Seven things that made Run Fest 2015 special

The finish line is just the beginning of a whole new race.

Its one of the saying (more of a mantra) that runners live by and a message that resounded most to the thousands of runners who participated on the Takbo.ph’s Run Fest 2015 fun run last July 12 at the Bonifacio Global City. Days before the event, several weather forecasts hinted possible rains, but that did not stop those who knew in their “soles” that this is an event not to be missed.

Below are some of the best parts of the race that made it  a unique running experience:

#7 These running waiters from Sofitel

(Photo Credit: Pol Nico John Tolentino)

At first I thought this guys were part of the catering crew or works at a nearby resto, but then again they have running bibs. Turned out that they are from the Sofitel running team and actually raced the 5K event. And here is the catch they ran while carrying their trays. Turns out that they are doing it to celebrate the French Month- bon apetite! 

#6 Bananas and plenty of hydration

I was about 2-kilometers in the race and already noticed a hydration station, and there were plenty of them around the course (around ten, if I am not mistaken). Each station offered water, sports drink or both. Somewhere around the 14K mark, a table offering bananas and somehow I feel like one of the minions and all I could think of at that moment was- BA-BA-BA–BA-BA-NA-NA.

#5 The urban jungle that is Bonifacio Global City

(Photo credit: Manila Water)

BGC may be one of the top choices for race organizers to held their running events, but the course remains relevant. There are a lot of ascents and descents all throughout the race. The elevation brought by the Kalayaan Flyover and the hilly parts of McKinley makes it a bit harder than that of races conducted in the Mall of Asia and CCP-Roxas Blvd. Kinda nostalgic of a trail run, but with asphalt or concrete roads.

#4 Inspirational quotes from the markers

(I saw this quote in one of the markers)

The Run Fest 2015 has almost every kilometer marked reminding the runners of their current distance and how much more they need to work for. Depending on a runner, this could work either negatively or positively. Say if you are just a third of the way, you may feel that your effort is inadequate. But if you see that you are just a kilometer away from the finish line, it can push you to just push a little harder. Luckily, each sign has its unique quote that simply makes you ponder and strengthen your resolve to finish the event in running colors.

#3 Helpful marshals along the course

(Photo credit: LeadPack organizers)

The 21K race pretty much covered some of the busiest streets in Taguig and Makati and although it was early morning on a Sunday, managing traffic was still challenging. Luckily, many helpful marshals and traffic enforcers were there to assist the runners as we cross each intersection. It was also inspiring and a moral booster when they cheer you on and remind you that you can still go on. The words “go, runners” may be a bit cliche, but it somehow gets you moving.

#2 Being able to help kids from Make a Wish Foundation

After the 5K, 10K and 21K distances were over, kids from the Wish Foundation were able to walk about 500 meters with some of their donors. Companies and individuals were able to show to these children that they are loved and their simple wishes can become a reality. Part of your registration fee for the Run Fest 2015 were donated to help these children live better lives.

#1 The running community

For eight years, Takbo.ph has been one of the leading sources for runners to know upcoming events, to register on these races, to connect with the running community and gather information on any topic related to running. What started out as a husband and wife’s passion for running developed into a community whose passion is to pursue the elusive finish line.

Below is a compilation of social media posts on what people are saying about Takbo.ph Run Fest 2015:

(The race is given to those who endure)

(Takbo.ph Run Fest is turning out to be a tradition for this guy)

(One giant leap for a group selfie)