Kenny’s Open Urbanite – An Amazing Night Race

Did you see that? About 3,000 people running through McKinley Hill.  When I entered the area after our 10K turnaround point, I could see plenty of heads bobbling thru the course and the glow sticks danced along the streets.

So this is how a night race looks like.  I have been thinking of such a race since last year.  When we partnered with Kenny Roger’s to bring a unique experience for runners, the night race was the best thing that came to mind from the PR Agency, Bates141 and with Finishline.  It was patterned to the F1 Night Race which only happens in Singapore.  So why not do that too for runners.  That idea continued to play inside my mind until last Saturday night.

This was my first night race so I dont know what to expect.  Safety was my primary concern.  It was really comforting to see a lot of marshalls deployed.  Key roads were closed for runners and I had a smooth run from start to finish.

However, some water stations were located in a dark areas.  It was frightening to run in a dark area when all of a sudden you will see lady standing in front you. “Sir, tubig.”  Whew…  Bayani road was dark.  If not for the cars stranded in traffic with their headlights on, you will have poor visibility of the road ahead and this will slow you down.

But what I love about the Kenny Roger’s Urbanite run is the festive atmosphere at the race area.  Well lighted.  Very spacious.  Big Tents.  Big stage.  Hyper Music.  Great food from Kenny Roger’s booth.  The finish area was not crowded.  I think this was the best layout I have seen so far that controlled the crowd well.  Uhm.., except for the long line of runners getting their freebies.

To many, it was a new way to spend Saturday night with the family.  To the girls, it was a chance to take picture with Marc and Rovilson.  To a couple, it was a perfect race to make a proposal and say “yes”.  Ehem…

Thank you to everyone who joined the event in support to our chosen beneficiary, Hands On Manila.  Takbo.ph will once again partner with a race to support another organization.  See you at the RotaRun.09 on September 20.

Class Pics

Take 1: The preparation for the Kenny’s Open Urbanite started as early as a week before the race.  We joined the Guerilla Activation organized by Bates141 to promote the event in Makati. Close to 40 runners joined and caught the attention of Makati workers and residents.  It was a fun evening.More photos at Rodel’s Multiply Site.

Take 2: It started with the first carboloading party last March for the Condura Run.  Now, the runners love to get together 2 or 3 days before the race for the carboloading.  This time, they invaded Joey Pepperoni at The Fort for the overflowing serving of pasta.  Visit the forums and the shoutbox to know where the next carboloading party is.  More photos at Pio’s Multiply Site.

Take 3:Of course, the class picture collection is not complete without the class pic on the race day itself. We are happy to see new faces joining us everytime.  More pics from Carlo and at Facebook.

Don’t be shy to join us again next time.