Saturday, March 29, 2014

Running Rewards!

One of the things I look forward to is rewarding myself for certain running milestones.

2014 has been so good to me so far:
- My back-to-back 21km PRs from PSE Bull Run and Financial Fitness Run

And with that I rewarded myself with the best running gear:
- Asics Kayano 20 (thanks to Loyce for helping me get a discount on this very nice pair of running shoes which I purchased from Asic/Onitsuka Nuvali)
- Garmin Forerunner 220 (I purchased this on the official Garmin site and had it shipped at a US address of my officemate's sister. Thanks Jen for bringing it all the way from the US to the Philippines!)
- 2XU visor (I already have 2 visors - a black and a white one. Bought the red one from the 2XU Glorietta store)


- 2XU 3/4 compression tights (also bought from the 2XU Glorietta store - still remembering that awkward conversation with the salesman advising me not to wear undies if I use these tights. Hahaha!) But I did follow his advice so the laugh's on me.


Go ahead. Indulge. Shop and run!

NatGeo Run 2014 on April 27


As I write this post, most probably only a few slots remain at the in-store registration at SM Aura ground floor booth, or all categories could have been sold out already. So I'll just skip the registration details and post what registered runners need to know for the big day. I'm so excited for this!

WHAT: NatGeo Earth Day Run 2014
WHEN: April 27, 2014 (Sunday)
WHERE: Bonifacio Global City
RACE CATEGORIES: 3km, 5km, 10km, 21km, 42km
RACE ORGANIZER: Event King
RACE BENEFICIARY: World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for the Bancas for the Philippines Project
OFFICIAL HASHTAG: #natgeorun2014

NatGeo Run 2014 Assembly Time and Gun Time
 21k and 42k Race Finisher Items:
NatGeo Run 2014 21k and 42k Finisher Shirt Design
NatGeo Run 2014 21k and 42k Finisher Medal Design
RACE MAPS: 
 
 

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

adidas Climachill Apparel

*** Press Release ***
New adidas apparel lowers your temperature and raises your game


March 20, 2014 – Today, adidas launched a revolution in active cooling technology, the adidas Climachill™ range. The range incorporates an innovative fabric using titanium and 3D aluminium cooling spheres. The technology provides an instant ‘chill’ effect to help athletes’s performance in warm conditions lowering their body temperature so they can train harder, run longer, retain their focus and compete better.

adidas understands the importance of temperature management to make athletes better and for the first time used evaporation and conduction methods together.  Revolutionary aluminium cooling spheres are strategically located to correspond with the warmest area of the body, cooling skin down upon contact. In addition to the aluminium dots, the ground-breaking SubZero flat yarn contains titanium and is woven throughout the inside of each Climachill™ jersey, delivering up to 36 % more cooling capacity*.


The range was rigorously tested in the state of the art adidas ‘Clima’ chamber, with temperatures as high as 50°C. By using a 35-degree ‘hot plate’ to simulate critical functions of the human skin, adidas were able to determine a pre-selection of functional fabrics to find the ultimate Climachill™ fabric.

The Climachill™ technology goes on sale worldwide from 1 April within various categories including; Men’s, Women’s and Kid’s Training, as well as Tennis and Outdoor wear. The key pieces in the Climachill™ product range are the Men’s Training t-shirt and the Women’s Tennis top.


David Beckham, Climachill™ ambassador commented on the new range: ‘Playing and training in extreme conditions can be very challenging both mentally and physically. In my time as a player I have played in cold conditions in the North of England and in very hot climate in the US – weather can really make a difference to an athlete’s performance. The technology used in the Climachill™ range will really help athletes concentrate on their game so they can perform at their best, even in the harshest of conditions.’

Heike Leibl, adidas SVP for Training added: ‘At adidas we are constantly striving to create innovations to make the athlete comfortable so they can focus on performance. The Aluminium Cooling Spheres used in the Climachill™ range provide an instant ‘chill’ effect to keep the athlete at their peak optimum temperature to perform at their best in any conditions.”


The new adidas Climachill™ range will be available in the Philippines starting April 15 in leading adidas and sports stores nationwide.

For more information, go to news.adidas.com or facebook.com/adidasPH
*Compared to past adidas Climacool garments

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Alaska Cycle Philippines on May 16 to 18


For the bike enthusiasts out there, don't miss the Alaska Cycle Philippines happening this May!

WHAT: Alaska Cycle Philippines
WHEN: May 16 to 18, 2014
WHERE: Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
REGISTRATION SITE: http://www.cyclephilippines.com.ph/alaska/


Ride Categories
Registration Fees
Ride Kit Inclusions
Alaska Cycle Philippines Adults' Technical Tee and Size Chart
Alaska Cycle Philippines Kids' Technical Tee and Size Chart
 
Alaska Cycle Philippines F2P Bike Jersey and Size Chart
Rudy Project EFX
The Finisher Medals:
 
 

One-Pager Guide:



Wednesday, March 19, 2014

BDM 102 2014: Reporting for (Support) Duty!


It's always flattering to be invited to be part of an ultrarunner's support crew. It only means you're someone trust-worthy enough to take care of the runner's needs during the entire long distance event.

Supporting in Bataan Death March (BDM) 102km is not new to me as I've already supported last 2012 when my Team Alpha1 teammate Eugene embarked on his longest distance run yet. (He placed 2nd runner up by the way and you could read about that in my BDM 102 2012 blog post.)

Now being part of a new running team of ultramarathon addicts (Team Banana), I was already expecting requests for support as this year's BDM neared. Both Syril (Prof) and Wyatt (Bokidol) kept asking if I could be part of their support crew, and I kept asking them back of their concrete plans and strategies of which they did not have a ready answer. I remember when I supported Eugene two years ago, we had a number of meetings to really prepare ourselves for the big day, so I was kinda expecting the same. No planning sessions occurred, and I don't think someone even bothered attending the runners' briefing. Haha!

As race day neared it was still not clear to me whether I would support Sy or Wy, who is bringing a car, who will support who. I guess with their experience in their previous ultramarathon events it was more of "bahala na" mode. Little did they know that Bald Runner events are different, with strict guidelines and rules to follow, so a lot of preparations are vital.

March 1 came, a Saturday. Our rendezvous point was at Starbucks 6750, Makati. I did some shopping for some supplies before going there, as I had no idea what Syril or Wyatt brought with them. Compared to my experience previously where we stayed overnight at Mariveles, this time we met 4pm in the afternoon and planned to travel for about 5 hours to KM0, just in time for the 10pm race start. A little risky if you ask me, but we arrived there anyway, and we were greeted with a long queue at the runner's check-in counter.

Syril was not even wearing his shoes yet, we still did not have any ice, and time was ticking. Good thing support car #2 (Wyatt's) already had some tube ice available, so we split whatever they had into two, hoping that somewhere along the way we will be able to buy more ice.

So the support split was set:
- WYATT'S SUPPORT TEAM - Beck-beck, Raphie and Ikasam + 1 driver
- SYRIL'S SUPPORT TEAM - Me and Mervin + 2 drivers

Support Vehicles all geared up!
We went ahead to KM7, the first legal stop of runners after traversing the crazy, zigzag inclined road. As usual the festive mood was very prominent at this location as this is the area where almost all support cars converged and you get to see the early frontrunners of the race.

Our support cars, while leapfrogging, often meet whenever we park for our next stop, as Syril and Wyatt almost have the same pace, and they were just a few hundred meters apart. Wait times would usually be a time for chat, eating and of course cheering other runners on as they pass by. Oh and I forgot, taking pictures too!
Our runners posing for the camera = Wasted time LOL!
Eventually Syril caught up with Wyatt (with a corresponding epic set of tantrums which unfortunately Mervin and I failed to witness) so they instantly became pace buddies. Good timing as well as another Team SCR runner, Jaylord, needs replacement support (as his support car had some issues).

Mervin and I then became the support crew of two runners. As the sun started to rise, our 4km leapfrog strategy started to decrease to 3 to 2.5 to 2. Syril would alternate water and Gatorade as hydration on every stop, while Wyatt will clap his hands in anticipation whenever we approach him with an ice-cold Coke. Sy's source of energy would be Flat Tops or M&Ms, though I don't remember Wyatt consuming any solid food except for one stop wherein they both had a bite of California Maki.

Kilometer after kilometer our runners endured, even with the sweltering heat of the sun finally taking its toll on their bodies. The cold water spray and sponges really came in handy as every stop we needed to lower their temperature. At this point, I can't help but pity them as we could really see how they struggled to run in the heat of the sun. Stops and rests became longer. Mervs and I still managed to push them though to keep going, even though Wy and Sy already lost hope to bag the GOLD medal (finishers under 13 hours).

My favorite water spray! Wyatt and Syril still managed to strike a pose while suffering haha!
As we approached the final couple kilometers, I can't help but feel nostalgic - the feeling of meeting the runner you supported as he crosses the finish line, successful in his 102 kilometer journey. Supporting Eugene before and knowing he was 2nd runner-up, and now meeting both Wy and Sy as they finished strong, is a comparable, triumphant moment.

Wy and Sy placed 33rd and 34th respectively, among 300 runners and 253 official finishers, with a time of 13 hours and 38 minutes. I was there to capture their finish line moment, proud to be part of their support team.
Red Top, Yellow Legs and Yellow Top, Red Legs! Haha! Wy and Sy on their finish line moment
KM102 is a place for meet and greet, congratulating other BDM 102 warriors and finishers. And as you may already know, I have the photos to prove it.
Wattaface Prof! Also met JP who finished in 13:22! Almost hit the gold!
I had to have my photo taken with two of my running idols. Congratulations Syril and Wyatt! Thank you for trusting us to be part of your support team!
Post-race meal at Razon's
After having breakfast, we went back to the finish line area to meet more race finishers as the race cut-off approached.
Top-left: Prof and the ever-covered Archie
Top-right: Birthday Girl Jie and Ate She
Bottom-left: Confused and disoriented Loyce haha!
Bottom-right: BDM Grand Slam Queen Sheryll and Tong
Side-story: We were all wondering where our Team Banana teammate Mark Mark was. While we were anticipating his arrival at the finish line, the other support car (with Beck-beck, Ikasam, and Wyatt) was at KM95 also waiting for him to pass by. Mervin and I were discussing he might not make it to cut-off time, and were already feeling disappointed on the thought of Mark Mark not finishing the race. Funny thing is, those were worthless worries, as Mark Mark was just inside the KM102 hall resting! He also finished within the SILVER medal group. So all's well that ends well.

Mark Mark: Lost and Found
Team Banana has a lot to celebrate and be thankful for. Before heading home, we stopped by Jollibee NLEX for some BDM chit-chat (and reminiscing Prof's tantrums, LOL!).

A week later, the team had a "formal" celebration at Gerry's Grill. A few bottles of beer became legal. Thanks for Wy and Sy's treat!


Next year, I'm sure they will be eyeing that grand slam prize (BDM160 and BDM102). Haven't experienced supporting in 160 yet so I'm sure it'll be fun. I'm also contemplating on running 102, but we'll see.

Again, congratulations to Wyatt and Syril - BDM102 warriors! Let me end this blog post with their Facebook thank you messages, which made supporting them even more worth it.


Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Press Release: #NatGeoRun2014

*** Press Release ***
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL RUNS STRONG WITH EARTH DAY RUN YEAR 5!


On April 27, 2014, National Geographic Channel (NGC) renews its commitment to the environment by celebrating this year’s Earth Day (which falls on April 22 globally) with another round of its wildly successful Earth Day Run. Now on its fifth year, Earth Day Run is expected to attract 12,000 running enthusiasts of all ages and fitness levels to participate for the good of the environment.

Earth Day Run has consistently been besting its record for number of participants, with last year’s expected number of 10,000 runners demolished by an actual registered 12,000 participants. NGC hopes to replicate that success for Earth Day Run 2014 by registering 12,000 runners in the 3K, 5K, 10K and 21K categories, including a new fifth category of 42K designed to draw the most physically fit and expert runners in the country. The event itself is considered one of the biggest runs in the Philippines.

This year, NGC is working once again with its environmental partner, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), to make a solid difference in the Philippines’ environmental footprint and give sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. Last year, the two organizations used proceeds of the Earth Day Run to plant P1 million worth of fruit-bearing trees in the Abuan watershed in Isabela, in the Sierra Madre region. Besides partial reforestation of this important resource, local farmers were given the privilege to own and care for the trees as well as harvest their fruits for their income. In 2014, NGC promises to raise money  for WWF’s Bancas For The Philippines project, which aims to train fishermen affected by Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) last November 2013 in the making and use of fiberglass boats for artisanal fishing. These boats are designed to withstand the onslaught of typhoons to ensure that the fishermen can continue with their livelihood in any event.

March 17, 2014 - Bloggers at the #NatGeoRun2014 Media Launch held at Vyne, BGC
WWF’s experts will train fishermen on site and help them build the fiberglass boats while reducing the use of sawn timber and plywood, in the hopes that the communities can produce one boat per day. Many fishermen were left with no sources of income when their boats were destroyed by Haiyan, and so this project is a significant step toward the rehabilitation of communities in Palawan, which was ravaged by the typhoon last November but slow to receive relief due to the sheer number of islands in central Philippines that needed to recover from the devastation. Earth Day Run 2014 aims to help these fishermen directly with the sharing of climate-smart technology that will help them recover their livelihood, as well as decrease the fishing pressure on our seas that have been heavily exploited by commercial fishing by promoting artisanal fishing for small-scale fishermen.

Earth Day Run uses recyclable materials for its race bibs and a “Zero Paper” registration process in the form of a Centralized Registration System, which National Geographic pioneered in the country. Participants can support the Haiyan rehabilitation efforts of NGC and WWF by signing up on www.natgeorun.com or visiting the sign-up booth at the Lower Ground floor of SM Aura from March 1 to April 20. Finishers of the longer races of 21K and 42K can not only take pride in their physical victory and willingness to help Haiyan survivors and the environment, but they will also each be getting a medal and finisher’s shirt to commemorate their triumph.

Nearly four months after Typhoon Haiyan, those affected by it still need so much help, and it has become important to sustain the public’s interest in their rehabilitation. Earth Day Run 2014 invites all runners to register and do their part while enjoying the health benefits of good exercise and unity in supporting the survivors of one of the most devastating natural disasters in the country’s history.

See you there! I'm running 42k!

Reebok Releases New Brand Mark

*** Press Release ***
REEBOK SIGNALS CHANGE WITH LAUNCH OF NEW BRAND MARK
New Mark Represents a Better Life Through Fitness 
The new Reebok Delta logo
March 13, 2014 Makati City – Today, Reebok, one of the world’s most recognized athletic brands, has unveiled its new brand mark – the Reebok Delta symbol.  The branding change coincides with Reebok’s singular focus on fitness.

The new Reebok Delta symbol represents the positive and transformative change that fitness can have on a person’s life. Through the millennia the delta has been a symbol of change and transformation. The Reebok Delta has three distinct parts each representing the changes - physical, mental and social – that occur when people push themselves beyond their perceived limits and embrace an active and challenging life.

“The new brand mark signals a clear purpose for our brand and it will be a badge for those who pursue a fuller life through fitness.  We believe the benefits of an active life go beyond the physical benefits and impacts your whole self and your relationships with others,” said Matt O’Toole, Reebok Chief Marketing Officer. “It is our symbol of change - an invitation to take part, and to unlock your true potential. It’s not a logo, it’s a symbol…a way of life.”

Say goodbye to the old Reebok logo
Reebok believes there are no shortcuts in fitness and that people have to earn the life that they want to live. Reebok celebrates the people who do the hard things -the things that are the easiest to avoid – and the people that are unafraid to embrace new experiences and challenges in the search for greater rewards. This fight against complacency and mediocrity is the foundation for Reebok’s approach to fitness.

The delta logo - physical, mental and social representations
“At Reebok we know first-hand what kind of impact embracing a fitness lifestyle can have on not only an individual, but those around them – the community as a whole,” said O’Toole. “We’ve witnessed it ourselves at our offices around the world. Our ambition has led to a major change in corporate culture at Reebok headquarters here in Canton, Massachusetts and I couldn’t be more proud of what it’s done for the people here and our company as a whole. We’re tougher, grittier, healthier, more productive…together we’re a better Reebok.  And we know this can happen anywhere with the right attitude and approach to life. This is what our new brand mark stands for.”

The new brand-mark will first appear this month on footwear and apparel across all fitness disciplines supported by Reebok including training, running, outdoor, yoga, dance and aerobics.

You may follow Reebok through any of the following:
http://facebook.com/reebok
http://twitter.com/reebok
http://youtube.com/reebok
http://news.reebok.com/

The Hills Are Alive in Sierra 51050!

*** PRESS RELEASE ***
The Hills Are Alive in Sierra 51050! 
Sigue Correr Runners and Team Intensity won the titles for Team Relay and Duo Half Marathon

February 24, 2014 MANILA, Philippines – It was an awesome morning when running buddies and teams experienced the challenging rolling hills of Tanay, Rizal in the Sierra 51050: Team Comes First last February 23.

Sierra 51050 promotes team spirit and camaraderie among runners and teams 
Running teams, companies and runners from Laguna, Rizal and Manila compete for the title as the Champion for Team Relay and Duo Half Marathon categories. It was a cloudy day with 22°C weather but as early as 1am participants were already in the venue anticipating the race. Sierra 51050 ignites team spirit and encouraged runners to come together in a friendly competition where speed, endurance, tactics and strategy are key elements to win the race.

For the Duo Half Marathon, Team Intensity took the title for Champion (Team Intensity Bravo, 1:35:00) and first place (Team Intensity Alpha, 1:40:00) while Team A followed at second place with a time 1:55:14.

Champion of Duo Half Marathon, Team Intensity Bravo (in the middle middle) with Carlo Catronuevo, Marketing Manager of World Balance and Abet Ocampo, president of Rundezvous, Inc.
1st place of Duo Half Marathon, Team Intensity Alpha
2nd place of Duo Half Marathon, Team A 

For the Team Relay, where there are five (5) members in a team running the 50-km route. Runners A-D run for 20kms each while Runner E runs the very challenging last 10km leg. The Team Relay champion is Sigue Correr Runners A with an official time of 4:02:26. 1st place goes to The PowerPuff Boys with time 4:05:53 while 2nd place goes to Nestle WRC1 with time 4:17:40.

Team Sigue Correr Runners A gets the award, prizes from co-presenters World Balance and Tupperware and optics from Spyder. Flanked by representative from Tupperware, Race Director Alfred Vedarozaga, Rundezvous, Inc. president Abet Ocampo and World Balance marketing manager, Carlo Castronuevo
Abet Ocampo, president of Rundezvous, Inc. presents the Champion trophy for Team Relay 
The Powerpuff Boys gets the 1st place for Team Relay
Team Nestle WRC1 gets the 2nd place for Team Relay, flanked by representative from Tupperware and Allan Enriquez of Running Free Manila
Rundezvous, Inc. aims to promote the concept of team in running, known to be an individual sport.

This is a first concept race for Rundezvous, Inc., known to organize fun runs and runs for a cause. In partnership with Running Atom and Running Free Manila, co-presented by World Balance and Tupperware Brands, the race started and ended in Sierra Madre Hotel & Resort. Sierra 51050 would like to thank their official timekeeper is Suunto, official photographers Running Photographers, official eyewear Spyder, healthcare partner Pascual Laboratories, registration partner SecondWind Running Specialty Store, refreshment partner Creamline, natural therapy treatment from SensaCare, special thanks to Team USB and Team six:30. Organizers would like to thank the Tanay Local Government Unit for securing the safety and protection of the participants in the race.