Missing CSM 2012

In my more than four years of running experience, my Condura races were the highlights.

Condura Run 2009 was my first half marathon (2:20+).

showing my first half marathon medal

at BGC nearing the finish line of my first half marathon

running with erlito, my high school classmate

Condura Skyway Marathon 2010 was my first full marathon (5:23+), while Swthrt  did her first half marathon running solo. 

right after crossing the finish line of my first full marathon

with my two running idols Vener and Jonel

And In 2011, Team JRunning  finished together, it was our second marathon.

In this year’s edition, we will be missing CSM. In as much as we love to run this great event, specially traversing the skyway, factors on place and time of the event made us decide not to register. Anyway, we wish all the runners a safe and enjoyable run as we always have in the past!

Go Runners! Realize your dreams… run the marathon! 

Team JRunning CSM 2011 Recap

The Condura Run now known as the Condura Skyway Marathon has once again set the bar of standard for marathon races in the country during the recently concluded CSM 2011. There is no doubt that it will attain its vision of becoming a premiere marathon event in the Asia Pacific Region by 2012. To be part of this event is something to be proud of and will always be cherished. The best way to experience it to the max is to run the full 42.195K distance. This year Swthrt and I ran side by side, our second marathon together.

The early gun start of 3:30am must have added some pressure as we have to wake up very early. We arrived at the starting venue excited, tensed and with the hope of... just to finish the race (JFR). The place was already filled with 42k runners doing their stretching and warm-up run. Running groups were very obvious in their uniform singlet or tri-suit. We met up with friends who will also join the race and bid each other good luck. As the time hit 3:30am the runners were off to a good start. Swthrt and I tried to stick to our agreed pace and time goals per 10K. Running along Buendia corner Ayala was great with cheers from friends Bards,Vicky, Rene, and Vener plus the marshals along Buendia Avenue.

photos courtesy of Vener, Run Unlimited

We were doing well all the way to skyway ramp. The Skyway was a treat for runners as they can run free, without any motorist honking their horns held in road intersections. Even though I have run this route last year, it still excites me as I was running this time with Swthrt. The Skyway itself posed a great challenge to runners with its elevation going up and down at certain areas, like the EDSA portion and near the Sucat area. The thrill rose up as we shared the road with the 21K runners in some parts of the route. As expected, there were ample supplies of hydration. Only though, I don’t like the carbonated sports drink. As we continue our run along Skyway, there were cheers and encouragements from other runners we run side by side or met on the opposite direction. All is well until we reached KM30 on our way back to BHS wherein I started to feel cramps on my both calf. This started my agony, as we continued to run, the pain gets stronger. It’s Wall time! Walk breaks became longer than runs. Swthrt and I would jokingly say that we have to run and run to avoid being swept because there was a cut-off time given for runners along Skyway. Upon reaching down Buendia, loud cheers from Takbo.ph volunteers echoed and give the needed boost for the runners. Jinoe and other members also took photos of runners. It was a big help that I was able to apply liniment on my calf at their aid station. But the relief did not last long. I continued to drag Swthrt whom at this point can still run some more even with pain. The last challenge that we have to conquer was the Kalayaan flyover where the KM40 marker was located on top of it. It was at this point that I was contemplating of giving up. Lester and Cathy who caught up with us encouraged us to run. But even with the push I could not even run more than 2 meters. Walk was the only option. If not for Swthrt whom I knew was quite disappointed with our run (hope not so much with me) I would have opted to DNF. The phrase “don’t run alone” in the Team Hoyt film (i saw a few weeks before the race) really make some sense. We saw other runners in groups or partners encouraging one another to finish the race. As we make the right turn and having the finish line in view gave us a sigh of relief that it will only be a few minutes before it’s over. Again the cheers from more running groups as we approach the fine line gave the final boost for us. I tried to run but to no avail. The pain was unbearable. We cross the line in 6:03:+.

It was hard but rewarding to know that we have survived it. Though we may not got a PR, it was a humbling experience. We hope to gain wisdom from that experience and be a better runner next time.

Photo Talks - all set for CSM 2011

Condura Runners e-handbook

click image

Getting inspired before a marathon

Hearing good motivational speakers in a conference would always get you inspired. During the GIS Users Conference that our agency participated in as an institutional partner, I got a chance to listen to one of the guest speaker whose topic was “Dreaming Big”. It was a motivational topic that aims to inspire GIS practitioners to explore on the vast array of GIS applications and the great potential that system and technology offers in improving life. Though it was not the first time that I heard of such kind of talk, it caught my attention as the speaker, Mr. Alex Araneta, started to relate it to running. He showed a familiar video of a father and son team, the Team Hoyt, who together finished marathons, ultra-marathons, ironman and more. They have accomplished it in a not so ordinary way. The father has to push his son, a quadriplegic, in a special wheelchair. There were three lines that capture the essence of the video.

The Dick (father) is the body
The Rick (son) is the heart
Do not run alone!

And towards the end of his talk, he shared that he together with his wife have ran and finished their first full marathon in February 2010 during the Hong Kong Marathon. We can dream big and be able to realize it not only alone but with other people who have one goal and one vision that we have. Let us not run alone! Run with our loved ones, friends and other runners who have the same passion in running as we have. Swthrt and I will be running at the Condura Skyway Marathon on Feb 6 2011! See you there!

Running Nose

With just a week to go before the Condura Skyway Marathon, I’m here teary-eyed due to running nose. Yes, my nose took off ahead of me. For the past two days I have been video documenting a conference of GIS (Geographic Information System) users not only in the Philippines but with the countries in the Asia Pacific. It was held at EDSA Shangrila with about 800 stakeholders. I must have acquired those colds viruses, or the cold temperature at the session hall and at the exhibit area of the conference and fatigue must have lowered my body immune system. Anyway, I just hope and pray that this cold would not last long.

Registration for the Condura Skyway Marathon 2011 is still open

The annual Condura race is on! Join the country´s premiere marathon to be held on February 6, 2011 and feel the thrill of running on the Skyway! Register for 3k, 5k, 10k, 16k, 21k or 42k.

So what´s in store for you when you join the Condura Skyway Marathon?

Experience a world-class marathon with the use of D-Tag Timing System which accurately counts your time as you cross the finish line.

Sport that stylish and trendy runner look! Wear the dri-fit technical shirt with the event logo designed by Team Manila.

Everybody´s a winner! If you are a finisher, you will automatically receive a medal and be reminded of your achievement and your memorable participation in the event.

Last but not the least; aside from having lots of fun and excitement, you´ll also be making a contribution in the protection of dolphins of Bohol. P50.00 of the registration fee that you will pay will go to this advocacy.

For more details, visit www.conduraskywaymarathon.com

What are you waiting for? Don´t miss this chance to participate in a world-class and noble running event of the year! Hurry and go to Greenbelt 3 now before the slots run out!

Registration is open until January 31, 2011.

Condura Skyway Marathon Bloggers' Night

One of the perks of being a runner blogger is that you get invites to press conferences, test runs, product launch and more. Last December 15, Condura Skyway Marathon Secretariat headed by Mr. Ton Concepcion organized a bloggers' night for the launching of the Condura Run 2011 which would now be known as the Condura Skyway Marathon 2011. The re-branding carries the vision of becoming the premiere marathon event in the Asia-Pacific Region by 2012 and continues its advocacy of protecting the environment especially the marine ecosystem. Having helped foundations and organizations protecting the Tubataha Reef, Whale sharks of Donsol, Sorsogon, and the Dolphins of Bohol, next year’s beneficiary will again be the dolphins of Bohol. The event aims to raise funds for the protection of dolphins of Baclayon Bohol through scientific research and promotion of eco-tourism and creation of livelihood opportunities. This is in partnership with Ayala Foundation, Inc.

After the briefing on what to expect of the CSM 2011 edition which includes new race routes, new distance category (16K), more freebies, the bloggers got to experience the fast and easy e-registration at the Greenbelt 3, Makati City.

Photos by Kulit on the Run, Vima

For registration details visit www.conduraskywaymarathon.com.

Thank you Condura for the great time!

Reasons to join Condura Skyway Marathon

There can be 101 reasons why run the Condura Run which will now be known as the Condura Skyway Marathon. The CSM has been a significant event in my running experience. The 2009 Run for the Whale Sharks was my first 21K race while the 2010 Run for the Dolphins was my first full 42K marathon race. Next year’s edition will surely be another memorable race because I will be running the full marathon again with Swthrt.

So what are you waiting for! Register now and have an experience of the premiere running event in the Philippines

The Condura Skyway Marathon

Sunday, February 6, 2011

10km, 16km and 21km : Ayala Triangle Start and Finish at Bonifacio Global City

3km, 5km and 42k : Bonifacio Global City Start and Finish

For More details visit www.condurarun.com

Condura’s Top 12 Reasons to Join the Condura Skyway Marathon

1. RUN FOR THE DOLPHINS
A guaranteed donation of P50 pesos per runner plus any surplus from the run shall help protect the Dolphins of Baclayon, Bohol – the Dolphin capital of the Philippines.

2. EVERY RUNNER GETS A MEDAL
Whether you are a fun run newbie or a seasoned marathoner, conquering your chosen distance makes you a winner in our book – you deserve a medal whichever distance you run!

3. SPECIAL EDITION DOLPHIN SHIRT
All participants will receive a dri-fit type technical shirt with event logo designed by Team Manila. Perfect for wicking off the Sunday morning sweat!

4. D-TAG TECHNOLOGY
This is the timing system used by top marathons around the world including the New York City marathon. We will be using the D-TAGS for all race categories for fast and accurate recording of your finishing time.

5. BREAKTHROUGH e-REG SYSTEM
Registration is now more convenient and accurate with our proprietary e-REG system. Whether you are paying cash or through credit card, you can now register from any computer anytime and anywhere.

6. 16K NEW RACE CATEGORY
Wanting to graduate from your regular 10k but not so sure if you're ready for a 21k half-marathon? The 16k category should be just right for you. We are introducing this race category due to insistent public demand.

7. FIRST 10K ON THE SKYWAY
Last year, only the runners of the 21k and 42k distances were able to run the Skyway. This time, the 10k and 16k runners will get to experience the thrill of running on the Skyway on a point to point route starting at Ayala triangle and ending at the Bonifacio Global City.

8. NEW 21K ROUTE
Our first point-to-point half marathon, starting at Ayala triangle and ending at the Bonifacio Global City will enable you to run more of the Skyway!

9. RUN THE NEW EXTENDED SKYWAY!
The Skyway just got extended and now goes out all the way to Sukat. Every time a portion of the Skyway is completed, the full Marathon extends up to the farthest point – and back!

10. FUN ROUTE FOR THE 3K AND 5K RUNNERS AROUND BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY
The Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is one of the most friendly running routes in the metro; making it a favorite venue for running events. However, we changed last year's route for both the 3k and 5k categories to make it challenging yet enjoyable for all participants.

11. 2 STARTS, 1 FINISH
Last year we had one starting point and two finish lines. This time it is the other way around! This was done so that more runners can run the Skyway as well as to manage congestion from both runners and vehicular traffic. Our goal is to give runners the best running experience possible.

12. LOTS OF FREEBIES AND GIVEAWAYS!
We have a lot of treats from our sponsors to help you celebrate your post race victory.

Hail to my first 42K medal

Today, the Condura 42K finisher’s medal has just arrived! Yes, I was one of those runners who have reached the finish line (in 5:32) when the medals ran out of stock. But the overwhelming joy in me finally overshadowed all my frustrations. Don’t get me wrong, I still wanted a medal. Last Tuesday, I emailed the secretariat of Condura to add me in their list of runners who have not received a medal yet. After two days, the package finally arrived in our office.

To the delight of my officemates, we did some photo ops.


and with George, a 12-time marathoner

and Josiah, future marathoner, anak ni bro j

I would like to thank the Condura Secretariat for their quick response.

Thank you very much to Patrick and Ton Concepcion for the wonderful experience of running the Skyway. Rest assured that I will continue to support the Condura Run and its advocacy in their future endeavor.

Lessons learned from my first full marathon

Taking on the challenge of running a marathon is really, really tough. After a gradual mileage build-up for two year s, I felt it’s about time to run the full marathon. I am making this post not to justify the outcome of my performance but rather to gain insights and see areas of improvements for me to become a better runner.

Pre race
Great physical challenges require great physical preparations. In the 2010 Condura Run, though I may not have a rigid training program, Swthrt and I regularly run longer on weekends and would try very hard to squeeze in weekday training whenever possible. Our usual goal for our weekend runs would be 10-15K or we would sometimes aim for one hour to a maximum of two hours run. These may have been a factor since my legs were not accustomed to run more than three hours. I got two long runs that last for four hours that made me confident, but it would have been better if I have more long distance runs. As they say, Consistency in training is the key to a better performance. The best way to strengthen our leg muscles is to run, run and run. Another issue with regard to physical preparation is the body weight. I have read once that there is an equivalent reduction in time for every lbs lost in the body weight of a runner. I just don’t remember the proportion. After losing weight from 198 lbs to 180lbs, my body weight plateaud at this level. 180 lbs for a 5 feet seven frame was still way above my BMI. There could be two ways to improve on this. One is to have a strict diet and the other one is to increase on training in terms of mileage, intensity or incorporate cross training program.
With regard to mental preparedness, I think it is one’s will and determination that matters most. If I may quote a line from the movie Spirit of the Marathon, “sometimes what challenges us the most, defines us. The question of whether or not I will continue and finish the race may not come across my mind as a newbie marathoner. The last 10K of the full marathon really defines whether I will continue the race or not. All factors such as fatigue, heat exhaustion, and hunger would lean towards quitting and only great determination and trust in God, who has given me the ability to run this far pushed me through. On the practical side, watching motivational movies on running such as Spirit of the Marathon, reading success stories of first time marathoners, the encouragements of friends and family, and the 100% support of Swthrt helped me in my mental preparation.

Race Day
A good game plan plays an important factor on race day. Several days before the race, I have layout a plan on how I will run my first marathon. I had my target time consisting of several options.

5:00 target – aiming high, a “dream target”
5:15 target – a tough challenge considering the type of course
5:30 target- still tough but doable


I even had my splits time tables for all these target options.

But one big issue here is that, did I follow the game plan? The answer is “NO”. Though I am very much happy with my finish time, it could have been better if I stick to my plan. It could have made the difference. My actual split time was



I was too fast on my first 30K. Anyway, there is still a room for improvement. I have to learn how to distribute my energy to last the whole 42K course. But for now let me savor the joy of finishing a marathon.

right after finishing the race ( photo by Xty)

with Vener and Jonel

To all my friends who have made my dream of running the marathon a reality – Thank you very much for the support and encouragement.

To all the runners who greeted me before and after the race, and to those who ran with me even only in some portions of the course – Thank you for keeping me sane, hehehe

To my personal running coach at the office, George – Maraming Salamat Guru George for introducing me to the sport of running.

To our Hosanna family who prayed that we may have a safe and enjoyable race- Maraming Salamat!

To the organizer of the Condura Run 2010 – Thank you for making my first marathon race a reality. Congratulations and more power to you!

A Run in the Sky by Swthrt

“We never know how high we are till we are called to rise; and then, if we are true to plan, our statures touch the skies.” – Emily Dickinson


The last Condura 21K run was my first long run without my “dream-chaser” (word borrowed from TBR) by my side. I know that this is something cheesy, but BroJ is my personal coach, my motivator and my “pusher” with regards to running. And when he decided to try his first full marathon on this year’s Condura, I was left with the decision to run without him or never run at all. But love for running prevailed. I decided to run by myself. I was able to convince one of my office associates to run with me. And we did run together from starting line up to ramp of Skyway. But later, she started to slow down. I tried to wait for her but eventually she let go of me. Then I have to run by myself. I have to conquer my fears!

Running in the Skyway was something new to me. I have ran the McKinley Hills several times, same with Kalayaan Flyover. Both are very challenging, but I was not sure what to expect in Skyway… Yes, of course, I have heard a lot of stories from previous Condura Run. But to have a personal feel and experience about is something I’m not sure whether I will enjoy or condemn it. Along Skyway, I started to run at an easy relaxed pace, too cautious not to bonk. I guess that was when I missed the “pushing” of my “coach”. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the sight of early morning sunrise. I have to enjoy the slopes. I enjoyed waving to all the returning runners whom I know, in the other side of the road. I was even thrilled to see our big man in the company, FZAyala, running in the opposite direction. I also enjoyed looking down at EDSA, trying to calculate how far more was the Honda Makati (one of our branches). I was also delighted to see the “shower station” provided by Manila Water but refused to get wet for the fear that I might get blisters and chaffing. In no time at all, (at least, I’ve never noticed the distance), I was already at the 21K turning point. The 1st half of the race was just completed!

And here came the challenge! The thought of having to run another 10K+ going back was something to deal with. But I have resolved to finish strong. I have to embrace each moment. I started to feel the stiffness of my calves and legs. But the thought of backing out never dawned on me. Good people from Takbo.ph and Reinier Pacific Aid Station were giving spray liniment. That was a blessing! Plus, the banana given by the girls and the encouragement from Mr. Amado and Jinoe all helped. While I was threading the stretch of Buendia, I was already contemplating on the challenge of going back to Kalayaan Flyover. Based on my previous races, returns via this hilly route were really tough. And indeed, that was tough. I have to run in small steps, and walked several times. But I was already looking forward to the finish line which was around 1K to go. And those pains and difficulties became surmountable. What mattered to me at those moments was the thought of completing my goal. And the experience was made even wonderful after receiving my medal! This was something I offered up to God for His Glory. Since all of my races are dedicated to Him!

Afterwards, I waited for my other officemates and eventually waited for BroJ to witness his first Full Marathon Finish! Thank you for the inspiration!

The story of my first marathon: Condura Run 2010

Our day started at 2:00am. Swthrt and I had a pouch of instant oat meal and soft boiled egg (actually intended to be hard boiled, he he he) for breakfast. We then prepared our hydration gears(vitwater endurance and GU gels) and the food we prepared for my post race meal. This was the first time that we have prepared foods such as bananas, pocarri sweat, vitwater, nature valley energy bar for a post race meal. Before we left our home, we had a short prayer for protection and the strength from our Lord Jesus Christ.

We arrived at the venue at around 3:00am and after a brief parking, we immediately had our warm-up run and stretching. We met friends who gave encouragements for they knew this was my marathon debut. After having the power kiss from Swthrt (she ran the half marathon) I checked in as soon as I heard the announcement for the 42k runners to check in. At the starting area, more friends have given their encouragements. I also met runners from Vigan City, Ilocos Sur who was introduced to me by my officemate George. Soon after the opening ceremony and fireworks display, we were off to a good started.

My target time for this race was 5 hours and 30 minutes. The truth was, I had other hidden targets such as best time of 5:15 and a dream target of 5:00. I even scheduled my lap time per 10 km. I had a good start and have keep in mind not to be carried away by the fast runners. I kept on echoing in my mind that I have to run this on my own pace. Going to Bayani Road was no problem as I was familiar with the area. I reached 10K mark at 1:08. This was faster than my target time and so I have to slow down. For the next 10k, I was enjoying my run and had to remind myself not go too fast. When I reached the 21K marker it was 2:29.07. The run at the Skyway was a different experience. Half of the road was all for the runners. You just have to enjoy the moment. When I saw the next kilometre marker which is 25K, I knew the challenge will be up ahead. I had only run twice in my training the distance over 25K. As I made my turn around at the Bicutan Skyway exit, I was beginning to feel tightness with my leg muscles. I had to take a walk every time I felt my muscle was starting to cramp. The greatest challenge was the Heartbreak Hill of Skyway which was along the NAIA 3 interchange. I was planning to take it running with short strides at slow pace but like a car with low power engine, I cranked up and had to run-walk alternately. As I made my way back to Skyway heading for Buendia, I was able to hold my sanity by following the pace of a group of runners in Timex Ironman singlets as they run-walk the remaining part of the course. Upon reaching the Takbo.ph and Rienier Pacific Aid Station, I was graciously handed a banana by a young child and was given a liniment spray and massage by mckoy of Takbo.ph. The cheers and encouragements of the volunteers in this station really kept us runners going. I continued to follow the group of runners up until Makati Ave. I reached Km35 at 4:26.33, and the last big challenge of the course is the Kalayaan Flyover squeezing all the strength left in me. When I reached Fort Bonifacio, I was already struggling with the heat and the pain on my legs. I was praying that God would sustain my energy. My fear then was I would have a muscle cramp that would really prevent me from running or even just walking. So I have to walk every time I felt my legs are tightening up. I picked on another runner to keep pace. When i saw the marker that has the last 2 km sign, I said to myself, “Kaya mo yan, malapit na!” And I did it over and over. And it was the longest 2km of my life. And when I reached the final kilometre mark, I looked at my watch and saw that it was 5:22.26. And to hit my target I needed to run it within 8 min or faster. With all that I have gone through, there is no way that I can run that fast. As I made my turn at 5th Avenue I made the final push until the finish line. And there’s no better way to finish it than by seeing Swthrt waiting at the finish line. I did it in 5:32:12!

For all that I have experienced throughout this race, I thanked God for the strength He gave me to finish the race! To God be the glory!

My Condura 42k Experience

This year’s edition of the Condura played a significant role in my running experiences. I took on the challenge of running my first full marathon. Preparations have been tediously made physically and mentally. Swthrt and I arrived at the venue at around 3:00am and did warm up run around BHS, did some stretches and proceeded to check-in for what I considered… the race of my life. The race started at 4:00am and the rest was history. It was a great experience for me. My target time was 5:30. It was painful but fulfilling as I crossed that finish line in 5:32.

Congratulations to Condura brothers, Patrick and Ton Concepcion!

More stories to come as I recover…

Jitters

It will only be a matter of days and the Condura2010 will be hosting many first time marathoners in the country including myself. At this stage, many of us may feel anxious, excited, tensed, afraid or mixed feelings. As I told Swthrt, I have never felt this way since my very first road race (my first 5K at Mizuno Run 2 years ago). I just pray and hope that this feeling of uncertainty, excitement and whatever will do me good on my first step to my first full marathon race. In line with this, let me share you this insight from Sports Spectrum Devotional. The World Series is like the Condura 42K (or your first 5K, 10K, 21K). All the people you know are keeping their eyes on you. Here it is,


“He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.”
Psalm 40:3

BIG LEAGUE JITTERS

It’s the World Series—the epitome of the “best” in baseball. You are a key pitcher in your team’s lineup. All eyes are on you. It’s a situation that just begs for your nerves to take control. How do you get rid of those big league jitters? If you are Orel Hershiser in the 1988 World Series, you sing hymns.

Not exactly your normal sight in a major-league stadium. That’s what calmed Hershiser down, though, singing praise to his Lord. We all have what we consider “big league jitters” now and again. What calms you down in your times of stress? Maybe you run, or read the Bible. I know when I get to the point of “What now?” I take a moment and just pray. If I’m scared, I can feel my fear melt away. If I’m worried, suddenly the problem doesn’t seem as bad. It’s just the simple fact of knowing that God is there and listening to me—no matter what I’m going through. I am not alone—and neither are you! —Natalie Creech

Run for the Dolphins

The Condura Run for the Whale Sharks was my first 21k race. It was a race I will never forget. This year’s edition of the Condura Run which will be for the Dolphins will be another first for me. Yes! I will be running my first full marathon this February. Let’s go the distance! See you there!

I’ve got my Milo today… Oh what a day! Milo everyday…..

I just received from my officemate and fellow runner Tolits my race packet for the 33rd National Milo Marathon Manila Elimination which will be held on July 5, 2009. I feel excited because this will be my second time to join a half-marathon, and at the same time nervous because I know that Milo has a cut-off time for every race category. I just hope that I will be able to finish within the allotted cut-off time. I suppose that this event builds excitement to other runners too who wanted to run longer distances but are not yet ready for the full marathon. I heard that this will be the first time that a 21K category will be held for the Milo Marathon Manila elimination.

My first 21K race at the Condura Run ’09 was a pleasant experience. It also gave me confidence that I can finish a half marathon. I was supposed to have my 2nd half marathon at the Botak Paa-tibayan but I missed it because of field work assignment. This time I hope to do better. Now, does anybody know the race route?

Photo Talks - Condura Run with a friend

Photos courtesy of high school batchmate and friend Erlito!

Condura Run 09 Race Results

http://www.condurarun.com/results.html

My official record:

Place: 896

Race No.: 250

Name: Joseph Estrella

Time: 2:25:51

Pace 6:57

photo by Mark Parco

total number of 21k runners: 1317

My Condura 21K Race

The Butanding Parade

It was a clear indication that running has now become so popular as the highly anticipated Condura Race unfolds yesterday. Thousands of runners took the challenge of testing their limit in the 21K half marathon race. I heard that many of them were running this distance for the first time. I am one of them who tried for the very first time. I started running last May 2008 and have ran several 5K, 10K and 15K races and have thought that it’s about time to try the longer distances.

Swthrt, who opted not to run 5K where she was registered because of pain in the shin and I arrived at Fort Bonifacio by 5:00 am. As soon as we found a spot to park our car, I immediately proceeded to do a warm-up run which did not last long as I heard the announcement that the 21K runners are called to check-in. I was able to squeeze in some stretching inside the corral.

The gun was fired on time and the 21K runners were off. I was actually feeling strong and was quite focused on my plan for the race. I was setting a personal goal of 2:15:00 to 2:20:00 on this race. Upon reaching the Kalayaan flyover I saw Erlito, my classmates in high school, I decided to run and keep paced with him. We ran at a comfortable pace where we can have a few chat. We reached kilometer 5 in 34:41. We have maintained this pace all the way to Quirino Highway approaching the Skyway ramp. The water station at this point was also distributing Sports Beans from Candy Corner and I was able to grab a couple of bags. As we begun our approach to the Skyway ramp we already saw the escort vehicle of the lead pack on their way back. Being able to run at the Skyway was an experience to be remembered. Erlito was able to bring a camera and we had a few shots for souvenirs. We also got a photo shot from Jinoe of Takbo.ph. We continued our run and begun to saw familiar faces of runners/bloggers already on their way back. I begun to shout out their names to cheer on them and give encouragement. It was also a way of keeping myself sane on “why am I doing this?”, running 21 kilometers, hahaha. Nearing the turn around point for us was sight to behold. We were also welcomed by a shower station from the water truck stationed at the Skyway. They were also handing out sponges soaked in cold water to freshen up the runners from the heat of the sun. As we started to make our way back I picked up on my pace. Slowly I left Erlito behind as he opted to keep his pace and not to be burned out. Along Buendia Avenue, I got my second wind and continued on, I did not even notice that I already crossed the Ayala intersection. I slowed down a bit as I crossed Makati Ave to prepare for the final approach to Kalayaan flyover. Upon managing the flyover, I knew it will only be a matter of few kilometers to the finish and it will be over. As I made a turn left at Serendra I saw IAAF Level IV Coach Espejo (Team Baldrunner) cheering on and shouting last 400 meters. It was music to my ears. I also saw Coach Salazar and Gigi on the final turn to the finish line. Swthrt was cheering on in front of Honda as I make the final sprint to the finish line. My unofficial finishing time was 2:20:+. I was able to hit my goal and was very happy about it! I am beginning to love the distance. I praise and thank the Lord for this achievement. To God be the glory!

I would also like to thank all the people who have supported me, my officemates and to my church-mates who prayed for me to have the strength and a safe run. And to Swthrt who was always there for me, I love you Swthrt!

with Erlito, George( Fuerza Armada), Chito (Sundaywarrior)

with Rocelle (Running Diva), Christ and Vener(Run unlimited)

Swthrt with T2 Runners

Congratulations Ton and Patrick Concepcion for the Great Condura Run!