN
BILLY JOE T.TUVERA
Ian Stevenson Yu
Evelyn Lopez
JEROME JAMILI
Soleil Navarro
JOEL M. SISON
Marlon Saracho
Fernando Y. Cabañero
Dennis de las Alas
KIRK CHRISTIAN D. CADAY
MicMic Flores
JERRY O. PERALTA
RAY ANTHONY SARMIENTO
Marc Ellazo
Myk Dauz
Maris Dauz
Doodsie Mallari
Simon Miranda
Robert John Watson
Rene Miranda
Raul Tapia
Allan Gregor Bulos
Rueben Miranda
marc conrad molina
marc conrad molina
CRISTYLYNE A. DELA CRUZ
rayman dbb delos angeles
Jeremiah C. Mendoza
ariel aquino
Marc Tomas Miranda
andrew aquino
Alfred delos Reyes
cialu caliste
Allan Tauyan
dianne palogan
Moises Iñigo V. Nido
Chiara Tolentino
jepoy diaz
Reese Rogel
Dan Escresa
Rj Espinoza
Rj Espinoza
Mark Sidamon
Florrie d bartolome
Florrie d bartolome
Lira Avedillo
RONEL MEDINA
John Lee Mangahas
Prince Ang
zarina segundo
Nicolas B. De Leon Jr.
CJ PARAN
Norberto Mortel
ARRI T. AMA
Dennis Cumal
Ariane Al Legarte
Migo Limos
Sugz Lopez
Jeramy blas
Mark Joseph De Luna
Rodel T. Mendoza Jr.
Elmar A. Tolete
Ramon Flores
Roberto Bong Abad
Manny Tan
JEFFREY DIAZ
Jon Las Bruce
Christian Oting
Jay DeJesus
Carlo W. Nobleza
JOJO PAGUIA
JOJO PAGUIA
Carlo Molod
Arjay D. Alagano
Jayson "Jsin starks" Bustamante
Alvin Paul P. Quinto
ronaldo robles
elmer parazo
Tess Leono
Eric Aguilar
Jacqueline M. Gutierrez
reniboy gabule
Peachy Tamayo
Arlene C. Resolme
Reniellie James Dela Cruz
Michael Francis D. Guanlao
Reniellie James dela Cruz
Venn A. Lamela
Jay A. Lamela
dodjie ison
Reiner Tatlonghari
Edwin M. Lopez
bernardo t. fajardo
Rock Boy Taylan
reiner b tatlonghari
Rocky Taylan
Tristan Leroy A. David
Jenesse David

12 hours

Rosswell Sandino V. Espejo
Cindy Sevilla
Nikki Angeline Cepe
Florencio Sy
Randy Miranda
Icar Hiponia
Robert Quiazon
Jonathan Nava
John Brian Pacia
Glaiza Lunod
"Abad, Roberto Bong "
Rona Dizon
ROSALIA CASTRO
Yan Dizon
Sammy Dela Cruz
Jimmy Ong
Rommel "Jomz" Caguioa
GERTRUDE N. PERALTA
Arvin David Quilloy
"Abaya, Marcelino B. "
Earl Quero
brandy simbe
vivs toledo
Balane, Gladys Gale
Jeyson De Ocampo
Allan Ray Enriquez
Iris Rivera
boo toledo
Anna Bautista
Julie Rodolfo
Joel Balagtas
GERARDINE T. KUN
Rod Sollesta
Miko Sabado
Belle Manansala
Isidro A Bautista Jr
Quintin Atienza
Alvin Rivera
MAR MARILAG
Jonathan Villasin
CEDRIC FRANCIA
"Batino, Marc Adam Jeciel Ambuoi"
arlene de ocampo
Diana Rose Salonga
Jason de la Rama
"Casuga, Michael Angelo "
"Cruz, Ronald Rey Ron"
Jason Masayon
Faye Bautista
juancho valle
"Culata, Ma. Cristina Concepcion "
Icar Hiponia
Damo, Romel Ramilo
Joseph G. Pineda
Joseph Barabasa
jestine galano
David, Renante
Diana Rose Salonga
David, Rosemarie Rubio
Reylynne Dela Paz
Del Rosario, Moises Tomaquin
Dela Cruz, Francisco
Ederick Nicdao
Anner Marquez
Dimaranan, Albert
Flores, Ramon
Jectofer Victorio
Hermosa, Archie Ramirez
Sam Bautista
Ilagan, Merwin
Jhesrael Saluta
JOMELO B. ZAGALA
Jacinto, Roberto
Rommel Cera
Lapuz, Jonathan
Las, James Varias
"Lubay, Hernita Galado Lanie "
ELPI GALEDO
"Maaliw, Melvi Serrano Bheng"
"Maaliw, Ronaldo Racelis Ron"
PERKINS B. BRIONES
"Manalansan, Mary Ann Chico Me-ann"
"Mangalindan, Gerardo III Jon-jon / Joaquin"
Aeireiziel Palomares
"Martinez, Aaron Christian Aaron"
Ronnel Go
Reinell Tuiza
mark david i aquino
"Ng, Robert Samson Jr. Jojo"
Floro Almacen
"Olandia, Manuel Allusada Jr. Jhayr "
"Pacia, Merilea Gonzalez Leigha"
"Picardo, Orlando Jr. Orlan / Cool "
jerome bautista
"Sandoval, Ethenne Shayne Tayag Shayne "
"Sandoval, Shan Shan"
LIZA PAULE
"Santiago, Cristy Cristy"
abet ocampo
"Santiago, John Paul John"
"Senores, Francis Chit"
"Silla, Harold Lotlot "
"Tan, Emmanuel Manny "
"Tordecilla, Mikiehl Mike / Kehl"
"Villamor, Noel B. Noel "
Annaly T. Alojado
Alwyn Sy
"Yamio, Daniel Danny "
"Yamio, Dino Regala Bakser"
May Santos
"Yamio, Jhet III Jhet "
"Yanga, Jovito Asistin Jovit "
Bernard Go
Kim Angeles
Russel Hernandez
Mark R. Capistrano
Tristan Alenton
Pau Maligaya
"Manzano, Joseph Homeres Joseph "
Dennis Uy
Allenstein Co
Terrence Lu
CarlJason Dimalanta
Alice Lee
Gerson Yuson
Kathleen G. Pinero
ma. theresa las Theray
benson ray morales
cherry anne mercado
Ryann R. Sison
Jairuz Agang-ang
Allen Gaspar
Victor G. Viola
Dhannie Tan
Jonly Jigs Sabaricos
JOHANN C. MARQUEZ
Melojane O. Amit
ELMER M. CABALLES
Violeta L. Flores
Gilbert M. Lucina
Kim Maurice L. Flores
Efren Martinez
Nikki de Dios
Arwin Ng
Minnie Beth Tomas
Miko Sabado
Joseph Sibal
BabyRuth Vista
Ross Nashir B. Caratao
Ross Nashir B. Caratao
Arvin Lasala
Heijay Gatdula
Ina estoesta
Ma. Elaine Yabut
Samuel Tiu
Lyra Cruzelle Rosario
Carlos Napoleon Ocampo
Alejandrio Placiente
Napoleon Ocampo Jr
Andrei Capili
Portia R. Manatlao
Jon Las Bruce
Andrei Capili
Ian Andrew Edgar
Emerson Sto Domingo
Noel Villoso
Jan Vincent Castillo
Jojo Ramos
Edwin S.Clemente
Joseph Santos Ronquillo
Mary Maureen Albarracin
Dexter Cruz
Edwin Cruz
Beverly Benaid
Judy Aguilar
Paolo Martin J. Lalas
Lester Evangelista
Ricardo Cabusao Jr.
Jackson Pederiche
Junar " Jj" Layug
donald ausa
den saluta
Russel Hernandez
Paul Vincent L La Rosa
Nelson Tupas
Myla Go
Paul Vincent L La Rosa
Ruben Veran
Roden Jesus Rosin
Rhoderick Guieb
Vener F. Roldan
Bernadette Bathan
elpidio v. galedo
ruben pascual
joyce anne regalado
Vicente "Macky" M. de Lima II
anna romina jaurique
raymond zerrudo
ma. theresa mallorca
ma.chiqui t. galedo
Michelle De Ocampo
ethel cajefe
Cameron Cabanlig
Zan Cagulangan
Alex Yap
Jacqueline M. Gutierrez
ryan faith tan
Aquiz Minlay
Ronald Serrano
Rodelio L.Mendoza
Mark Anthony Sigue
Christian Almendrala
RAY PARAS
Maxell L. Flores
Arnold M. Banaay
Christian Ralph Du-bongco
Daniel R. Caampued
Calvin John Escandor
Karlene Sebastian
Glendel S. Terania
Matthew Dan-Li Mutia
JOHN LEONARD DUMAUA
Louie Aspili
ronald alog
alma alog
alma alog
Michael Banawa
Glenda Jose
Bob Castilla
Ernesto Badong
Ed Balcueva
bernardo t. fajardo
Ghlen Lucina
Mark Diaz
Celso C.Callo
Ma. Theresa S. Villanueva
maidy soriano
Noel Guevara
Rubeh Fajardo, Jr.
Rolando Nerona
Manuel G. Riosa Jr.
JOEY A. SAN DIEGO
Rosauro Dizon
Elmeray Kabigting
Jovino Parica
Noli Mendoza
Felros Tolentino
Salvador Villalon
Merwin Torres
Chad John Reyes
Mark Lynger B. Jingco
Rochelle Sumagang
Anna L. David
dexter david
Jean Lim
Ryan caladiao
Ryan caladiao
Tristan Leroy A. David
Jenesse David
GILBERT DEANG
PEGGY DEANG
bernie sarmiento
jesus tenorio
William P. Marino
MAthias Gerardo C. Lita
Alexandria B. Ahongon
Marlon Ponce Ian Zarate
Jonel De Ocampo
Julius Francis R. Castillano
Arnie John Martinez

6 hours

Ronalyn Provido
Reginald Santos
Carlo Serrano
Joy Vargas
Maya Pelayo
Conrado Verdadero Perlas
Ronnel Go
Bong Bernadez
Pao Tambo
Alvin Afan
Lawrence Arvin Tomas
Heidi Garcia
RocketBong Alindada
Minnie Beth Tomas
Aladdin Cordero
francis cadiao
Carrie Cordero
Yan Dizon
Wap Forbes
Errol Lumbang
Tricia serios
Mayi pamatmat
Raquel llanera
Warren Evangelista
Mayi Pamatpat
Patty Briones
rein de leon
Tin Mandap
Rej Siron
Mary Gold Dela Cruz
Jazz Bonador
Gia Estrella
Zaldy Santillan
RIA ZAGALA
Arlo Padua
Rj Espinoza
Marvin Manalang
NANCY B. ASILO
Jumbo tayag
maris de castro
Floribel paras
zarina segundo
zarina segundo
edward ifurung
jessie miclat
Iska Lo
gerald calma
Caryll Ferrer
Mark Jayson Antonio
rosgar apolinario
Allan Roy Martos
Juan Carlo Igos
Enrique M. Sundiang
Elvin A. Evalla
Jeffrey D. Poblete
Aleth Reblora
Eugene Tongol
Francis Gopez
Kris Charlene Aliga
Joseph R. Soledad
Marites Yumul Quioc
Steve Paul Dumlao
Ian Patrick Yumul Quioc
Raeanna Cranbourne
Aldean Philip Lim
Rica Anonuevo
Rica Anonuevo
Imee Palogan
ROMULO DOCTOLERO
Camilla Brooks
Charlie Chua
Melanie O. Neo
Benedict J. Meneses
Joycha Marquez
jeramy blas
Erika Cayanan
Nerissa Golondrina
Theresa Reales
Khara Ortega
Emiliano Burgos
Dickson Franco
James Mora
Lourdes Olaran
erwin sy
kier carlo tionco
ruzzel botalan
mark ryan canillo
jerriel masilungan
Zarina Segundo
Jason Sison
Chie Angeles
Jharo Villaruel
Jose Lorenzo Mina Jr.
Bilz Juaiting
Menchie M Rosin
Bong Ortaliz
Richal Paul Maling
Jessica Tiu-Laurel
James Lee Escasinas
Carlo Molod
Cyril Magajes
Imee Palogan
James Lee Escasinas
Andrew Llanes
Chona P. Salvidar
Dave Rey de Castro
Alvin E. Te Tan
Aloysius Anthony A. Alvarez
Rian Christer P. Cruz
Mark Sarical
jennelyn sinsay garcia
Maria Josephine Liao
Florence Vinncent Cifra
adelfa ybanez
Jonel Raya
Dino Martin Miranda
james dulalia
Wilnar iglesia
james dulalia
Christian Cruz
Lester Jerome Chuayap
Emmanuel Muncal
REX MARVIN SAMSON SUPERIANO
JAMAICA MALANG
bernardo t. fajardo
Eric esmabe
RASCHID LEE F. APOSTOL
Evan joy mausisa
Wilnar Iglesia
alma alog
ray soeiano
Junrox Roque
sheryll millar
Angelique Roux
Ryan caladiao
Precius caladiao
Brent Cerdena
Regine Gozun
nancy galang
timothy jan galang
aubrey jermaine galang
timothy jan galang

↧

CONVENIENCE

December 22, 2013, 10:10 pm

≫ Next: Holiday Runs, Birthday Run, Hardrock, Asia Trail Magazine

≪ Previous: 2014 LIST OF FAT ASSers

During my 6 plus-hour solo run in Miyamit yesterday, I caught myself thinking about what other places I can run in. Even during my quick climb in Arayat the day before, it was the same thought. That is not to say I am bored in both places except that it would be interesting to visit other trails to get in some run, enjoy and absorb the scenery and be with friends. A change of scenery is always welcome.

There are other places, perhaps even better, for sure out there but it is always the question of convenience for me. I'd particularly love to train in the highlands of Kayapa NV, venue of Hardcore 100 miles if only I had the power to teleport. Right now, Miyamit and Arayat are the best places I can train in because it is closer to home. Sure I can travel for several hours just to get in a run. Once or two occasions are okay but for someone who trains for ultras, it becomes a question of sustainability as well. Can you sustain it in the long run? For months? Every weekend? Priorities must also be taken into consideration especially if you have a family, kids and a day job to care of.

In Arayat, I can be back home for breakfast (while kids are still asleep) if I am not doing a double climb. Otherwise, I'd be back for lunch. In Miyamit, it is always around lunch time depending on what time of the start and distance. What is yours?

There are several factors I would consider to take on a trail outside of my perimeter or comfort zone:

1. SCENERY - It should be away from civilization and offers a fantastic view of the surrounding natural environment. I mean what is the point of going to trails when you hear and smell modern society (which includes pollution, car noise and whatnot)? We will always be drawn to natural setting. I have particularly found this to be true when I brought my family for the first time to Miyamit Falls a couple of weeks ago. Despite walking (except for some "Pa, please carry me" moments) for the first time for more than 4 hilly kilometers starting from the 2nd hill to view deck (our SUV could not take on the rough and steep part leading to View Deck), to Falls and back, my 3 year old boy was asking me the next day, when are we going back. That was to my utter surprise. I am really grateful that our outing that weekend left a good memory in them. I secretly wish all of my kids will enjoy going to the mountains or any natural environment as opposed to malls, theme parks, etc. Actually, my deepest wish is they would also take up mountain running, then ultra :) That said, I will continue to expose and bring them to more natural environment. This reminds me of our night outing in the nearby hills way back in 2011 and their earliest race in 2009 :)

Some liked it, others complained :)

The deal was to carry my youngest (Marcus) when it was too steep. View deck on the uppermost part of the pix.

Sophia and Marcus. Falls in the background.

I had to be the sweeper and to watch over them. Trail leading to the Falls.

The Family

Frolicking in the water. It was cold!

Patricia and Nathan enjoying the cool crisp cascading water.

The hard climb back up from the Falls

Break! :) This is the climb after view deck to the car.

2. Distance - There should be enough open trail to get in a long run. Loop, out-and-back, one-way, point-to-point, it does not matter. Perhaps at least 22K. No leeches. Enough distance to be alone for hours to give such time to ponder and meditate.

3. Elevation - Hills/mountains give you the leg strength like no other and it adds variety to an otherwise boring run.

Trees, dense foliage, water source, river crossings, cool weather are just bonuses.

Cheers,

Jon - wishing everyone HAPPY YULETIDE!!!

P.S.

H1 - I just realized that this race is already in February. Given the limited time to train, the proper approach for now is smart training and maximize the time spent on the trail.

↧

Holiday Runs, Birthday Run, Hardrock, Asia Trail Magazine

January 2, 2014, 12:47 am

≫ Next: The Solitude of Solo (Birthday) Run

≪ Previous: CONVENIENCE

Photo from Pinoymountaineer.com

HOLIDAY RUN @ BATULAO

My mind was already busy thinking of what to do for the long holiday weekend starting from 28 Dec. 2013 to 01 January 2014. That was full 5 days of free time. Naturally my mind gravitated towards trail running!

I already made arrangement for a full-Miyamit run with some running buddies last Sunday (29/12/13)but the same had to be postponed since the family had to go to South the day before for the New Year . Since I had to drive the family on Saturday, running had to take a back seat. I figured one-day respite from running was called for given I ran last Friday anyway.

All I knew I was craving for some elevation or mountain running and the mind scoured the virtual map for the closest mountain from Tagaytay City. It is Mt. Batulao in Batangas which is 20-30 minutes drive from the house depending on the traffic. The elevation (811++ MASL) may not be high but if one will do several rounds, it will suffice.

So I made sure to wake up early enough to factor in driving time to start the run by 6AM (ideally). So starting last Sunday for the next 3 days I had been visiting Mt. Batulao. The run started from the new trail to old.

DAY 1 - The rest last Saturday sort of filled up my tank for today. Extra energy was evident in the uphills. The cool temperature of December weather with wind and cloud-filled sky made it surprisingly invigorating. My regret was only doing a single outing because for the next few days, it was cloudless sky; ergo hot. I could have done 2 loops easily. My goal was to travel light. Hence, I carried no water carrier. If I wanted to drink, the coconut juice at the store of Mang (uncle) PD (the hut at the junction of the old and new trails) for a measly 25 pesos was more than enough.

DAY 2 - Woke up early to prep and have a home-made tapsilog (I myself cooked) before the run. Coffee is always a staple pre-run. I can't do without it. So by 6AM, I was already running starting from Evercrest. I did 2 loops which in hindsight I should have done 3. Carrying no watch also has its own cons. You can't tell EXACTLY what time it is. I had to look at the sun over the horizon to more or less figure it out. I finished around 9AM which meant I could have done another loop to wind up by 10AM which was still okay at home. As usual, the coconut juice after loop 1 and going home was delightful!

DAY 3 - My wife tagged along even when I said I'd be doing 3 loops. She asked if she could do it and naturally I said "Of course!". The first few hours were "enjoyable" given the cool early morning temperature but when we started doing hills after hills that was when it dawned on her the unsavory situation given she is not used to mountain running. Let's say she complained of the endless climbs but she managed to finish. Not bad. Our run was from the old to new trail (I am more efficient from the new-to-old-trail loop). She went ahead to the car while I did two more loops. Given that we finished the 1st loop way off my usual target time, the 3rd loop was done around 12 noon; and thus very hot. The noontime heat considerably slowed me down. If I had it my way, I could have done 4 loops.

Pointing at the peak

Now my calves and quads are complaining ... the good kind of hurt :)

HARDROCK

The elusive race! Simon Sandoval and I had another bad luck at this year's lottery. Simon had his 3rd straight and 2 in a row for me. Aargh! I am getting older and I hope I won't get to run it when I am 50 years old! :) Anyway, next year again! It's my dream run (yup they say it is not a race :) and so will keep sending in my slot.

BIRTHDAY RUN

Geez, time flies! I'll be turning 44 this coming 06 January 2014. Just like last year, I will run the equivalent of my birth age, er, in kilometers (not in miles yet :) . I am inclined to visit Miyamit this coming Monday or do the same during Fat Ass this weekend. It depends on my mood. I'd appreciate some company this coming Monday but given it is a working day, I should lower my expectation.

ASIA TRAIL MAGAZINE

The first international trail magazine in Asia! I was glad to be part of its first edition. Thanks to Editor/Publisher Clement Dumont and writer Ms. Rachel Jacqueline. Now if I only can get a hard copy :)

Moi, the 3rd from left at Bighorn 100 approaching the Finish Line

↧

The Solitude of Solo (Birthday) Run

January 7, 2014, 7:52 pm

≫ Next: 2014 Outreach Program

≪ Previous: Holiday Runs, Birthday Run, Hardrock, Asia Trail Magazine

Birthday is inevitable. It is like the start of a new annual cycle and only stops, um, when one is 6 feet under the ground. Well, some folks still celebrate your birthday even if you have crossed over to the next life. But this is another story altogether.

I was tempted to run my birthday age of 44kms during Fat Ass last 4-5 January but it was too early since my birthday was actually last 06 January. Besides, there is something, um, solemn about running your birthday age on the day itself. Also, I prefer some elevation and given I was entitled to a birthday leave, I might as well spend it wisely. The obvious choice was either Mt. Arayat or Miyamit. With Arayat, I have to climb 4.4 times just to reach 44kms. So the obvious choice was Miyamit. So I took a mental note of this while Fat Ass was going on.

Despite lack of quality sleep prepping and supervising Fat Ass for the last 2 days, I woke up at 3:50AM last 06 January as if my soul stirred me from slumber. A bit groggy and confronted with annoying hesitation whether to run or not. You know that feeling some of us have to contend with first thing in the morning. Normally the best cure to this is not think at all and just head out the door! And that is exactly what I did but not without my cup of joe and taking a bath.

So by 6AM I was already running from Ayala Porac. I realized though that it was Monday when most people are getting ready for work but there I was heading to the mountains instead. It sure felt different that time. I brought two kinds of shirts, one long and the other short sleeved. Weather was a little colder; sky was cloudy as if the natural world was celebrating the day with me. I felt a tinge of guilt on how my Inov 8 trail shoes look like now - almost ruined. Holes on both sides of the shoes where you can see my pinky and big toes. They sure need a replacement. For now, they are still holding up. I realized this pair of shoes has sentimental value having brought me to the finish lines of some tough ultra races - WS100, H1, Four Lakes, TNF100, and of course, Bighorn 100.

So, the goal was 44kms which was nothing spectacular and not long for some better ultrarunners out there. This was more of a ceremony cum training than anything else. I brought 2.5 liters of water, some food and 1 Salt Stick cap and mentally noted of the need to refill on the way down at the creek 4kms (16kms from Ayala) from the junction of Miyamit Falls and Peak. Perhaps, 3.5 liters of water was consumed. For food, I had a burger as lunch at the peak and a sandwich with butter and "yema" (it is a strange dessert of sort where an unopened can of condensed milk was cooked for hours in hot burning coal resulting in a gooey thingy. Very sweet.) and a small Toblerone which I absentmindedly picked up in 7-11 (will never buy this choco again since the foil is darn messy!). The weather was still cool and the guards asked me If I was all alone to which I said yes. I reached the peak and skipped the Falls on the way back since it would exceed my distance for that day (defeating the very purpose should that be the case). Reaching the peak was again magnificent and awesome! The view is always breathtaking! Invigorating to say the least. I was all alone too.

The run was uneventful except I noticed that it was rather solemn all throughout. There were 5 hours when I did not see any humans and to think you can hardly find a place now where you can be all alone. Alone in a sense that you cannot hear any human and non-natural sounds anymore. Everyday, we are bombarded by noises of different kinds and decibels! We sometimes have to go back and retreat to our natural world to recharge and feel the inner voice within and listen to the sounds around us. For this reason, I will always love Miyamit peak and the journey going up there. Strange I was feeling contented and ... "natural" on that day. I can't explain it. It is what it is. I simply call it The SOLITUDE OF TRAIL RUNNING.

↧

2014 Outreach Program

January 16, 2014, 12:40 am

≫ Next: Weekend runs in (new) Lone Peak 1.5

≪ Previous: The Solitude of Solo (Birthday) Run

The Outreach Program was held last Sunday, 12 January 2014 at the Aeta community in Sapang Uwak, Porac, Pampanga Philippines.

Present were Doi Calbes (from Davao), Michael Flores, CJ Paran spouses Noel and Precy Hernandez, Migo Limos, his girlfriend and friends, Darwin, Robert Quiazon and family, and Joseph with Barangay Tanod.

Before the program, we took our sweet time going to the Falls after which I took off for a quick downhill running going back to the Tourism Office where the venue was held. On the way to the Falls, I informed some families living uphills to come down and participate. Robert Quiazon, using his own SUV, drove his wife and son close to the View Deck so they could see the Falls as well.

Overall, it was a wonderful weekend physically, socially and spiritually!

So thank you to the following donors:

Atty. Joanne Evangelista, spouses Noel and Precy, Pie Valencia, Team Miranda, Tukod.ph, Anna Bautista, Team EkEk, MGM, Migo Limos, Dennis Cumal, Allan from Porac, Jet Paiso, Vivian Cerrer-Toledo, Ria and Jom Zegala, Juancho Valle and of course, Melanie Lacanlale.

HIGHLIGHT of the outreach program is when I was handing out clothes to the kids with bedraggled outfit and sometime with no lower covering. I did not expect them to say thank you or "salamat" but the glint or smile in their eyes while walking away and holding the clothes was more than enough for me. And everytime I think of it, it brings tears of joy to my heart and soul.

There are still 2 boxes of used clothes and if some of you out there have outreach programs like this, let us know.

Cheers,

Jon (who believes in magnanimity and the ethos "what goes around; comes around")

↧

Weekend runs in (new) Lone Peak 1.5

January 27, 2014, 2:39 am

≫ Next: 2014 PlLIPINAS AKYATHLON® - Race Report

≪ Previous: 2014 Outreach Program

Finally, the pair has arrived! Thank you to Cirilo "Blue" P. Tradio Jr. for making it possible. His company Sing Phil, carrying the brand Altra Footwear, among others, based in Singapore was a major partner of 2013 CM50. It came last Friday after I absentmindedly ignored the Notice card in the morning from the local post office that a "parcel" is ready for pick up. It was only when Blue sent me a message in FB (named "Blue-b Tradioandsons") close to 5PM asking if the shoes have arrived that I whipped my arse to pick it up. Altra Lone Peak 1.5 is a scarce commodity to find here in Philippines as they sell fast (I think for now).

Altra Lone Peak 1.5

My well-used and loved Inov8 can now finally RIP :) Thank you for your company during the highs and lows. You know I have I never blamed you for anything even I slipped and that was only when I was not paying attention on the trail. You have served your Master well :)

Worn out Inov8 Trailroc 245

I was absolutely delighted the shoes have arrived just in time for my critical long outing last weekend - back-to-back solid runs (more on this later). For now, I can't help but make a quick review of Lone Peak 1.5 and compare it with Inov8 Trailroc 245.

You can read my previous review of Trailroc 245 here. This is comparing Trailroc with another Altra shoes, Superior. In gist, I liked Trailroc with one major con - it irritates my Achilles when shoelaces are too tight. After back-to-back long runs last weekend, I think I have gathered enough info to rate Lone Peak 1.5.

From bright red to dirty red after the long runs

I give Lone Peak 1.5 a rating of big 9 out of 10! What can I say this is almost a perfect trail shoe for me ... so far.

FIT - Amazingly comfy right out of the box and the color is "bitchin" red as one blogger said. My toes are not cramped which is very important in ultra. They can splay freely on ground impact. Very snug fit at the mid foot area. The only concern I had was the square foam thingy inside at the bottom part of the the shoe lace area. I thought they would be problematic during the run but it was not so. The only concern I have is the inside brace part of the ankle area hitting my inside ankle bone during downhill running BUT only when it is too steep and the shoelaces are too tight. After the runs last weekend, my ankle bone was unaffected.

UNDERFOOT - This is where Lone Peak 1.5 really shines. It was hard to find a shoe now that the cushion is just perfect for you. Either it is too thin (minimalist) or too thick (e.g. Hoka) and when you run 100 miles on some rugged terrain, protection under your feet cannot be overlooked. For me, Lone Peak 1.5 has given me enough cushion. It was just enough to protect my feet when bombing downhills without worrying getting bruised. With Trailroc 245, I could not do that without feeling the stones and pebbles underneath. Bottom line is, Lone Peak 1.5 is very COMFORTABLE underneath. So the new pair will be my to-go shoes for 50 miles to 100 miles for now.

LUGS - Lugs are not too aggressive or big but they are okay for me. I have yet to test the shoes in muddy terrain but for now they are perfect where I run. During our long runs, I checked the lugs of Salamon S-Lab and Fellraiser of CJ Paran, they are perfect for muddy terrain. Aggressive.

SHOELACES - Annoyingly long and unmanageable even when you have used up all the lace holes. I mean why not make it just enough length. That way they save money.

MATERIAL - Inside feel of the inner lining material is soft and comfy. The pair being new, I cannot vouch for it yet as to whether the upper materials are sturdy. What I can say for sure is that they dry up pretty quickly even when my socks were wet (probably because it was too hot during last Sunday's run). Let us see after 2014 ultra racing season and see how the shoes would hold up.

HEEL AREA - I was hesitant to wear Lone Peak 1.5 during our Saturday run for fear of yanking my Achilles. Lo and behold, shoes are amazing. So gentle on the heels. The construction and material are such that as if the heel part or enclosure of the shoes is not even there but not to the point of losing the snugness or fitness especially when going uphills. I hardly felt any degree of strain.

SUMMARY - What can I say, this is my imperfect "perfect" shoes for now. They will debut at PSA Akyathlon for eventual use at H1.

CJ Paran at the peak of Arayat.

Before closing, I was happy to have been joined by CJ Paran (training for H1 also) and spouses Noel and Precy (training for TNF100) last weekend. CJ and I run Mt. Arayat 3x last Saturday morning. During our second run, Noel and Precy joined us for a leisurely pace until CJ and I broke away to find our modest pace.

Where I always start my/our run

Weather was perfect and we mixed our route taking the steep new route with old trail path to break the monotony. On our third climb, we felt the effect of flying on the downhill portion during our first 2 rounds. Sort of thrashed our quads. This is the first time I have run Arayat 3x in a row. Simon and I did 2 in a row during our training for UTMB. Sometimes on my own. Tiring but we know it will help us during the upcoming races. As for elevation, we definitely gained 3,000 meters of climb at least if one considers this elevation profile. After the run, it was nice to be invited by Noel and Precy to their home for late sumptuous lunch. By the way, there will be a circuit mountain races starting with "Arayat Peak" race on 13 April 2014 for mountain enthusiasts and runners. More details very soon.

At their home in Magalang, 10-15 minutes to Arayat only. You two have no excuse not to train properly for TNF100 :)

Then Sunday, CJ and I hit Miyamit for another sufferfest of around 38km run. Too cold up there like in Arayat. Good thing I brought a pair of gloves. CJ and I could feel the soreness in our quads (my calves are okay) and we suspected that it was due to the downhill chasing we did in our Arayat the day before :). Then again, I'd rather suffer now than regret it during the big race. Total mileage is a little over 100k of quality run with much-needed elevation gain and loss for this week. As I won't to say, you need "mountains in your legs" for the big dance. More pictures below.

H1 UPDATE - No pacer for H1. Simon won't arrive until late February. Come to think of it, I had no pacer last year's Bighorn 100 in Wyoming. Perhaps, it is time to heed Karl "Speedgoat" Meltzer (who does not believe in pacer) that 100 miles is not that too long. I am waiting for a volunteer who is willing "to commune" with Nature with me during the last 60k of H1. But then again, I am okay even without a pacer. Won't be racing this time.

Cheers,

Jon (always thinking of ways and means to find the balance between speed and volume)

Start from Ayala Porac

Mt. Negron "Abu" ahead

The big landslide area

Base of view of deck. Weather was too hot on our way down!

Miyamit is on fire! Blame "Kaingin" or the heat?. Pictures below of fire areas on different parts in Miyamit. Tsk Tsk.

↧

2014 PlLIPINAS AKYATHLON® - Race Report

February 9, 2014, 7:04 pm

≫ Next: 2014 Hardcore 100 Race Report

≪ Previous: Weekend runs in (new) Lone Peak 1.5

This is my 3rd year of 3. Previous race reports here: 2012 and 2013.

2014 PlLIPINAS AKYATHLON^®:

The 3rd Philippine International SKYRACE™
8 February 2014, Saturday, 6:00 AM

MT. Ugo, Brgy. Tinongdan, Itogon,
Benguet, Philippines

Pilipinas Akyathlon Race Course Description:

"This is a 35.3-km out-and-back race, starting from the Barangay Hall of Tinongdan (779 masl) in the Municipality of Itogon, Province of Benguet. The first 1.7km is a downhill run on paved road to the start of the trail (499 masl). From this point, the route to the summit is mostly uphill with a total elevation gain of 1858 meters, and loss of 195 meters. The route will showcase magnificent views of surrounding mountains, including portions of Binga and Ambuklao dams as far away as Pangasinan. The turnaround point will be at the summit of Mt Ugo (2162 masl). The 16.4-km route from the summit to the finish is a mirror image of the route to the summit, and concludes with a 1.7-km (280m vertically) ascent to the finish line at the hall of Barangay Tinongdan." (from race website). Based on Atty. Aldean Lim's GPS reading, we have this basic info:

Distance:

35.24 km

Elevation Gain:

2,249 m

Elevation Loss:

2,254 m

This Skyrace is essentially a training race for my upcoming 2014 Hardcore Hundred Miles (H1) race in 21-22 February 2014. My second year with 2012 race report here.

Unlike last year, I did taper a few days before this race which resulted to an improvement of my clock time - 5:20 from 5:40 given the route is a little longer now - 36K. Also, it was also nice to be with some friends before, during and after the race. This is what really appeals to me, the camaraderie and chit chat among fellow runners. Somehow, you always feel at home. Travelling the night before the race by bus, I did not make it during the pre-race briefing. So thank you to Aldean (thanks for the Injinji!) and Majo for taking care of my race packet for me and sharing the ride (taxi) to the race venue and house. Both are now part of the Philippine Team Salomon I think with Eric Guieb also. On that note, I am happy for them. On the way back to Baguio, thank you to Eric Guieb for giving us a lift. Good luck to Eric for his Full Ironman in Melbourne this March! I wish I stayed until Sunday for their recovery run but my family had to take a top position in my priority list.

I had issues during the race. My butt muscles were tight which considerably hindered my uphill effort although my heart rate was okay. Probably this is due to lack of sufficient massage or flexibility and/or sitting on my ass the whole day before in the office (although I consciously try to stand up and move around) and then bus for 6 hours! Dang. Upper abdominal part was tight too resembling a side stitch. In hindsight, I should have not eaten too close to the race and even the night before. Bloated tummy as well. Oh well.

Overall, it was a good experience. I had fun running the downhill portion of the race from the Mt. Ugo Summit. Surprisingly, the 1.7km ascent to the finish line was manageable this time unlike last year despite the heat.

Placing second for my age group category - 40-49 was just an added consolation and yielded some giveaways from the race organizer. After the race, it was nice to meet Clement Dumont - 2013 PSA Skyrace winner (3rd this year) and Editor of the first Asia Trail Magazine and his wife, Sabrina as well. We chatted a bit and gave me the magazine (hard copy with digital copy before) in which I was featured. One day, I'll run his Trans Lantau 100, which he is the race director. I hope we can get Asia Trail Magazine to sponsor 2014 CM50.

I will be back next year. This race is too perfectly timed as training race for H1 and so I have no intention of not giving it a go. So my "pilgrimage" trail races in the Philippines for now are H1, TNF100 and PSA Skyrace, in no particular order of importance but not difficulty :)

Some pictures below.

Cheers,

Jon (thinking of H1)

P.S.

Altra Lone Peak 1.5 performed really well during the race. Enough cushion and traction even how loose or rocky the terrain was. No blister or hotspot. The shoes seem to breathe really well. However, I noticed I was tripping a bit on rooty portion of the route more particularly the big toe nail part. Overall, I am satisfied. Cheers.

Male podium finishers

from left: Eric Guieb, Majo Liao, Roland Wang, 4th to 7th are from ROX (Jundel) and PSA, Aldean and moi (red shirt)

2014 male champion chatting after the race with Thumbie

Front design of the shirt with the medal above. Good quality shirt. I like it.

Back design of the official shirt

Front cover

Inside story

↧

2014 Hardcore 100 Race Report

February 25, 2014, 3:39 am

≫ Next: RD Thoughts - Addendum to H1 Race Report

≪ Previous: 2014 PlLIPINAS AKYATHLON® - Race Report

My 2nd shot of the 2 editions of the Hardcore 100 Miles Trail Ultramarathon Philippines held a few days ago, 21-22 February 2014. I have decided this soon to put in writing the experience while the details are still fresh, vivid and to a certain extent ... painful :) Previous race report here.

I had no grand plan coming into this race unlike last year when I was really psyched up and excited to race it despite the inclement weather. That fire was not burning inside last weekend and in fact, even before the race (training phase). I don't know why. Methinks that is very important when one has to do great in a race. You should be on fire, driven and greatly motivated to accomplish what you have set out to do. Absent that, the discomfort and all those incessant pains and whatnot during the later stage of the race would slow you down considerably. Of course, I am no authority on this.

Race results here.

WEATHER

The mountains gave us good weather all throughout the race. Drizzles in the night and at dawn which further lowered the temperature but overall it was good. I heard it was around 11'C up in the mountains and perhaps colder with chilly wind. Well I can attest to that. Even a few minutes of stopping drastically lowered our core temperature and gave us some chills especially on exposed parts of the course. So we had no choice but to pick it up again and keep moving.

TRAINING

I am a staunch proponent of specificity of training. For ultra races like this and UTMB where it involves significant elevation gain and loss (uphills and downhills), you need to train on similar terrain. The oft-repeated "mountains in your legs" is apt and can't be ignored.

While I had substantial volume (100k plus per week) and specificity leading to the race, I seemed to have overlooked to do hill workouts. My speed session mainly involved flat fast races which are not entirely useful for a mountain race like H1 with 33,386 feet Elevation Gain and 33,412 feet Elevation Loss, courtesy of finisher Mark Jolin (USA). (Wow, 10,176 meters which is higher than UTMB! That is sick. No wonder the race is hard.). But even with that much training, if one is not fired up then what is the use then yes? More guarantee/confidence to finish perhaps but not place high enough in the ranking. Also, I seemed to require more time to recover from hard workouts now given my age or so it seems. Oh well. The only trade off is you get more experience, resiliency, confidence and wisdom. You don't give up so easily and tend to focus on general stuff rather than the small annoying details especially pre-race. In other words, race management becomes easy. Hmm, taper properly as well.

PRE-RACE

Days leading to the race were uneventful. Robert Watson and wife May (thank you!) offered me a hitch which I gladly accepted after work last Wednesday. When I arrived in Baguio City, I met up with CJ Paran and Majo Liao. I could not sleep well not because of jitters but because of the noise outside from passing vehicles. Then early morning, I hitched again a ride with Robert and the Baguio boys and stopped along the way to take these pictures:

Sang from Korea, moi and Robert Watson (Aus but based here)

At 10:30am or so of Thursday, the registration and pre-race briefing took place. I love this part because you get to meet and talk to your competitors and old friends in our small ultrarunning community. I made a mental note to gauge and write down the distances between aid stations at the back of the official race map and to sleep after the briefing. By the way, they offered us sweet potatoes (very tasty!) and brewed coffee. I ate some and declined the coffee (for better slumber). After this, we hurriedly went back to our rooms to prepare our drop bags. I had 3.

Having assessed the content of my back pack and the mandatory gear, I was really concerned about the weight of my bag. You are always torn between carrying just enough gear for light load without sacrificing safety. That is the delicate balance. Carrying all the essential equipments would mean more weight but peace of mind (hence, confidence) while less means fast but perhaps being less prepared when an emergency calls for it. I chose the mid ground.

The registration and pre-race briefing

The evening meal was shared heartily with fellow runners. Dinner consisted of fried chicken and pork and sauteed mixed veggies (which fiber I normally avoid before a race but not this time. It was fresh and yummy and complement the other viand) and watermelon to wash it down with. We aptly called it "Last Supper". Sleep then followed and alarm was set at 11PM for the 12:01AM start. I strongly suggested to my roommates Leo and Jhonley to tape their feet for this race which they gladly did.

START

2014 Official Race Map

I knelt and prayed to the "Great Spirit That Moves Around Us" to give us safe passage through the mountains on top of the prayer the RD gave us. You can sense the jitters around me from the runners especially the first timers. I was just calm and collected. My goal was after all to finish with a decent time compared last year. My race mantras were "run my own race", "race management", "be positive", "do my best where I am now", "keep moving" and "for the Philippine flag". I knew who would be in the lead pack and honestly, I did not mind. I was not racing, period. Nor would I allow myself to get caught in the frenzy start. After having done ultras before, the calm, calculated restraint and confidence are there for you to utilize to your advantage.

I was worried about my tight right hip giving me a problem like it did during PSA Akyathlon two weeks ago but it was not so. I had a bigger one. More on this shortly.

START, PANGAWAN TO BANAO AID STATIONS (KM28)

Not much here except I was running with Mark and Todd both from USA and Jhonley Ballesteros most of the time. Jhonley has good running skill going downhill. We were all within the top 10 positions. I kept reminding myself to get to KM102 Dayap Aid Station as fresh as possible. Robert Watson had a similar goal which we discussed on our way to Baguio before the race. Weather was good. Volunteers Juvy Pagtalunan, Joyce Llanada, Teacher Leny and locals were there to assist us. I had a double sachet Milo dissolved in less hot water which was full of quick calories and made you feel like a kid again. I never touched a soda or Gatorade. We tasted their arrozcaldo as well. Refreshing. Thank you gals!

Signing the FrontRunner mag for teacher Leny at Banao around 4AM (thanks Juvy for the pix)

ACCIDENT: BANAO, CABAYO TO NAPO TUYAK ABAYO (KM44)

While traversing this route, I was hoping for the sun to rise early as usual. Something magical and invigorating about the forthcoming sunrise. It is like going through a dark tunnel and the light at the end of it is the sun. I was leading this section and Mark and Todd were a few minutes behind me. I was still feeling strong at this point but not pushing it.

Then I finally reached the area called Cabayo en route to aid station Napo-Tuyak (KM44). We had to pass through vegetable terraces section where there was an on-going irrigation. So the ground was soft and muddy. There was one particular section where one had to walk around the edge of the terrace made of mud and rocks, the width of which is probably 10 inches. The choice was obvious - run on the dry path or risk muddy shoes or falling to the next terrace.

It was not this huge the terrace but just to give you an idea

I actually stopped for a while and assessed the best DRY route possible. I have no qualm about my shoes getting wet with water but mud is different. The grime and dirt that come with it seeping in your shoes could pose trouble later on. I could actually see the water cascading from above the terrace which made the area on which I was about to cross quite wet, muddy and tricky. Finally, I decided to walk gingerly around the edge when the ground beneath me suddenly gave in. My right foot slid, lost my balance and I came hurling down 12 feet below. 2 acrobatic flips and my left thigh hit a rock midway and gave a big thud and another flip scraped my right knee causing open wounds. I ended up on my left back side soaking in stinky mud. You are about to view my injuries after 48 hours and so, VIEWER'S DISCRETION IS ADVISED!

Is it hematoma? Perhaps this is how it feels during hazing.

It probably took like less than 5 seconds for the accident to happen before my brain finally processed it. I staggered to stand and tried to climb back up but the wall provided no good footing and was just too slippery. I could not afford another fall and so had to walk through the mud. I was shouting for Mark and Todd but they were still too far back to hear me. One thing I was thankful for was that my head did not hit any of the rocks. Otherwise, I cannot imagine the dire consequences. My TNF short got torn on the injured part and my precious Seal Skinz gloves got ripped from scraping the wall rock trying to control the fall. My shirt was just dirty.

Knee wounds were now gushing with blood and it crossed my mind if this was the end of my race. So when Mark and Todd came around, they asked me if anything was broken. I did not feel any but I had no idea how the injuries would affect my effort and performance later on. Needless to say, my morale hit rock bottom. Took a brief rest to assess my injuries and how to manage the remaining distance. To think I still had more than 120kms to go. Crap!!!

Later on, I heard some runners had some problems as well in this area.

NAPO-TUYAK, PULAG &BABADAK (KM62)

Mark and Todd went ahead and I wanted to follow but I was still in injury-assessment mode. They were just a few meters ahead of me. I made a mental note to receive first aid treatment in the next station at Napo. So a huge shout out to Cindy Sevilla for applying antibiotic on my injuries, Myla Go for giving me medicine and food, Boo and Vivian Toledo for assistance. Thank you dearly. I owe you gals especially Myla and Cindy. Cheers.

My accident earlier haunted my solo climb over Mt. Pulag. I was too weak, hungry and demoralized. It was taking me forever to reach the peak. I could not see a single soul. Mark and Todd just took off. Ran out of food as well. Thank you Isko for the egg sandwich and dinuguan both washed down with Minute Maid I was weary to drink. It took some time before the food energized me. I thought of DNF at Babadak given my accident but my stubborn, wild and tenacious personality would have none of it. Nada! Told myself, keep moving you prick! You are not dying yet. Ok it won.

As soon as I reached Babadak, I ate (the tinola was heavenly!), dried my shoes by the stove, changed socks and slept for 30 minutes. Just to be sure about it, I asked Trace to wake me up after 30 minutes. Thank you Trace and the 4x4 crew led by Piyod! Majo Liao and I think Johnley came in after a few minutes. Both did not sleep. The sleep was in anticipation of the looming long night run ahead and to recover from the seeming weakness and injury. I HATE THE SECOND NIGHT OF A RACE. It is just tough physically, mentally and your bio clock and rhythm just go out of whack. So when I woke up, there were a lot runners from H1 and P1 categories who came in already. I was energized though. By 1:30PM, I set out alone. Feeling better now but I was always paying attention to my injuries.

BABADAK, BALETE, BANAO TO DAYAP (KM102)

After leaving Babadak, I was running alone until I chanced upon Jhonley who was walking. We decided to stick together and then somewhere along the way, Jael caught us who also decided to run with us. It was way better this way with company during the second night. It keeps one awake and alive and in a way serving as pacer to each other. I had been telling them that those runners behind should be smart enough to stick together to tackle the 12 hours or so of running in the dark. We caught up also with Mia Constantino (who must have passed by Babadak while I was snoring), 2013 Champion, who also joined us. However, she asked us to go ahead because of a nagging pain. Along the way, we caught up with Majo and her pacer Dan.

The outside part of my left knee was giving me problem now. Pain was evident going down. My right knee with wounds was also like that. I tried to ignore both but was always aware.

Finally, Dayap! We were warmly welcomed by Mark Villafuerte, Nick Pasiken, Brian Tan Seng and other volunteers. Thank you so much gents! I changed socks and removed my filthy shirt. Heavenly! We ate and slept for 15-20 minutes by the bonfire. It was now very cold and heavily foggy. After a few minutes, Shine Teh came in and joined us by the fire.

DAYAP TO KAYAPA EAST PROPER MARKET (KM125)

So there were 4 of us now trying to run/trek through the night - moi, Jael, Jhonley and Shine. It is always entertertaining to run with other runners. Time flies and the storytelling is good. The pain in my left knee was increasing and my butt was hurting as well. The scrape on my hip was rubbing raw against my shorts and the right knee was a little swollen.

Jael, moi and Shine (thanks Baniwas for the pix)

Somewhere along the way, we lost Jhonley. We kept shouting and calling out his name but he would not respond. Darn. I was concerned if something bad happened to him and kind of frustrated for him to leave our group given we gave each other strength to keep moving. (Jhonley finished alright but beyond the cut-off time. If he stuck with us, probably ...).We decided to move on. At Kayapa East Market, we ate and changed some clothes for the daytime running. I was just glad to go to comfort room and changed shorts. Brought my trekking poles but they proved not indispensable in finishing the race. Majo with pacer Dan went ahead. Jael, Shine and I agreed not to nap anymore.

Thank you to Baniwas family - Tom, Gay and their kids for helping us here. Kudos!

KAYAPA EAST TO DOMOLPOS WAITING SHED (KM136)

Just the thought of climbing Mt. Ugo after all those mountains would drive anyone nuts. My both knees here were giving in especially my left knee. The fall had somehow caused the pain. Every downhill step produced a sharp pain outside. Crap. Jael was also tired. Shine on the other hand still looked composed and strong. We ate and drank at Domolpos station manned by Goldy Dela Cruz, Dennis Lopez and Allan Bulos who were very accommodating. Thank you so much!

Approaching Domolpos waiting shed (photo courtesy of Domolpos crew)

We only had less than 5 hours to get to the finish line and we still had to cover 24K to go through mountains! That thought scared a little crap out of me. We could not afford DNF now, not this time! So we tried to run even if it was exhausting and painful. I knew this point would come when your body would rebel against your will to keep going. Mental grit allows you to overcome that. Shine took off after I warned them of the looming time barrier. For me, this is the hardest part. The climb to the peak of Ugo was just hell. Hot weather, fatigue, injuires and my lack of sufficient water compounded it. Basically, we were spent already. Jael and I almost reached the peak at the same time. He told me to go ahead but I retorted that I would never leave him alone. Not this close to the finish line. Told him to dig deep! He took off and went down the peak and I was trailing behind him.

DOMOLPOS WAITING SHED TO FINISH LINE

We had a little more than 3 hours to cover 17K. I was worried it might not be enough given our present condition and the terrain ahead. I was comforted though of the 10K downhill run to the Kayapa but the problem was my left knee was hurting. Can I manage to run given the looming cut-off? Jael's ankle was painful as well. Shine was ahead of us.

As usual, the demons in your head were celebrating and your body could not be willed the way you wanted it to. Only your tenacity, grit or determination can overcome all odds. My mantra now was "DIG DEEP!" and rightly so. After 4 or so kilometers of climbing, trekking and jogging, we finally reached Ansipsip or Bundao which wide trail and cold weather gave us second or nth wind. Jael took off and was running. Yes, he was running. I followed suit and was ignoring my left knee and pain in my other body parts. Told myself, I would never DNF this race! I had been through worse (WS100 came to mind) and this was no different. I was not dying yet. Pacing or warming up myself for the long downhill running, I could see Jael up ahead. I swallowed some food just enough not to bonk. I maintained my pace until I passed him and just kept running even uphills. Something fired me up inside and adrenaline was flooding my body. I was having a good time running fast downhill and could not believe was enjoying it. I even caught Majo and Dan who were perhaps surprised and knew Jael was just a few minutes behind me. This was so until I crossed the finish line. As usual, the Finish Line is always a liberation. An oasis. Was just damn glad it was over!

IN HINDSIGHT

With enough data on elevation profile now and experience of running it twice, I can honestly say this is a very hard race. Period. Just like Hardrock 100, I also call HARDCORE 100, a post-graduate 100 mile race. One has to be ready physically, psychologically, mentally and experience wise to tackle this course. No chinks in your armor. A trail runner with enough experience can probably finish 100K races with minimal training but not 100 miles. That last 60K is akin to another 100K because of fatigue, elevation and whatnot. So respect the distance.

Above all, one has to have strong will and determination to finish it. I could safely say now after doing several trail 100-mile races that it is more of mental prowess that physical.

Thank you Jonel, Connie, volunteers, Frontrunner magazine and crew for H1. What can I say, you did a good job! Kudos.

Cheers,

Jon (still nursing sore butt and knees and uhm, looking for another 100-mile trail race soon :)

Thank you to my wife Lanie and family for prayers, friends who joined me during the training - Noel and Precy (for Paleo bread as well), CJ and others.

Exhausted! (courtesy of Alex Jones)

God knows how many of these we had to cross

↧

RD Thoughts - Addendum to H1 Race Report

March 4, 2014, 8:49 pm

≫ Next: My 6th TNF100K

≪ Previous: 2014 Hardcore 100 Race Report

Original logo or map of CM50

With the race finally over, I can't help but post this addendum to my 2014 race report. For purposes of this discussion, reference will be made to other popular 100-mile races like Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), Western States 100-mile Endurance Run (WS100), etc., both of which I was lucky to have participated in. The end goal of this post being to contribute to the further success of our local ultra trail races. So all constructive contributions here.

I have posted in FB why is it that UTMB is hugely popular among ultrarunners from all over the world given it has equally tough terrain and elevation to contend with like H1?

The obvious answers are fantastic out-of-this-world views of Mont Blanc or alpine terrain, world-class organization and sponsors, ease of registration, impeccable trail markings, immense support of local community from France, Italy to Switzerland, good loot, accessibility, wide choices for accommodation, tourist-friendly, among others. Among these factors, the terrain (elevation, etc.) on which the race is held is more or less a fixed feature, and thus, a significant consideration when planning to hold a race. It is fixed simply because the organizer cannot alter or modify what Nature has created. For trail races, the terrain should offer a fantastic view of the surrounding vista, existing trail path (technical or not), varied flora and fauna and weather which are totally opposite of road races. Although, some road races do offer fantastic views as well.

The rest of the factors or elements listed above are some things on which significant improvements can be made by the race organizer. While ease of registration, trail markings and good loot are totally in the hands of the organizer, the other factors take time to develop. One of these is community support. I have personally witnessed how locals go out of their way to volunteer whether individually or as a group (mostly runners) year after year in a race, cheer on the runners even in the dead of the night, to offer their medical services, security or other technical expertise relevant to the race and beneficial to the runners. Even local leaders I reckon take interest in these races because of the huge economic impact to their constituents. Imagine hundreds or even thousands of runners flocking to a small town or locality to participate in a race! This phenomenon creates a domino effect from food, transportation to hotel establishments. It is tourism at its best. For instance, Chamonix, France is just a small local ski resort and yet during UTMB, it attracts 5,000 or more runners whose needs the community must support and sustain. Those are just runners. You have to account also their family members, friends, supporters and/or teammates. Also, hugely popular marathon races like New York, Boston, etc. which attract 50,000 or more runners! Wow, I can't even begin to imagine. Normally, when a runner plans to travel abroad for a race, she or he normally plans to extend her/her stay so she/he can spend more days to recover and check out the place. It only makes sense and thus, further contributes economically.

Another consideration is the "tourist-friendly" factor. If I were to travel for several hundreds or even thousands of miles across the globe for a hard ultra race (100 miles for instance), I'd want some of my basic needs to be met satisfactorily. I mean, if I were to spend several hard-earned money, I would want to spend it wisely on stuff that will cater to my needs as a runner. Facilities like hotels or low-cost but comfortable accommodations must be in place. Restaurants that cater to the needs of athletes and thus should offer healthy yet reasonably-priced food. If it is a mecca destination race, you might want sports stores to be in there as well to take care of the gear and technical needs of the runners. These facilities take time to develop because they require investment and the prospect of good ROI for business peeps. In fine, the psychology for me here is that the the difficulty of the actual race itself must somehow be compensated or offset by the comfort or ease of race-related facilities, before and after the race. Sort of a reward for the hard effort one puts in for the race. So the misery is offset by the beauty of the place or community perhaps or the tourism the country offers. Being able to roam around post-race to check out other interesting places is indeed a bonus.

Having raced in both ends of the spectrum, there seems to be a direct correlation between races held in developed and developing countries in terms of how well organized they are. In developed countries, you will hardly hear reports of trail markers being removed by the locals, who seem to have passion for, take interest in and have a stake in the race itself. In other words, they take pride in it. Transportation is not a problem. These countries offer varied and cheap, public transportation which in fact help to contribute to the level of comfort and peace of mind of the runners. Inexpensive hotels and restaurants, security and other hosts of desirable amenities are evidently in place as well.

Areas in which I think our local race organizers need to focus on is not just on the conduct of the race itself. The pre-race and post-race stages as well are very important. We need to be attentive to the needs of runners. Unfortunately, to a certain degree, these are the areas in which we are almost entirely dependent on what the local community or our country, in general, offers. As organizers, we cannot build infrastructures like roads, highways, bridges, additional airports or supports facilities or services like hotels, restaurants, groceries, cheap public transportation, sports shops, etc, etc.

different color

Instead of lamenting or pre-occupying our minds on things that we do not have yet to further cater to the needs of the runners, we might as well focus on the things we have control of. To begin with, our local ultra trails races like H1 or CM50 are small races. Our primary advantage is that we, as organizers, have the opportunity to get to know more of each runner whether from overseas or local. This is so because we are involved in every aspect of the race starting from race-related inquiries months before the event, promotion, registration, pre-race briefing, during race itself and post-race. We are hands-on. We are not only close to runners but to a certain extent, with sponsors as well. In sum, we provide a certain level of comfort or attention to runners unlike in other big popular races abroad where, for instance, you don't know who you are talking to at the other end of the e-line (which is of course not at all entirely wrong). Personally, I answer each and every email or SMS or phone inquiry of every runner even where or how busy I am. Truth be told, I find a distinct satisfaction in that. We are of course not deluded into thinking that our local races cannot accommodate further improvement. On the contrary. We still have a long way to go and we are getting there gradually. Our local ultras are still in its infancy stage if one compares it to other ultras abroad that have been around for more than 30 years!

At the end of the day, we, as race organizers, offer not just race experience to runners. In its most basic concept, we provide the "trail" to share the same PASSION for running with them. That my friend is the bottom line.

While I have a natural propensity to join races abroad because of their popularity, scenery, difficulty (or opposite of it) or opportunity (because the race happens to coincide with work, seminar or business meeting abroad), I will still be drawn to local ultra races. The obvious reasons are economic and local comfort. Personally, they offer the most basic, primal challenges to runners. Hardcore 100 Miles Ultramarathon (H1) is a stand-out example. That race will test every fiber of any ultrarunner. It is like going through a pilgrimage or baptism of fire where your belief in oneself should be solid and pure, your self-sufficiency is well-developed, have enough experience (ergo, the term "post-graduate" race), and your desire to conquer the ruggedness and rawness of the course and terrain is unwavering. To think and admittedly Kayapa does not have or offer world-class facilities to add another level of comfort to runners unlike in other ultras abroad where they are being held. Simple amenities. Another factor that adds to the primal appeal and experience of H1 is the remoteness of the course where one needs to be very very comfortable running alone for several hours on end even in the darkness and coldness of the night. That takes a higher level of maturity, patience, focus and independence. In UTMB, I found it amusing that you will always be running with another runner. You'd always have a company who could be your fellow Pinoy, and after several hours, a Japanese and then later on a Brazilian or Italian. This is not the case during H1 where one has to be prepared and comfy to be alone and in a way, should be able to learn to fend for himself. H1, in a way, is a reflection of life in its challenging stages. So you want an ultra race that will challenge you like no other and take you to another level? Take on H1 then but I cannot guarantee the outcome. But from a purist point of view, H1 is the local race to gauge oneself. The term "Sparta(n)" seems apt.

This should not be construed as a way of unduly patronizing H1 because of the generosity of and I know the RD himself. Honestly, H1 and all other local trail ultras here (CM50 is not an exception) need to evolve and incorporate some improvements. We have still a big job to do.

When all things are said and done, I just hope the local ultrarunning community will continue to support each other and local races and be an active participants in races whether as runners or volunteers. Also, to call the attention of the RDs to what they think and feel should be done. In return, the RDs to listen and feel the pulse of the ultra community because that is the only way to move forward. Come to think of it, we are not doing this for the present generation. We are in fact gradually but steadily laying the foundation for the next ultra generation (hopefully our kids!).

Cheers,
Jon (preparing for CM50 race series as early as now)

↧

My 6th TNF100K

March 19, 2014, 7:02 pm

≫ Next: 2014 ARAYAT MOUNTAIN RACE RESULTS

≪ Previous: RD Thoughts - Addendum to H1 Race Report

Bonjour everyone!

The 7th edition of TNF100 trail ultra will be happening this 03 May 2014 up again in Baguio City, Philippines. (Heard rumor that it will be its last edition in Baguio. Can anyone among you confirm this?) I have had the willingness to suffer and be consistent since 2008 to finish this sort of "pilgrimage" race except when it was moved down South in CamSur in 2011. Oh well, it is what it is.

The 2008 (first) edition was my first 100k trail ultra and it was held in Batangas comprising of 2 loops more or less of 50K. It was crazy with storm, mud and all. I remember vividly how hard it was. But I was glad I took the deep plunge and somehow, I managed to connect to my inner being. Morbid as it may sound but the realization or revelation during the race for me then was that I actually thrive in suffering and pain. I think It is safe to assume that ultrarunners know this realization that somehow they have this symbiotic relationship with suffering and pain.

Fast forward. The last few editions of this race saw me putting up an average effort bordering on mediocrity. Take for example my crazy goal last year to finish the 2013 TNF100 from the "get-go" with almost no training. Well I did survive but with DOMS galore afterwards :) Well, I should not be surprised.

For 2014, I am mixing things up a bit. My goal now is to put a more-than-average effort (no, not podium. Too many young and fast runners now what with TNF100 prizes up for grabs to entice them!)) so I can finish it in sub-20 hours just like my blissful effort and strong finish in Four Lakes 100 (17:27) last year. Man, that day was really good! Strong good effort all throughout the race (Four Lakes 100) with almost no bad patches. That is something rare.

Training wise, my body is responding well to speed sessions now which I have been trying to maintain after Hardcore 100 miles last February. I don't lack the endurance what I need is to gain some winds to push me faster. However, the bad fall somehow during Hardcore 100 affected my post-race training. It was actually bad than I initially thought. Lingering tightness in my hip but it is better now. Time heals all wounds indeed. Well the long scar is still there and every time I look my behind, it will always remind me of the incident during the 2014 edition of Hardcore 100.

So that is what is coming soon aside from our small race up in Arayat National Park - ARAYAT MOUNTAIN RACE. Somehow this race keeps us with my co-organizers and ultrarunners, Precy and Noel Hernandez busy climbing every weekend to gain some elevation for 2014 TNF100. So you can say it is a dual purpose for us.

Cheers!

Jon (wondering when or whether he will ever get the chance to realize his full potentials or peak as ultrarunner)

↧

2014 ARAYAT MOUNTAIN RACE RESULTS

April 8, 2014, 2:07 am

≫ Next: RUNNING EVERYDAY

≪ Previous: My 6th TNF100K

NOTE:Before reading up on the race results below, finishers can claim their AMR medal from me as I will be running the Salomon Xtrail on 12 April 2014 and during TNF100 on 03 May 2014 in Baguio. If you have any concern, please email AMR. Race results will be posted (rightly so) as well on the race website. Cheers!

2014 ARAYAT MOUNTAIN RACE RESULT

06 April 2014

Top 3 Male

Rank	Bib No.	Name	Time
1	1064	Vincent, Al	1:37:40
2	1025	Grey, Mark Bryan	1:40:13
3	1088	Manso, Jimmy	1:45:25

Top 3 Female

Rank	Bib No.	Name	Time
1	1007	Codilla, Daphne Rose	2:43:55
2	1065	Visperas, Daisy	2:53:20
3	1070	Jervoso, Roanne	3:01:59

Overall Ranking

Rank	Bib No.	Name	Time
1	1064	Vincent, Al	1:37:40
2	1025	Grey, Mark Bryan	1:40:13
3	1088	Manso, Jimmy	1:45:25
4	1095	Diserto, Danilo	1:48:08
5	1086	Gutierrez, Jason	1:49:46
6	1033	Macatiag, Rennie	1:55:32
7	1063	Vicera, Yammie	1:58:08
8	1087	Remigio, Thumbie	2:02:24
9	1001	Aquino, Patrick	2:05:07
10	1052	Sagayap, Dante	2:06:39
11	1042	Mortega, Jones	2:07:25
12	1097	Villacentino, Ronnie	2:09:30
13	1047	Poblete, Jeffrey	2:13:03
14	1081	Pineda, Ram Julius	2:19:34
15	1083	Alindada, Rocketbong	2:19:59
16	1076	Lapira, Isko	2:21:12
17	1085	Manlapaz, Jeremy	2:22:14
18	1018	Eming, Arnold	2:32:06
19	1041	Miranda, Simon Pavel T.	2:33:28
20	1050	Yob, Red	2:35:36
21	1098	Canete, Jayson	2:38:13
22	1003	Bauto, Adrian Soliman	2:39:07
23	1101	Recella, Glairold	2:43:19
24	1007	Codilla, Daphne Rose (F)	2:43:55
25	1009	Corpuz, Jonald	2:45:15
26	1027	Hernandez, Vladimir A.	2:47:09
27	1079	Dela Cerna, Stanley	2:48:37
28	1004	Beltran, Orland Danis F.	2:53:04
29	1065	Visperas, Daisy (F)	2:53:20
30	1059	Termulo, Benj	2:56:57
31	1108	Magnayon, Glenn	2:59:59
32	1070	Jervoso, Roanne (F)	3:01:59
33	1053	San Diego, Joey	3:02:07
34	1031	Lafuente, Michael	3:04:18
35	1002	Baltazar, Jerome	3:06:58
36	1100	Banatlao, Marl	3:07:39
37	1026	Hernandez, Roberto Jr.	3:07:45
38	1055	Siazon, Jeffrey	3:07:45
39	1082	Sunga, Jon	3:10:40
40	1103	Perez, Ritchelle (F)	3:11:19
41	1102	Tuazon, Meljohn	3:11:26
42	1092	Bermudo, Cyril	3:11:26
43	1040	Miranda, Reuben T.	3:11:39
44	1054	Saracho, Marlon	3:11:54
45	1046	Pinpin, Bryan D.	3:11:56
46	1049	Ramos, Jonjons	3:12:28
47	1019	Favila, Chris	3:13:34
48	1022	Galang, Nestor	3:14:06
49	1051	Reyes, Darwin	3:14:13
50	1058	Tapia, Raul	3:14:19
51	1008	Corpuz, Jerald D.	3:14:28
52	1071	Mendoza, Joemel	3:17:38
53	1109	Ronquino, Paula Joyce (F)	3:18:00
54	1090	Enriquez, Bernard	3:21:40
55	1000	Ang, Prince	3:24:50
56	1038	Marisga, Joel	3:24:55
57	1021	Flores, Michael	3:26:12
58	1105	Layug, JJ	3:27:57
59	1084	Nacpil, Jay	3:32:52
60	1091	Suba, Naz	3:32:53
61	1077	Abenina, Jeff	3:32:54
62	1089	De Jesus, Joseph	3:38:18
63	1034	Magdangal, Christopher	3:39:27
64	1057	Tanjutco, Nica Lorraine	3:42:25
65	1067	Quizon, Romy	3:43:42
66	1014	Dauz, Michael	3:44:49
67	1013	Dauz, Maristela (F)	3:44:53
68	1017	Dizon, Anthony Jesus	3:48:00
69	1029	Jason, Anthony	3:49:41
70	1024	Go, Ronnel	3:50:19
71	1104	Soriano, Joel	3:50:25
72	1011	Dagasuan, Adriell Matthew	3:56:05
73	1081	Tomas, Marc	3:59:26
74	1062	Vannier, Damien	4:01:50
75	1078	Tan, Jayson King	4:05:28
76	1035	Mallari, Lourdes Therese S. (F)	4:06:05
77	1066	Tanglao, June	4:06:17
78	1096	Sarical, Markrinello	4:09:28
79	1074	Logan, Marineth A. (F)	4:14:15
80	1075	Logan, Gilbert B.	4:14:15
81	1010	Cruz, Ivy B. (F)	4:17:02
82	1015	Lacson, Norman	4:32:06
83	1012	Capati, Denis	4:.32:07
84	1073	Lansangan, General Mc	4:34:13
85	1072	Cayanan, Rose Airene (F)	4:34:14
86	1068	Daguia, Christy	4:38:43
87	1093	Herrera, Rebecca D. (F).	4:41:13
88	1094	Herrera, Ruben D.	4:41:14
89	1037	Maquirang, Marvin	4:42:35
90	1039	Mendoza, Ayn (F)	4:44:00
91	1045	Pelayo, Harvey	4:48:04
92	1028	Hilario, Maria Dela Fe (F)	4:53:17
93	1005	Coates, Jodell T.	5:04:12
94	1094	Calaguas, Boyet	5:05:09
95	1044	Pattaui, Erwin	5:08:40
96	1060	Turla, Elaine Joyce (F)	5:19:37
97	1048	Poblete, Roderick	5:19:37
98	1036	Manlapaz, Joyce (F)	5:20:21
99	1006	Collado, JanIvan Vincent	5:20:22
100	1043	Navao, Sarah (F)	5:28:49
101	1032	Limos, Migo	5:28:50
102	1069	Dedicatoria, Francis	6:10:15

↧

RUNNING EVERYDAY

April 20, 2014, 6:49 pm

≫ Next: CONVENIENCE

≪ Previous: 2014 ARAYAT MOUNTAIN RACE RESULTS

Here is a good article from Gary Cantrell, RD of Barkley from Ultrarunning on forming the Habit of Daily Running which I am still trying to form after years of running. It is a struggle for me ... sometimes.

Habits Or The Trick Of Running Every Day

By Gary Cantrell

04/09/2014

Habit: A recurrent, often unconscious pattern of behavior that is acquired through frequent repetition.

There really is no big secret to improve our results as ultrarunners. For all the time and energy we expend on nutrition, gear, cross training, and other peripheral aspects of the sport; in the end our results are a direct reflection of our training mileage. And the biggest obstacle to accumulating the mileage necessary to achieve the results we desire is inconsistency.

Ultrarunners of the previous generation had some big advantages in achieving consistency in their training. Most newcomers simply transitioned into running ultras from a long career competing at shorter distances. Training habits that had been acquired from youth were already in place.

When we talk of habits in terms of sports, we are really referring to two distinctly different things. One sort of habit is the way we perform fundamental skills. In basketball we drill players repeatedly on basic fundamental skills. This is not because they are not capable of performing those skills, but rather, through repetition to ingrain the finer points of the skill until they can be performed in the course of play without consciously concentrating on doing them right. As runners, we also benefit from paying attention to our fundamental running form. Just as a professional golfer might have to regularly work to correct flaws that develop in his swing, despite having practiced his craft daily for decades, any runner can develop sloppy habits in his running form. Frequently the issues we refer to as “overuse” injuries are actually the accumulated damage caused by running with poor form.

The habit that we are talking about here is the habit of daily training. Whenever the term habit comes up, there is a tendency to couch the discussion in negative terms. Habits are bad things that we acquire, and must make an effort to “break.” The truth is, not all habits are bad habits; although it often seems that bad habits can be picked up with a single repetition, while good habits require constant drilling, repetition, and effort.

This advice is not just for the newcomers to the sport (especially those from a non-sports background), but also for those who have been around, and are not making the progress they feel should be made, and especially for those who have been in the sport for a while, but are finding themselves trying to compete with less and less training mileage in the bank. And the advice is simple: run every day. Make training a good habit. It seems to be in vogue to claim that a runner can train adequately on only a few runs a week. While this is technically true, the reality is that few people can pull off that feat. It is too easy to let a day slip here and there. It is unlikely that any days will ever be added. Ultimately most periodic runners become infrequent runners… and eventually non-runners.

I am not advocating that everyone should become a streaker, one of those unique people who have run for decades without missing a day. That degree of fanaticism is not necessary. However, running every day for the duration of a training cycle will yield great results. For example, if you are planning to race primarily during the summer months; start in March or April, and run every day through the summer. Or one can set a goal of running every day during the training cycle for a single event (generally 8-12 weeks). Or, as an initiation of sorts, one can simply try to run every day for a month. Whatever the approach, the results will exceed your expectations. There will be more miles in your log, you will be in better condition, and over time it will become much easier to get out and do the miles you intended. Every race is do-able when you are filling out the entry form. How you spend the time between that, and toeing the start line, will determine how do-able it is on race day.

As easy as running every day may be in concept, there are many obstacles to putting it into practice. The individual days do not all have to be memorable efforts. Even a single mile will serve the purpose. Setting out to do a single mile is enough, because the number one enemy of the daily run is the same enemy that so often thwarts our training – inertia. Inertia is the physical property that a body in motion stays in motion, while a body at rest stays at rest. That law applies to our bodies just as well. There seems to be an immutable truth that the most difficult part of every training run is stepping out the door. This is the first place where daily running pays dividends. That planned hard 10-miler, which might have been skipped just because we did not “feel like doing it” follows naturally on the heels of the single mile we forced ourselves to do. As a daily runner, you will be amazed at the frequency with which you set out to do only one mile, because you have to, and end up running much further.

Another major obstacle is the infamous “schedule.” This is the modern world, where we all believe we are too busy; all the time. One of the great benefits of running every day is learning that, when our schedule necessarily intrudes on running time, we can simply change the time we run. Eventually it becomes a routine part of our schedule to think about when we will run tomorrow. We manage to work in all the necessary facets of living, no matter how busy our schedule. We must eat. We must sleep. And for the every-day runner, we must run. Somewhere in any schedule is 15 minutes to run.

Other limitations are artificially self-imposed. One of the beauties of running is that it requires no special venue or facilities. We can literally run almost anywhere. While it might initially seem that maintaining a daily running schedule while traveling, or facing other obstacles would be difficult, if not outright unpleasant, the truth is finding the time and place to run can be an adventure in and of itself. One can never know what is just around the corner, without going there. And more often than not, what is found is more than worth the trip. One memorable day found me at a motel during a blizzard, with a busy 4-lane highway in front, and the road behind blocked with huge mounds of snowplowed snow and ice. The prospect was distinctly unappealing, but I set off clambering over the ice/snow mounds figuring I would somehow get in my required minimum 15 minutes of running. I soon came to the entrance to a high school football stadium, and inside found myself alone in a vast expanse of pristine, knee-deep snow…. Two hours later, I headed back to the hotel, only because I had run out of time.

And then there is the weather. To a periodic runner, the weather might be an obstacle. To the every day runner, it is just another adventure. Be it 114 degrees or minus 30; a blizzard or a line of thunderstorms, the most extreme weather only adds spice to the daily diet of miles.

The tools to developing the daily running habit are simple; shoes and the desire to become a better runner. I found a simple wall calendar to be an enticing extra. Watching the blocks slowly fill with numbers becomes a motivating force in and of itself. Empty squares cannot be tolerated. Initially, running every day can be difficult. But, soon the habit is ingrained, and those mileage totals seem to climb of their own accord. The results will show on race day.

↧

CONVENIENCE

December 22, 2013, 10:10 pm

≫ Next: 2014 TNF100 RACE REPORT (with bonus pictures from 2008 TNF100)

≪ Previous: RUNNING EVERYDAY

There are several factors I would consider to take on a trail outside of my perimeter or comfort zone:

Some liked it, others complained :)

The deal was to carry my youngest (Marcus) when it was too steep. View deck on the uppermost part of the pix.

Sophia and Marcus. Falls in the background.

I had to be the sweeper and to watch over them. Trail leading to the Falls.

The Family

Frolicking in the water. It was cold!

Patricia and Nathan enjoying the cool crisp cascading water.

The hard climb back up from the Falls

Break! :) This is the climb after view deck to the car.

3. Elevation - Hills/mountains give you the leg strength like no other and it adds variety to an otherwise boring run.

Trees, dense foliage, water source, river crossings, cool weather are just bonuses.

Cheers,

Jon - wishing everyone HAPPY YULETIDE!!!

P.S.

H1 - I just realized that this race is already in February. Given the limited time to train, the proper approach for now is smart training and maximize the time spent on the trail.

↧

2014 TNF100 RACE REPORT (with bonus pictures from 2008 TNF100)

May 6, 2014, 4:27 am

≫ Next: CGT 2015

≪ Previous: CONVENIENCE

This is one of those races when you've earned the favor of mountain gods. Last weekend, I finally managed my 6th TNF100 out of 7 races which goes all the way back from 2008. The only edition I missed was the 2011 when it was held in CamSur. What sort of madness has possessed me to keep having the same dish (race) every year? I don't know. All I know is I am an ultrarunner. It is what I do and love. It is what it is and thus, I don't owe anyone an explanation since no one can fathom what I do unless he is my kindred in the sport.

What is significant about this race is that I managed to PR (18:49) on the same course for its 3rd consecutive run since 2012. In 2012, it's 21 ++ and then last year with almost no training, 23 ++. To what do I attribute this PR? Read on ...

Nice medal!

The ALTRA boys - from left: Yob, Blue, moi, Raffy, CJ, Brian, Bong and Ronnel

during the pre-race briefing

Outside the pre-race briefing. Thanks to ALTRA for the shirt courtesy of Blue!

TRAINING

My training started after 2013 CM50 with Hardcore 100 miles as training run (just wanted to finish my now annual "pilgrimage" race) last February with PSA Skyrace and Salomon X-Trail as well. Holding Arayat Mountain Race last April also helped a lot to get in that much-needed elevation for TNF100. As in we were almost up there every weekend marking, sweeping, clearing the course.

Joining training races prior to a goal race is now a common trick among competitive runners. It helps one to gauge his strength as well as weaknesses before doing the goal race which for me was TNF100K (the last few years have been a pathetic effort on my part which translates to the local parlance "Bahala na si Batman").

So to answer the question above - to what do I attribute the PR 18:49? - SPEED sessions. Getting old in ultrarunning has its positive sides. The negative is time makes one slow. Much I dislike joining too many road races , I have strategically incorporated them in my training from 10K to full mary. I did also "unscheduled" tempo runs when my body was unusually energetic. Unscheduled in the sense that I followed what my body was telling me. While I did 2 speed sessions almost every week, I did not follow specific days to do it. So if during my easy session when my body wanted to crank it up, I followed what it told me to do so. Oh well, there were slow days too when my body felt like sleeping on the side of the trail or road! It happens. I did also 200mx4 at all-out effort. Gym twice a week and boxing too. After the incident during 2014 Hardcore 100-mile race, I religiously followed my core training. That was it. I am sure some of you know this training already. It ain't a secret. Oh another thing to spice up my training is I ran from work-house-work for several days in a week. The convenient arrangement was to leave my car (containing all my stuff) at the office and then ran home in the evening. The next morning I woke up early to run again, pick up my clothes from the car, gym (if there is time), shower and then work. Rinse and repeat. One way was 13k (26k total for the whole day). It was the easiest way for me to rack up some mileage for a week and kept my ass on the go. I tapered for 1 week and the total weekly mileage before taper reached around 105kms with quality workouts and elevation. With that load or the beauty of training properly and specifically for a race like this is that one recovers faster because the body is used to the amount of stress and thus properly adapted.

from left: Robert, moi, Nick, Jonel and Ronnel before 3AM

with Robert Watson

With Ronnel aka General Go :)

FIRST 53K

This covers from the Start up to Aid Station 5 at Kennon Road. At 3AM start, we were off. I think it was colder last year. Took it easy for the first few kilometers and hit the gas, so to speak, before entering the trail path where it was a bottle neck. I was just taking it easy and felt good overall. I made a mental note to be careful because of wet trail from the rain yesterday. All the stuff I needed was in my bag and just like last year, I did not bother to leave a drop bag at AS5 this time.

The first few kilometers of the race told me it would be a good day. That unmistakable feeling of being healthy, cognizant, strong and no tummy problem. That good vibe accompanied me throughout the race just like my Four Lakes 100K race (time was 17:25) last year. A rare treat indeed.

I reached AS5 (Kennon Road) at exactly 11AM or 8 hours and was surprised by it. The 12k route from AS4 to AS5 is always a killer what with steep downhill road and hot/exposed sections. I thrashed my quads here but gained some position. The legs could actually take some punishment from climbing mountains. I love downhill running and these old knees are still up for the job. When I reached AS5, I showered at the nearby faucet. My body was overheating a bit despite my solid heat training. As usual, this part is exposed to vehicle fumes and sun. After eating and drinking and removing debris from my shoes, I set off towards hell.

AS5 TO AS7 (KM73)

This is 20kms of "uphell" which one will have to navigate during daytime when it is hot and humid. Saw some runners bathing on a stream to cool off while the rest of us were suffering while ascending ever so slowly. The thing is you're full and bag loaded after passing through AS5 and you have to take all that weight up with you. Go figure. Well, you just have to suck it up. Ran here with Majo shortly and Thumbie (who will be my company almost to the finish line until he decided to abandon me along the way without a byword :)

Dinosaurs :)

AS7 is misplaced and not properly positioned. Thumbie and I were surprised to stumble upon it so close from AS6. After a few kilometers up, there is another satellite station which had the correct coordinates.

THE QUICKENING - AS8 (KM75) TO FINISH LINE

This is where it started to rain. I knew night would come upon us even when I was originally aiming for sub-20 finish time. When I picked up my headlamp, it did not want to turn on! Damn it. Batteries were new so what gives? Then I realized this is not my old reliable waterproof Fenix which I replaced with light Black Diamond and flashlight. Flashlight was working though. My advice is to bring a good flashlight for night running in cold foggy environment. Try it. You'll have more visibility on the ground than sticking a light up on your forehead.

Are some of you familiar with the movie Highlander II: The Quickening,a 1991 British-French science fiction action film directed by Russell Mulcahy and starring Christopher Lambert, Sean Connery, Virginia Madsen and Michael Ironside? You know that distinct "quickening" action when the protagonist Christoper Lambert kills an enemy?

I always get that feeling deep within me when it starts to rain, becomes foggy, cold and dark during a trail race especially when in isolation. This happened between AS8 to AS10 when I was mostly running alone. There is some sort of quickening, a desperation of some sort as if your life is on the line. So your body goes on overdrive, your senses heightened and your awareness is even more keen. It pushes you, makes you stronger and faster. It could be adrenaline but I reckoned it goes deeper within the psyche. This feeling lasted until I was trying very hard to come under 19 hours. Told myself, this would never come to pass again. I just love running the last 6KM inside the Camp John Hay. Very runnable trail. Was flying!

Noel and Isko

OBSERVATION

This observation is aimed to provide a constructive post-race feedback given the reputation of North Face as a worldwide corporate brand actively involved in ultrarunning. So this is my personal observation from running the 100k distance.

PROS

- Impeccable, superb trail markings for both night and day running. This is A++

- Awesome medal. Heavy, hip and creative!

- Nice original TNF shirt for 100k (I did not get one but it's ok)

- Improvement on the AS menu. I was glad to see choco milk drink, hot food and bread.

- Cold sports drink

- Very friendly, helpful and smiling race marshals. Somehow, their smiles lighten up our suffering.

- Nice Start/Finish area

- Availability of ice

- Well-staffed aid stations of medics, et. al.

- Strategically placed race marshals to direct runners

- On-time Start

Hmm, what else? I'll just add when I get to remember some more.

CONS

- Some parts of the course need to be swept and cleared for better footing and safety of runners. I don't mean to sanitize it.

- No finisher shirt as posted in the website (NOTE: I don't expect to have one since ROX provided me a free entry. Thank you again by the way). Organizer should come out with an acceptable explanation. Could it be that the Finisher's shirt is the same shirt that they initially gave away and thus what is written below is an oversight?

"Registration fee inclusions: 50 and 100K runners will get:

Cash and Product Prizes for winners
Finishers medal only
Authentic TNF100 Race Jersey, Bib,TNF100 stickers and raffle entry
TNF100 Finisher’s shirt for all finishers per category
Free TNF Camp Chair and round trip bus ride Manila-Baguio-Manila for the first 5 registrants per store (50k/100k)
Free post event “boodle- brunch” courtesy of D.O.T. CAR
Finisher’s Certificate"

- Boiled bananas (Saba) that are NOT yet ripe for eating. They were too hard even after boiling or steaming! I mean you could not even eat them.

- Marketing hype for the race should be subservient or equal to condition and conduct of the actual race

- Aid Stations need to feed runners and thus menu needs to improve further.

- Delayed posting of race results

- Exposed drop bags to the sun ... again?!!! My friends' bag's content could not be consumed

- Inaccurate location of AS7

Should my memory improve, I'll add more to the list.

Cheers,

Jon (recovering pretty well and enjoying his downtime. Next year is on the 17 hour range finish ... hopefully :)

P.S. Thank you R.O.X for the free entry and Noel and Precy for the ride. All photos from FB except the medal :)

BONUS PICTURES FROM 2008 TNF100, NASUGBU, BATANGAS. I was looking for my article on this which I posted in our PinoyUltrarunners blog but Multiply.com is already dead; killed by FB :)