Spartan Trailfecta 2023 Race Review: Cruising La Union’s Trail with Merrell Nova 3

Posted On October 9, 2023

BACNOTAN, LA UNION- Spartan Philippines hosted the “ Merrell Spartan Trailfecta Weekend” last September 30 and October 1.  The Trailfecta comprises three trail races: a 10 K trail, a half marathon trail, and a 50K ultra, and a Hurricane Heat 12 Hours. 

Hundreds of trail runners and obstacle racers flocked to this serene town in Northern Luzon for some outdoor bliss. Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University- North La Union Campus served as the main grounds for the event. 

We were invited by the guys from Merrell PH to join the 10K race and test out their latest trail running/ hiking shoe- the Merrell Nova 3. Here’s how the race went and how the shoe performed on the trails of Bacnotan. 

Starting Line and University Grounds

The 10K run started at 9:00 P.M. sharp, with the first wave being all male, followed by female trail runners for the second wave. The first part of the race followed about a kilometer road route encompassing a section of the university grounds.  

At Kilometer Two, the route then took the trail runners to farmland, where the locals graze their animals. The locals were exceptionally welcoming and greeted the runners cheerfully. Some of the children even asked for high fives. 

Traffic at the Trails

Another kilometer after that, we arrived at the first uphill section of the course. There’s a bit of traffic at the foot of the hill since it’s a single-track section. The ground was a bit muddy and slippery. Fortunately, the Nova 3’s lugs were up to the challenge. 

From there, it was a gradual ascent and descent until we arrived at one of Bacnotan’s barangays, where the aid station was placed. The marshals offered drinking water, and you could also ask them to splash you with water, as some runners did. 

Gorgeous Scenery

Then, another ascent leads to a picturesque view of a small stream. It’s one of the most captivating parts of the 12K route. The route then took us to a forested area riddled with challenging up and down hills. 

That weather might not be too humid, but you’ll easily sweat a lot. After all, you’re running later from morning to noon when the sun is already high. 

Trail Surprise

Along the way, we went through several small creek crossings with sandy beds and muddy banks. The Nova 3’s GoreTex features shined during sections since you won’t have to worry about the water getting in your shoe as you cross the water. One of the things trail runners should avoid during races is to get blisters since they could be pretty painful. 

On the flip side, one of the things that I wish that the Nova 3 has is a reliable heel lock. When you step on uneven terrain, the shoe sometimes slips out of position, especially in the heel area. 

Back to the race, we also stumbled on a makeshift hut along the route. It turns out it was meant as a place to celebrate one of the local kid’s birthdays. You never know what surprises await you on the trail! 

Towards the Finish Line

After another assault and downhill, we reached the second aid station. Then, the route took us back to the section of the 1st kilometer of the trace, retracing back to the starting line. However, the path veered off and took us to another round of ascents and descents snaking around the DMMU campus.

The last section of the race saw the runners running through the campus’ track oval—finally, the obligatory Spartan fire (in this case, wood) jump. You then get greeted by the Spartan Trail service crew, who hands you a medal, and some needed cold bottled water. 

After crossing the finish line, many 10K trail runners noticed that the course was 2 or 3 kilometers longer than it should be. You could say you get more than what you paid in the Trailfecta!

As for the Merrell Nova 3, the shoe performed well through the slightly technical course. Given that it’s not a bonafide trail runner shoe, it still was the perfect companion for a short-distance trail race. 

Overall, I enjoyed the race. It was hot, but the warm smiles from the locals and fellow trail runners were refreshing. It’s a memorable experience running one of the newer trails in the north. 

##Image Credit for Featured Photo goes to Spartan Race Philippines