My Sweet Birthday Wish

"You were God's surprise to us, you are a special gift from above". My Mom always tells me this whenever I question her about why I was born to be like this. I was an unplanned pregnancy. My parents are happy with two children when my mom accidentally got pregnant to me. She never thought she will still have another child but I came, and she was happy that I did.

I am the bully's favorite. Always the subject of ridicule because I was so fat and ugly. And until now I still bring with me the trauma it had caused, but ofcourse I'm trying my best not to. I always want to bring happiness and positivity to everyone and it all started out when I did not pursue my attempt to jump off the hospital window 12 years ago.

Much like how it looked like from the hospital window when I looked down...

At that moment, when I was told I won't live for long because of the complications that Diabetes has caused. I thought to myself, why not end it now? So that I won't have to go through the turmoil of living everyday knowing I'll die soon. So I went up the top floor of the hospital, opened the window and stand in front of it. As I was looking down at the busy street and when I was about to put my right foot forward, a great force stopped me. I instantly pulled my foot back and went down, closed the window and cried. What was I thinking? I don't have the right to take away my own life. Only God can take away what He has given.

Since then I live my everyday as if it was my last. But to my surprise, and even the Doctors cannot even believe it, my two years maximum life expectancy was extended, and my condition has become favorable.

Running for L-O-V-E! ^_^

Running has made a huge impact to my health. I became healthier and happier. Not only I became fitter, I even met great people and great friends along the way.

And now that my big day has come, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to all who has been a huge part of my life. My family for being supportive of me all my life, my elementary, high school and college friends, my friends from my previous work, my teachers who became my good friends, to all the running groups: Team Boring, HOB, Team CB, ChiChem Runners, Team Alpha 1, Team Ungas, Power Puff Boys, Snail Runners Alabang, All the adiNation of Runners Team: Alabang, MOA, Ortigas-Tiendesitas, UP Diliman, Ayala Tri and most especially to my aNR BHS Family (The Storm Chasers) , my Team PDA (Philippine Diabetic Athletes) Family, My TKR Family (Team Kamote Runners), my Chummy Group Family, my runner friends who are close to me: Dennis, Gerald, Shiela, Ate Ceres, Ate Kristel, Kuya Percy, Jixee, Kuya KB, JR, Ate Iris, Soi, Mark, Ate Merlyn, Angela, Kate, Michael, Erald, Sam, Kuye Merl, Kuya Fred, Papa Racs, Ate Amor, Ate Elsa, Ate Peachy, Cheryl etc. and ofcourse, those people who are so special to me: Mam Lot, Marie, Ate Lori, Kuya Bee, Mommy Eve, Ate Che Anne, Francis of Eat Pray Run, Ate Vimz a.k.a. Kulit Runner, Sir Poch and Kuya Daves a.k.a. Barefoot Daves... You don't know how thankful I am that in this lifetime, I get the chance to know you. Thank you for being a part of my sweet life!

The aNR BHS Storm Chasers! I love these guys! ^_^

To the running community who has been so loving and supportive, I owe you so much. I won't be where I am right now if it weren't for your motivation and belief that I can do this. Being a runner is far off what I've thought I would be. To those people who are followers of my blog, thank you so much for taking time in reading my posts. I hope in a way I inspire you and touched you. It's definitely written from my heart.

And in every birthdays, before the celebrant blows the cake, he or she got to make a wish first...

Hmm... What's a good birthday wish?

My wish? None. I am so thankful to God for the sweet life I have I could not ask for anything more, and if this will be my last birthday, I will still be thankful to him for making me experience this wonderful world for a longer time.

My Birthday Prayer

"Father, I thank you for giving me another year to live. Another year of wonderful memories to treasure and remember. I am so blessed for this life I am living. I may not have all the things that my heart desires but I can't afford to wish for more. I know what I have right now is already too much for what I have asked for.

Please forgive me when there were times that I question your love for me. For those times I feel that I was alone, and everything is going against me. It was so foolish of me to think that you left me in my fight. My mind is not meant to understand the deeper meaning of your wisdom. From this day on, I promise that I will always trust in you.

Thank you for all the trials and pains that you let me experience, for these things made me a stronger person.
Thank you for my flaws and for my unattractive appearance, for this is a constant reminder that I should remain humble. 

Thank you for an impoverished life, for this has taught me to conserve and be resourceful of what I have and most of all,

Thank you for the disease that I'll carry for the rest of my life, for this made me appreciate the simple things in life and the value of living it to the fullest.

Father, thank you for the past 12 years that you have never left my side. I am so happy that I get to have a longer life unexpectedly. And if the time comes that you will take this life of mine, I hope that it's the time that I have already touched other people's lives and made them believe that you exist, you care, and you are God. It's my greatest dream and I am always looking forward to being with you soon...

For everything, I thank you!

I'm giving back to you all the glory and honor, in Jesus name, AMEN..."

Happy Birthday Sweet Life Runner!

Good Vibes everyone and Sweet Running! ^_^

The Sweet and Sour of Running and Relationships

I have been running for a year already and I must say everything I have encountered along the way, my running milestones, events, trainings, joining run groups, writing blogs, the media interview, write up on the newspaper, meeting new friends and making an advocacy into reality was indeed a sweet experience. But running also takes up our time, especially if we are dead serious about training.

I am now training for my first Pikermi Race (21K or half marathon) hopefully before the year ends and to achieve that, I need to get serious on training. I have made a training plan for myself. I cannot adapt on published ones since they are hardcore for me. So just to give you a glimpse here are my training schedules.

Tuesdays - Bonifacio Global City - Recovery/Easy Run in 1 hour

Thursdays - aNR BHS Training Day - Drills

Sundays - BGC - Mc Kinley - Bayani - Lawton & back - LSD of 3 hours
*Gym sessions daily in mornings and evenings

I also have a day job every weekdays as a Marketing Assistant in an Well-known Magazine & Advertising Company from 9:00AM to 6:00PM. So if you can imagine, almost all my time is spent on work and trainings.

So where do personal relationships come in?

One Thursday night when I got home from my training, I found my significant other at home, playing on my PC. When he saw me he logged off the game and greeted me "How was your run?". It was the usual encounter we are having since I started training seriously. I will smile and tell him stories about it. He would gladly listen. But one time he asked me this question that left me astounded... "I am letting you run because I want you to be healthy, but I never expected that you'll take it too seriously that you're spending too much time on it..."

My initial reaction was "Why is he questioning me? I am not doing anything wrong". I got mad at first but when I looked into his face and saw his eyes full of emotions, I was speechless.

I have been keeping a blissful relationship with him for the past eight years. I never had any relationships before him. He was my first and probably my last. I was so young when I met him. He was like my older brother. We started out as friends. We go out and eventually after some time we decided to take it to the next level. Like every relationships, we also experienced the brink of breaking it off but maybe because we love each other much and we can't say goodbye, it's still worth one more try. Who would blame him? He is a very gorgeous man. Girls and the not so girls are going gaga over him. Funny is that even if he meet beautiful women along his way, he still comes back to the ugly girl that he can't let go. I wonder what's in me that keeps him coming back.

He is a very introvert man. Often mistaken as a snob. He chooses only people whom he wants to be friends with. Unlike other men, he dislikes going out, drinking with the boys and partying. He is a homebody. He rather sleep than spend time with friends. He is also a handyman. Can fix almost anything from broken fixtures, electricity lines to leaking faucets, that's why my Mom likes him. We save money in hiring someone to fix it. He works as a cook in an Italian restaurant. His life only rotates on family and work.

Nope, he's not a member of Jabbawockeez but he wants to be anonymous...

What I like most about him is he lets me grow on my own and explore on my own. He lets me have my own set of friends, he never restricts me on going out, meeting new people and trying out new things. He is very supportive of my cause. In return, I pay respect to him. I also give him his own space. I stay away from his personal things. I don't meddle with his work issues. I let him keep his own set of friends. I give him the privacy that he deserves. I just support him whenever he needs me.

Knowing him and weighing down the words that he said it is really very unbalanced. He won't say those things unless he thinks I'm going overboard.

As a woman keeping a full time day job and doing trainings in between, I must admit I am guilty of spending almost all of my time for career and running that I almost forget to spend some quality time with my personal relationships. I remember one time I went home past 1:00AM from a party with my runner friends my Mom said "I think you're spending too much time on running, you won't have a decent sleep, you still have work tomorrow morning". I just told her that I can handle the situation. I know she's just worried about my health. My Mom has been a worrier since I became a Diabetic, and she never stopped since.

We are not the typical couple who goes out for a date or spend time together outside much. We rather stay at home, watch DVD's or play computer games. But recently I am so guilty of not giving him some time. He may be at home but I neglect him most of the time. When I come home from trainings I am usually so tired that sleeping is the next thing I'll do.

One time, I had this conversation with a fellow runner friend who has been finding it difficult to balance his time on trainings and relationship issues, much like what my situation is. I feel for him. I know how hard it is to juggle everything. Like, if you can be in two places at the same time, you will. But then again, you can't.

At least Landon made Jamie experience being in two places at the same time... (From my favorite movie, A Walk To Remember starring Shane West and Mandy Moore)

Since I became sick, I am always particular in spending my time on things that I want to do. I don't procrastinate. I know at any moment I can do something productive. Maybe that's the effect if you know that your life's hourglass is emptying it's sand faster than others does. I feel that time is so precious I need to make the most out of it.

How am I dealing with it right now? I am trying to talk to him about it. I want him to understand but it seems that he is not considering. So, I decided to just give it some time, hoping that it will do good for both of us. I am trying to make up to him but recently I feel that he's losing it. I don't want to assume at this early but things has really changed a lot, and I feel I am the one to blame.

We have been through so much that I think this issue is just small compared to the previous ones. I can't afford to lose such wonderful person who loves me despite my condition and imperfections. I know no one can ever love me the way he does. Maybe were just having a thing they called the humdrum stage. Because of being together for the longest time, things feels a bit monotonous.

"Time is gold". A very common words of wisdom that is really very true. I also believe that it's not about giving material things but it's in giving your precious time for someone that is the best way to make them feel that they are indeed special because material things can be replaced but time, you can never bring it back.

Let us remember to value those people that loves us despite how busy we may be on our run trainings. A simple short message or call in the middle of a busy day is indeed reassuring, and how about a walk at a park or a dine out during weekends? Let us not wait for things to become complicated before we do something about it. Like what my Doctors always say "Prevention is better than cure".

Should we carry on? Maybe the thrill is gone

I'd like to know for sure

Why should we carry on? Could both of us be wrong?

We're standing much too close inside each others lives to see,

that love has passed us by...

(Should We Carry on by Airplay)

If we want to keep running for love, we need to give our best to keep the love we have despite the odds, and not run away from it...

Good Vibes everyone and Sweet Running! ^_^

The 2011 Merrell Adventure Run - Sweet Terrain Race!

When I attended Merrell Barefoot Launch at their concept store a couple of months ago, I was amazed with the beauty and functionality of the Merrell Barefoot Collection. What I like about it is that it looks like a regular shoe, unlike the others that looks so awkward.

I once became so interested with running barefoot. I even tried doing it. The experience was great but because of my condition, I discontinue. I will just saved my dreams for now.

So, after giving us a great barefoot shoe line, Merrell is again giving us a race that will be a good place to test those Trail Gloves!

On its second year, the Merrell Adventure Run again leads you through dirt roads, flowing streams, river crossing, rock scrambling, and uphill & downhill trails in a new but equally challenging & breathtaking race course at Timberland Heights, San Mateo, Rizal. Brave up to this outdoor challenge and run on the rugged side this June 18, 2011.

RACE INFORMATION
Date: June 18, 2011 (Saturday)
Time: Assembly is at 5:00am for all categories. Race starts at 5:40 am (21K), 5:50 am (10K), and 6:00am (5K).
Race Distances: 5K, 10K, 21K

RACE FEATURES
New Venue: Timberland Heights, San Mateo, Rizal
New Category: 21K
Exciting prizes and freebies await participants!

SINGLET DESIGN

AWARDS & RACE RESULTS

Prizes will also be raffled-off during the program. The Race Bib number automatically qualifies each runner for the RAFFLE DRAW.

• FINISHER’S MEDALS will be given after the race to the Top 20 finishers of 5K, Top 20 finishers of 10K, and all runners of 21K who finish the course before the 9:00am final cut-off time for all categories.
• CERTIFICATES will be sent through email within two weeks after the race date to those who finish the course in their specific categories.
• RACE RESULTS will be posted on Takbo.ph and the Merrell Philippines fan page.

SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT:
Trail running shoes, Hydration pack/Bottle belt, Cap, Gloves, Running gaiters and Energy bar or gel, especially for the 21K runners.

REGISTRATION:
Download the MAR registration form from HERE or get it at selected Merrell concept shops. Submit filled-out registration form with your fee from May 14 to June 14, 2011 at the MERRELL CONCEPT SHOPS listed below. Race Kits can be claimed June 1, 2011 onwards.

MARKET MARKET
G/F Space 23-24 Phase 8
Gaisano Market Market
Taguig City
Tel. no. (02) 836-1560

TRINOMA
Space 2128 M2
Quezon City
Tel. No. (02) 915-0197

FESTIVAL MALL
2/F Festival Mall
Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Tel. No. (02) 659-3284

MARQUEE MALL
Nepo Ave. Angeles City, Pampanga
Tel. no (045) 304-0654

REGISTRATION FEES: (Inclusive of Race Kit and Race Singlet)
P500 - 5K
P650 - 10K
P800 - 21K

REGISTER NOW!

AKTV Run - A Sweet Launch!

PRESS RELEASE: 

AKTV Run to kick-off new TV5 sports block on June 5

TV5 invites all active and sports-minded Filipinos to participate in the much-awaited AKTV Run this June 5 at the SM Mall of Asia grounds in Pasay City. The Kapatid network will introduce AKTV, the new primetime sports block that will become the home of sports and active lifestyle programs on IBC channel 13.

AKTV Run will give loyal Kapatid followers a preview of what to expect from AKTV, which caters to Filipinos sports enthusiasts, health buffs as well as people who enjoy an active lifestyle.

AKTV Run features a race in four categories: 3K, 5K, 10K and 21K. TV5 has partnered with RunRio, the country’s leading race organizer, in mounting the event. The early morning race program will be hosted by Manu Sandejas and Chiqui Roa, hosts of the TV5 Saturday sports profile show Astig.

Participants and their families can enjoy a fun fair after the race at the Mall of Asia grounds. There will be sports tents where people can watch and participate in demonstrations and instructional coaching for billiards, boxing, basketball and mixed-martial arts. There will be photo booths of various TV5 shows like Bagets, Iskul Bukol and Bangis. Kids can enjoy booths from Cartoon Network, Disney and Batibot. Food and Beverage booths will also be made available to everyone.

Interested participants can register online at www.interaksyon.com/aktv. Regular in-store registration will run from May 5-22 at the following sports and running stores: Runnr (Bonifacio High Street, Taguig), ROX (Bonifacio High Street), Toby’s (SM Mall of Asia), Planet Sports (Glorietta, Makati City), The Athelete’s Foot (Alabang Town Center, Muntinlupa and Robinsons Galleria), and at Planet Sports (Trinoma, Quezon City).

For more details about AKTV Run, log on to the TV5 news portal www.interaksyon.com/aktv.

“Aktv Run” will be held on June 5, 2011 at Mall of Asia. This event features 4 race categories: 3km, 5km, 10km and 21km.

REGISTRATION VENUES

Online registration period is from May 2, 2011 to May 22, 2011 only. Delivery of race kits will start on May 9, 2011.

Regular In-store registration period is from May 5, 2011 to May 22, 2011 only at the following venues:

• RUNNR – G/F Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City (12nn – 8pm,Tel # 4031787)
• R.O.X. – Level 2 R.O.X. Bldg. Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City (12nn–8pm, Tel # 8564638)
• Toby’s SM Mall of Asia – G/F Entertainment Mall, Roxas Blvd., Manila(12nn–8pm, Tel # 556-0445)
• Planet Sports Glorietta – 2F Glorietta 3, Makati City (12nn – 8pm, Tel # 8177896)
• The Athletes Foot Alabang Town Center, Muntinlupa City
• Planet Sports Trinoma – 2nd level, Trinoma cor. North EDSA, Quezon City(12nn – 8pm, Tel# 9167451)
• The Athlete’s Foot Robinsons Galleria – 3F Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas Pasig City(12nn – 8pm, Tel# 6363162)

Late Registration period is from May 23, 2011 to May 29, 2011 at the following venues only:

• R.O.X. – Level 2 R.O.X. Bldg. Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City (12nn–8pm, Tel # 8564638)
• Toby’s SM Mall of Asia – G/F Entertainment Mall, Roxas Blvd., Manila(12nn–8pm, Tel # 556-0445)
• Planet Sports Trinoma – 2nd level, Trinoma cor. North EDSA, Quezon City(12nn – 8pm, Tel# 9167451)

 

REGISTRATION FEES

 

Race Category	Registration Fee	Race Features
3K	Php500	Race kits (Bib No. & Timing Chip, Singlet), Discount coupon from Planet Sports, Tobys & RUNNR Store
5K	Php600	Race Kits (Singlet, Bib No. & timing Chip, Singlet), Finisher’s Kit, Race Analysis & Discount Coupon from Tobys, RUNNR & Planet Sports
10K	Php600	Race Kits (Singlet, Bib No. & timing Chip, Singlet), Finisher’s Kit, Race Analysis & Discount Coupon from Toby’s, RUNNR & Planet Sports
21K	Php750	Race Kits (Singlet, Bib No. & timing Chip, Singlet), Finisher’s Kit, Race Analysis, Finisher’s Medal, Finisher’s Shirt & Discount Coupon from Toby’s, RUNNR & Planet Sports

 

SINGLET DESIGN

ASSEMBLY AND GUN START TIMES

 

Race Category	Assembly Time	Gun Start	Race Maps
3K	4:00AM	5:55AM	3K map
5K	4:00AM	5:45AM	5K map
10K	4:00AM	5:35AM	10K map
21K	4:00AM	4:45AM	21K map

 

RACE MAPS

FINISHERS SHIRT: (For the 21K Finishers only)

FINISHERS MEDAL:

Finishers Medal will be given to the 21K finishers. The design is so unique. It is shaped like an old television set. I bet because of this you'll be tempted to run this distance. I almost do so too! ^_^

 

THE STARS OF AKTV:

  Manu Sandejas                 Chiqui Roa-Puno                   Carlo Biado                    Michelle Estuar

OFFICIAL WEBSITES:

 

- TV5 Official Website: http://interaksyon.com

- Runrio Official Website: http://www.runrio.com

- Runrio Official Facebook Page: Runrio, Inc.

 

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

 

• Registration may end earlier than announced deadline therefore, race kits may run out before May 29, 2011.
• A valid ID must be presented upon registration. For group registration, a photocopy of any valid ID must be presented by the representative.
• Singlet size availability will be on a first come first served basis.
• A disposable timing device will be used by all participants during the race.
• Finisher’s kits will be given upon finishing the race.
• For questions and inquiries please contact (call only) any of the following Runrio hotline numbers from Monday to Friday (9:00am – 6:00pm).

Landline	02-7031736
Smart	0929-7178164
Smart	0918-2576296

 

Reebok ZigTech Run - Sweet Road & Vertical Races

How about a race that will make you experience running on the road and on a vertical platform for a change?

Reebok, one of the most known sports brand, a subsidiary of the German sportswear company adidas is now making it's mark on the running community by releasing running apparels and shoes. The latest one they launched is the Reebok ZigTech Shoes.

I would love to have a pair of kicks exactly like these! ^_^

What make this shoe different? It has ZigTech - A unique bottom unit features a special lightweight foam that is engineered into an innovative, geometric, zig-zag shape. Cushion your landings with materials designed to help reduce muscle fatigue on your shins and leave your legs feeling fresher.

So, to launch their new running shoe and to give us a good race, Reebok has come up with the Reebok ZigTech Run, Energy for the body Road & Vertical Race this coming June 5, 2011 at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

RACE DETAILS

*Includes Vertical Run in the 5-level Parking Ramp of the CVC Law Center.

SINGLET DESIGN

RACE MAPS

AWARDS & PRIZES
Winners will receive Medals and Premium Items.

RULES & REGULATIONS
1. While every reasonable precaution will be taken by the organizers to ensure the participants' safety, it is understood that participants run at their own risk and the Organizers and/or Sponsors shall not be responsible or held liable for any injury, disability or death arising from training or occurring during participation in the race.
2. Participants are strongly encouraged to undergo medical check-up and/or consult medical practitioners prior to registration and before the actual race day.
3. Participants must wear the assigned bib and tag number on his/her chest. Participants not wearing a bib will be taken off the course by security officers.
4. To all 15k participants.
(a) Access to the CVC Law Center's 5-Level Parking Ramp will be from 6am-8:30am only. Runners who are unable to access this leg of the race will have to continue the race course until they reach the Finish Line.
(b) Only 40 runners at a time will be allowed to access the parking ramp. On the event that the maximum number is reached, runners may be asked to wait on queue until the race marshal gives the go-signal to proceed.
(c) Runners are not allowed access to any other part of the building other than the parking ramp.
5. A Participant must retire from the race immediately, if required to do so by any member of the medical staff, Race Director, Referee and/or Security Officer.
6. Once registration has been duly processed, there will be no entry fee refund for participants who for whatever reason do not eventually take part in the race.
7. There will be no entry fee refund if the event is cancelled on account of force majeure or for causes beyond the reasonable control of the organizers.
8. The Organizers reserve the right to use any photographs, motion pictures, recordings or other media records for any legitimate purpose including commercial advertising without giving monetary consideration to any participant.
9. The Organizers reserve the right to limit and/or refuse entries without giving any reason.
10. The Organizers will not entertain nor be in any way responsible for any disputes arising from incomplete entry details.
11. Race category and race entry are strictly non-transferable.
12. All winners must be physically present to receive their awards and prizes during the awarding ceremony. The Organizers shall have the right to forfeit the prizes of winners who are not physically present during the awarding ceremony.
13. The Organizers' decision is final.
14. For prize winners or possible prize winners, disputes and appeals must be made on-the-spot within 30 minutes of the published results on the results notice board on-site or immediately after the prize presentation whichever comes first.
15. For all participants, disputes and appeals regarding the results must be submitted in a written format, including electronic mail within 3 days of the race. Organizers reserve the rights not to entertain any dispute or appeal thereafter.

REGISTRATION VENUES:
Reebok Stores: Festival Supermall, SM Megamall, Trinoma Mall, Eastwood City Walk 2
Royal Sporting House: Ali Mall Cubao, Robinson's Place Ermita
The Shoe Shop: Rockwell, Alabang Town Center

REGISTRATION FORM:
Download the Zig Tech Run Registration Form HERE.

GOT QUESTIONS?
Event Secretariat
10am – 5pm, Mondays through Fridays
PEP SQUAD EVENTS & MARKETING SERVICES, INC.
Unit 304, Cityland III, VA Rufino St., Legaspi Village, Makati
Tel. No: (02) 5197010
Fax No: (02) 5198980
www.pepsquadevents.com

Good Vibes everyone and Sweet Running! ^_^

My Sweet Sensical Thoughts on Running Alone

I just have to make this clear that I have nothing against Never Run Alone. In fact, I am even a fan and a supporter of the Father and Son tandem, Vlad and Kevin because I am inspired by how they managed to run despite the the latter's condition of having Cerebral Palsy and Autism.

Having that said I can now divulge my thoughts about running alone...

You might be wondering how I started doing it? Well, when I started running I was already alone. I have no one to run with. It's by sheer motivation and will of my own that I do my runs around Bonifacio High Street since my friend who influenced me to run has a different time schedule with me so we have no choice but to train separately.

Believe it or not but the person that you see now, the cheerful, positive, sweet and carefree Amanda is not like that before. I am the exact opposite. I was meek, negative, loner and a worrier. I seldom go with groups of people. I don't have much friends. I always sit at the back of the classroom. I eat alone, I study alone and I go out alone. I am my own bestfriend. I feel so secure that way, and I hate taking risks because I am afraid to make mistakes, I'm afraid to fall and I'm afraid to fail...

I grew up in a competitive world when I started schooling. I am always told I'm smart, and that's the only mileage I got that makes me stood up from my good looking brethren and kins. I wasn't blessed with good looks, but at least I got the most good looking report card to show.

Good thing is that eventually, I got out of my introversion. But it's still a part of who I am so having my alone time is still a part of my itinerary for everything I do and will do.

So, why should you try running alone? Here are some sensible thoughts to consider:

1. Running alone will get you closer to your own self - People always do take care of their relationships with other people but sometimes, we don't realize that we take our relationship with our own self for granted. If you are having some troubles with social relationships, maybe it's high time that you consider befriending your own self. Besides, your secrets are surely safe on your own. 

2. Running alone can lead to self discovery - You might think, who doesn't know their own self? but believe me you don't really know well until you give it some time to discover, and that alone time will reveal things you won't even imagine. I discovered that when I'm at the peak of running, I can sing out loud to relax, and I won't know that if I would always run with someone.

3. Running alone can give you ample time to think about things - If you have a running buddy, tendency is you'll gonna chat your way from start to finish and that won't give you time to weight things on your own. Ofcourse you and your running buddy can talk about it and you'll get a good insights but at the end of the day, you're the one who will decide on your own. 

4. Running alone can give you time to consolidate your feelings and thoughts - There are those difficult times in which I get so confused about things that talking about it to friends will create more confusion. So before I lay my cards, I run alone, clear out my head and organize everything. So when I am ready to talk about it I am well versed and I'll get their perception and advices in a more accurate way.

5. In running alone, you can control your pace - Especially in my condition in which I cannot push myself to extreme limits. It's hard to run with a health concern. I am always wary about what I feel. I try to avoid running in groups whenever I don't feel well. I don't want to cause delays and slow downs to other runners. If you run alone, you are the pacer and the sweeper of your own. You can stop if you want and you can speed up if you want to, without pressure!

6. Running alone can help you gain friends along the way - This is very true to me. As I was doing my LSD's alone (Long Slow Distance), I come across some runners who happens to be just mutual friends over Facebook or Dailymile. Who would have thought that some of them will become real friends and even close! All you need to do is to wave your hands, smile and greet them a sweet "good morning!"

How do I prepare for my Alone Runs? It's just simple!

• I eat a good dinner
• I sleep early
• I set up my alarm clock at 4:00AM
• I take a quick shower
• I eat an energy bar
• I drink one full glass of fresh cold water
• I always make a checklist of the following before I leave the house:

• Hydration belt
• Towel
• Watch
• Cash
• Mobile Phone
• Quick Munchies (Energy Bars, Cookies or anything you can grab and munch)
• Blinker
• My Eyeglasses 
• Kennyson (My mp3 player)
• Name Card (I have one that I put on my shoes for identification in case I pass out, it is also written there that I am Diabetic).

Let me tour you around the route that I always love to run on alone...

My Usual LSD Map that I run on every Sundays

I set off at 5:00AM. I start at Kalayaan Avenue (Gate 1) Then to BGC, Old Lawton, Mc Kinley Hill, Bayani Road, Heritage Park, end of Lawton Avenue and back to Kalayaan. Most of the time, I do Lawton Avenue first then go down to Bayani, Heritage Park then down to Mc Kinley and back to Kalayaan. It'll take me approximately 3 hours to finish the whole course.

So just to give you a view of the scenery, I took my camera on one of my LSD alone runs, see to appreciate! ^_^

My starting point, Kalayaan Avenue

Going to Bonifacio High Street

Old Lawton! I love this route!

Long Road of Lawton Avenue

The Famous McKinley Killer Hills!

Going to McKinley

Going down Bayani Road

For a different feel (softer in this instance), You can try running on the grass at Heritage Park

My Pitstop. 7-11 Convenience Store at the end of Lawton Avenue

A walkway going back to BGC. A nice scenario of a kind uphill.

The route where I love to sprint!

But running alone also has it's dangers. So if you wanna try it out here are some of things you have to bear in mind:

• Never ever run alone on places that you are not familiar with, specially if it's on places where the security is not that good.
• Never run alone at midnight or very early in the morning as this are the times where you can be exposed to the dangers outside.
• Never run alone if you are not feeling well.
• Never run alone if you think that the weather will not be favorable for you.
• Never explore unfamiliar routes alone.

A SWEET REMINDER: Always let your family and runner friends know if you are running alone on a certain date at a certain place just to have an assurance, and just in case something comes up. If you think you'll gonna get bored, try to bring an mp3 player with you but keep it in low volume so you can still be aware of the sounds from the environment. Remember to always smile and greet fellow runners along the way and enjoy the alone time with yourself.

and you get to meet runner friends as well! ^_^

Everyone's a hero
If you want to be
Everyone's a prisoner
Holdin' their own key
Every step I take
And every move I make
Always one step closer
I don't mind runnin' alone

(Running Alone by Steve Perry)

I hope you'll enjoy running alone as much as I do.

Good Vibes everyone and Sweet Running! ^_^

Energizer Night Race in Dagupan - A Sweet Night Run!

RACE DETAILS

INFORMATION

1.   Energizer Night Race will be held on May 21, 2011 (Saturday) at the CSI The City Mall Lucao, Dagupan City.
2.   The run is open to all individuals, with categories of 3, 5, and 10 kilometer distances.

ASSEMBLY, CHECK-IN, & GUN START

1.   Assembly, check-in, and gun start details for all categories:

Assembly Area	Check In Time	Gun Start
CSI The City Mall Lucao Parking Lot	7:00 PM	8:00 PM

2.   Participants who are late at the gun start forfeit his/her chance of winning but can still participate in the race.

RACE CURFEW & FINISH LINE

1.	Race marshals will pick-up participants who fail to finish the race within 2 hours. They will not be entitled to Certificates.
2.	As the runners cross the finish line, they will move to the chute corresponding to your race category (3K, 5K, or 10K). Race marshals will remove the tags.

PRIZES

1.	The top 3 male and female finishers per category will be awarded with medals and cash prizes. There will be a total of 18 winners in this night race. CATEGORY 1ST PLACE 2ND PLACE 3RD PLACE 10K 10,000 + medal + Energizer gift packs 7,000 + medal + Energizer gift packs 5,000 + medal + Energizer gift packs 5K 10,000 + medal + Energizer gift packs 7,000 + medal + Energizer gift packs 5,000 + medal + Energizer gift packs 3K 10,000 + medal + Energizer gift packs 7,000 + medal + Energizer gift packs 5,000 + medal + Energizer gift packs
2.	Certificates a.    Individual Certificate of Participation will be given to all finishers. b.    Special certificates will be awarded to the oldest runner, youngest runner, biggest delegation and best in costume. Note: Employees of Energizer Philippines, Inc. and GMA Network, Inc. are disqualified from winning the cash prize.             Best in Costume             Oldest Participant                Participation             Biggest Delegation             Youngest Participant
3.   Medals
3k Champion Male Medal        3k 2nd Place Male Medal        3k 3rd Place Male Medal
3k Champion Female Medal        3k 2nd Place Female Medal        3k 3rd Place Female Medal
5k Champion Male Medal        5k 2nd Place Male Medal        5k 3rd Place Male Medal
5k Champion Female Medal        5k 2nd Place Female Medal        5k 3rd Place Female Medal
10k Champion Male Medal       10k 2nd Place Male Medal       10k 3rd Place Male Medal
10k Champion Female Medal      10k 2nd Place Female Medal      10k 3rd Place Female Medal
Medal Back                         Lace

PROTEST & COMPLAINTS

Protests or complaints related to the race will be accepted ONLY in written form. The race organizers reserve the right to reject, disqualify or withdraw any race participant before or during the actual race. The organizer’s decision shall be final.
 

OTHERS

1.	There will be directional signages and marshals all over the route to guide the runners during the race.
2.	All runners must secure a ribbon at every designated turnaround point of their respective category.
3.	Water stations are located in strategic areas along the race route.
	Warning: Inadequate training, failure to pace and disregard for the importance of taking fluids have resulted in life-threatening conditions such as heat stroke in both experienced and first-time road race runners. If this is your first race or first experience in a warm, humid climate, take fluids at each water station.
4.	An ambulance with qualified medical personnel will be on stand-by all throughout the event.
5.	There will be a baggage booth located near the registration area. A baggage stub is provided in the race bib which must be detagged and surrendered upon check-in of baggage. The race organizers will assume no responsibility for items checked-in.
6.	No upgrading or downgrading of race categories.
7.	Washrooms will be available.
	Shirts                         Marshall                         RTV Shirt                             Staff                         Traffic Enforcer

Challenge yourself in 3k, 5k and 10k routes.

RACE MAPS

3K Route

5K Route

10K Route

Race route maps are subject to change. New race route maps will be given and racers will also be briefed
on the race day itself.

RACE FEES AND INCLUSION

Registration Fee is P450 for all categories.
Note: Registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

REGISTER ONLINE and get P100 off Registration fee! Click here to register online!

RACE KIT INCLUDES:

     


1.   Singlet (for first 2,500 registrants only; sizes will be subject to availability)
      Singlet should be worn during the entire race.
2.   Race bib with race tag and baggage stub
      Race bib must be pinned in front of the singlet and must be visible at all times for the
      duration of the race. It is non-transferable. Do not fold or remove the race tag. Only race
      marshals are authorized to detag at the finish line for proper processing. All runners must have
      their race numbers marked by the official marshals upon check-in.
3.   Route map
      All runners must run according to the race route. Refer to the route map as reference.
4.  Energizer headlight
      Energizer headlight shall be worn by the runner all throughout the race. Briefing on how to
      use the headlight will be conducted prior to the race.
5.   Schick razor

RACE KIT CLAIMING

Runners shall claim the following at the registration booth located at CSI The City Mall Lucao Parking Lot on the event date. Said booth will be opened as early as 5:30 PM:
Energizer cap (to be distributed onsite)
Energizer headlight (only for those who would not be able to claim their headlight upon registration

WHERE TO REGISTER

Registration Dates:    APRIL 24 - MAY 15,2011

Registration Venues: CSI The City Mall Lucao Atrium

Eastgate Plaza

GMA Dagupan Station

REGISTER ONLINE and get P100 off Registration fee!
Click here to register online!

Registration Fee: P450.00*

Online registration is also available on this website:
http://www.energizerbatteries.com.ph

ONLINE REGISTRATION

1. Fill-up the e-Reg form then click submit.
2. A copy of your e-Reg form will be emailed to your specified email address. Print and sign the e-Reg form.
3. Deposit payment at any BPI Family Branch nearest you. Bank account details as follows:

Bank Name                           :     BPI Family
Account Name                     :     The WebSideStory
Current Account Number  :   679-1-00722-2

4. Claim your race pack @ GMA TV Dagupan, GMA Complex, Claveria Road, Malaued District, Dagupan City. Please present your original deposit slip and submit photocopy of deposit slip and signed e-Reg Form.

Important Reminders:

1. Registration is confirmed only upon payment of race fees. Receipt of e-Reg form via email does not guarantee a slot in Energizer Night Race Dagupan Leg.
2. To check if you are officially registered, please go to athlete’s info.
3. Online registration is only limited to 200 successful registrants. Online registration will close upon reaching this allotted number.

Want to run this race with your barkada for FREE? Heres how:

Schick Philippines Inc is a proud sponsor of Energizer Night Race In Dagupan!

Like Schick Philippines Fan Page and get a chance for you plus 3 of your friends to experience one of the most exciting running events in the country! The Energizer Night Race in Dagupan! Share your most memorable bonding moment with your barkada, post and share your photo in Schick Philippines Fan Page wall. Don't forget to tag 3 of your barkada that you will bring to the Energizer Night Race!

The best bonding moment photo that adhere the most to the theme plus the number of likes/comments wins!
*Like Schick Philippines Fan Page and Post a bonding moment with your barkada then Tag three (3) of your barkada that you want to bring to the night race. (Make sure they also like Schick Fan page)
* Submission of photo entries will be from May 4 to 17. Announcement of winners will be on May 18, 2011

Photos will be judged based on the following criteria:
* Adherence to the theme: 70%
* Schick Fan favorite: 30%
*"Likes" will be verified and if found coming from fictitious or questionable FB account, the contestant would be disqualified.

The best Schick smooth running entry will win four complimentary registrations with race kits in any race category 3k, 5k, or 10k run on Energizer Night Race in Dagupan plus accommodations, and round trip Transportation Manila-Dagupan City.

Experience a race outside the Metro at night! REGISTER NOW!

Good Vibes everyone and Sweet Running! ^_^