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.

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.

Photo Talks - Condura Run with a friend

Photos courtesy of high school batchmate and friend Erlito!

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!