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Running enthusiasts, on the starting line! |
The last time this happened was in 2008. It's one of the biggest runs in the Philippines that features 5k, 10k and 21k races which gave away prizes and surprises too. This year, on August 17 specifically... they are bringing to you the Sofitel Manila Half Marathon 2014 once again. Proceeds of this event will go to the care of street children of Manila through Virlanie Foundation. It's not just going to be a plain run and will become something that could help the plight of these kids to keep them in school, provide shelter or just overall help them go through life easy.
One of the leading run organizers in the country Coach Rio Dela Cruz of Runrio says "By organizing the Sofitel Manila Half Marathon, we hope to one day become one of the world's most popular running event attracting both amateur and professional runners from all over the world to compete in Manila. This marathon is dedicated to the children of Virlanie Foundation with the objective of contributing to a better future for the children of Manila". I've also seen some of the other things Coach Rio did before and a lot of people benefited from it. This is something different because I feel he's really doing it for the kids. Aside from the health benefits of the activity, people would be able to make a difference on the kids lives. That alone is something that could surely change them, to make them better members of the society.
Oh and they're keeping it a little green this time because runners are all advised to bring their own water bottles to be used on refilling stations throughout the race. They will not use paper or plastic cups because we've all seen what happened on races that had that all on the street right?!
Registration for this race will start on June 27. Just go to Toby’s MOA, Toby’s SM North in The Block and also in Move on 30th Street in BGC. Before you decide on doing this, please checkout www.runrio.com for complete details of the race. Fees are Php 750 for the 5k, Php 850 for the 10k, and PHP 950 for the 21k. Every registered racer will receive the usual race bib, singlet, finisher loot bag and drinks so you won't get dehydrated. For the 21km runners, they will receive their own finishers medal and shirt. Isn't that neat?
The Sofitel Manila Half Marathon is also brought to you by Gatorade, Gold’s Gym, DOCOMO, StarXpo, DOLE, Delsan Office Systems,Canon Fashion Tailoring,10 Inch Lights and sounds, Dowi Hosiery, Delizio Fine Foods, Diversey, MJ Global, M Plus, Timex, Premier water and Nizoral. This also includes their media partners ANC, Business World, Fox International Channels, Manila Bulletin, Philippine Daily Inquirer and Radio High (where you'll probably see this advertised). For more information about the event, you can also check out the event page on Facebook here "The Sofitel Manila Half Marathon" or you can call (02)7031736 or (02)4634814 or email them at feedback@runrio.com.
I'll try and see if I can run on that day, even for fun! :)
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