Step-up for a Cause: Swthrt setting a new 10K PR

Swthrt, who is used to run the classic 10K distance, set a new personal record breaking her old 1:10 time during the Takbo Para sa Kalikasan Year 10 at the Quirino Grandstand. This time, she was able to shave off 5 minutes setting a new PR of 1:05:25. We arrived at the Fort at around 5:20 and met Bald Runner, who was there not to run but as a spectator and supporter especially to the Team Bald Runner members. We were joined by Leng, one of Swthrt’s staff at the office.

We immediately had a warm up run and stretching. Afterwards, we proceeded to check-in to our respective coral. The race started a little over than the announced starting time of 6:00 am. The 10K and 5K runners were released simultaneously which made it harder to run fast at the start. There was a good number of participants considering that it was preceded by a Saturday Sun-Fest race at Alabang. Swthrt and I had a fast start up until the 5K turn around point at the University Avenue. We were glad to see Bald Runner taking pictures in front of Market Market.

Picture courtesy of Sir Jovie a.k.a. Bald Runner

We reduced speed as we crossed 25th Street as we have to be extra careful of the motorist along this part of the route. They did not actually close this section and only had marshal manning the traffic. We made a steady and comfortable pace, until the turn around point. As we made our way back, we pick up our pace but tiredness begun to set in. I have to constantly ask Swthrt if she wanted water or sport drink I brought along. The heat was Swthrt’s primary opponent in every race we joined. It was a blessing God gave a fine weather that day. After passing the 8K marker at 52:37 we started to gain speed again all the way to the finish.

With IceOne and Lito of NAMRIA Running Club

Over-all, I think it was a well organized race. There was enough water in every hydration station. There was also an orderly distribution of finisher shirts and other freebies. And the best part of all, runners were able to share their resources to the needy patients of the Fe Del Mundo Children’s Hospital.