Anthony Mariano will run his first marathon to help Filipino schoolchildren read

Anthony Mariano of Sambat Trust will run his first 42K at the Honolulu Marathon this 11 December 2011, this Sunday. He will be running for Sambat Trust and with your donation, you can help him raise funds to help schoolchildren read books. Below is about the runner and his reason for this charity run.

Please help him raise ￡1250.00 and more. Your help will go a long way in his advocacy. I have worked for Sambat Trust as a photographer and have been witness to what the organization has been been doing to poor Filipino students especially in Batangas. Read on.

I have been running for about two years, but only short distances, usually about 5km, twice/three times a week. I got started because I wanted to get fit and support Sambat Trust at the same time. Yes, my first marathon.

I Entered the O2 half marthon in London in September to prepare for the full marathon in Honolulu this month and been cramming last minute trainings as I only have time on Sundays to do long distances: Sunday, November 6th did 16km, 13th did 20km, 20th did 24km and 27th, 30km. I stuck to short distances for the last two weeks before the big day.

I know this is not ideal training but I have to schedule it around my work. Sambat Trust is supporting the development of children’s literacy and education in the Philippines by establishing school libraries, granting scholarships and training teachers.

Read through Anthony’s post on why he’s running and get inspired.

I have done my share by donating ￡10. Let’s not just go for the target but exceed it more. Every ￡ counts. Do your share by clicking at the JustGiving donation page.Similar Posts:

• Interview: Kelly Lim, Ultramarathon Runner, BDM102 & TNF100 2010
• I’m back to running again!
• Francis Hortelano’s 10 life lessons from the BDM102 ultramarathon
• Wanna make a difference? Join the Bottle School Run!
• Barefoot revolution w/ Vibram Five Fingers

Finishing the TNF100 Baguio

Part 1

In time for the TNF100 in CamSur, I’m posting the write up I requested of Francis Hortelano, who I interviewed before for his BDM102 2010 experience.

The Race proper

By 8:30pm, I was back at my room. Took dinner. Fixed my things and then slept. By 12 midnight, I woke up and couldn’t get back to sleep. I spent some time at the veranda just reflecting on what will transpire within 30 hours the moment I get out of the Unit. I conditioned my mind running through the 100KM maps. Just doing so was already tiring. But I kept a pledge: No turning back.

Soon after, I showered and got ready for the race. I went to the starting line for check-in at 2:30am. Let’s get in on. We were probably around 300 to begin with since both 50 and 100KM runners depart at 3AM. After the gunstart by Mayor Rey
Bautista and the DoT Director, the runners frantically secured their places. We were like a swarm of fireflies headed to the
hills.

Initially, I was wearing my Petzl headlamp but upon arrival in John Hay, the pitch dark and thick fog overpowered its glow. I stopped and used my more powerful Led Lenser lest I would also stumble on pine roots and roll over a ravine. I had to step-No-step-Yes to avoid the scattered horses’ wastes. And eventually used a trek pole to ease my acrophobic tendencies.

The trail run alone within John Hay is knee-pounding. I had a sigh of relief when we arrived at Loakan Airport. The air was refreshingly cool and the sun is yet sleeping. Going down to Camp6 is a bit tricky and treacherous. Kennon Road down below is ones destination with a slight mistake. The tireless marshalls carried petromax on their shoulders to ensure that the dangerous cliffs are well lighted. Morning has broken when I arrived at the Zigzag Road. I was basically with mountaineers at this point.

Crossing the hanging bridge at Camp6 is a signal for our ascent to Mt. Kabuyao. The Bued river is almost dry and the mountain was burnt. The trail dust is therefore mixed with ashes. Since I am wearing shorts without any gaiters, my legs soon looked like I was headed for an Ati-Atihan contest. I thank God for the perfect weather, otherwise, if it rained, my hands and face would have perfectly fitted a Maskara festival too. Anyhow, I remember running through another hanging bridge.

I dared not look down. I fixed my vision ahead. Otherwise, I would unnecessarily tremble. When will scientists develop a pill
for acrophobia?

I took my breakfast along the trail. Then passed through some vegetables gardens of bell pepper and tomato and then potato and then carrots. Oh yes, there were also Baguio pechays. Then some flowers too. All these beautified the already scenic trails that we were navigating. At times, I would stop and just gaze around the horizon. Everytime I felt tired, the TNF banners splattered across the trails reminded: Endure the trail. Not the endurance that makes one suffer. In fact, the trails only increases the endurance threshold of ones body.

Since there was a cut-off time atop the mountain, I pushed a bit. The summits are always the penultimate dreams of mountaineers. There is a different high when one is on top of the world. Only breathtaking views and far away from the maddening metro-noise. Upon reaching the radar at Sto. Tomas, I had lunch. Again, I paced with my fellow mountaineers till I was certain that I met the first cut-off time. I think, we were three hours ahead. Soon after, I had to relax and enjoy the views. At this point, my fellow mountaineers have gone ahead. The descent back to camp6 was another 3 hours.

Three hours in solitude is a rare reward. I can be extroverted but I am also comfortable being alone. Such solitary moments are meaningful instead of empty. I can listen to myself. I can watch my thoughts. And I can plan clearly. Enjoying oneself is truly empowering in ultras. If one is afraid of being alone. That’s the end.

I had the chance to look back and thank from my heart all those who had been understanding and supportive to my activities. I likewise quietly sought forgiveness from those whom I’ve hurt knowingly or unknowingly. Ultra-running can only make one more humane in many ways. Ultra-running provides a lot of time to contemplate on so many things that can readily be taken for granted.

The descent from the German house to Camp6 is a bit technical. I had to aid myself with ropes so as not to fall. Thanks to the Marshalls for preparing them. At certain points, the trail is already overused hence chances of sliding is high. Thanks to my reliable pole for keeping me balanced. Prior to reaching Zigzag Road again, I was distracted by a loud roaring sound. Sounded like a tempest of sorts. Later on, I was awed by a landslide. Rocks and boulders madly crushing each other down at the fastest pace. It was an apocalyptic sight. Soon after, silence. Deafening silence. Everything finally settled down.

Such poignant scene became a powerful metaphor for me. No matter how crucifying the situations are… to the point that it feels like the end of time, everything balances in the end. Everything becomes stable once more. The point is: Just don’t easily give up. Soon enough, this had to be my battlecry in finishing the race.

I safely arrived at the hanging bridge once more. Buti naman at naka-smile ka pa na bumaba, was the complement of the tindera at Kennon Road. Dahan-dahan lang po ako ate, my thankful response, napakaganda po dito. Next challenge is the ascending climb back to Loakan. I was trekking with a runner who fell and so limping on every stride. Soon, I was with Ron, a fellow BDMer. He has DNFed in the past two TNF’s. Hence, determined to make it this time.

On our uphill climb, we found Kelly from Singapore. She requested us to alert the marshalls and the medics. She was hyperventilating, I feel so dizzy and I am seeing stars in front me, said Kelly. I brought out my first aid kit. She chose to take one chewable bonamine. Kelly is a seasoned ultra-runner across the globe, but this one is different, she explained. I wouldn’t want to leave her but she told me to go ahead and go on with the race. Sunset has set it and it was starting to drizzle. I was worried a bit. I haven’t seen Blas at all in the race. I thought, he must be informed of Kelly’s condition. But as I went on, I met the marshall and the para-medics to aid her. I felt secured that she is safe. Ron and I had to push ahead.

My rest stops would soon become frequent. I drank some yakult at a sari-sari store. My stomach refused to take in water and Gatorade anymore. It must be too drowned by them after 16 hours.

Terestial Naughty Fairies

I soon found myself going through Scout Barrio and John Hay’s trail for more than three hours all by myself. l switched on my headlamp again. It dawned on me that it was the second night of not sleeping and still in constant motion. I just steadily focused on every step. Slowly but surely. Till I had surreal experiences. I was sensing that I was trekking with others when I certainly am alone. Sometimes, I felt someone was behind me. At times in front or far ahead. I reasoned out, I must be too tired. I must be hallucinating already. I crashed all my fears though. I must be tough at all cost.

But wait, didn’t I also do my craziest teenage mischief in Baguio when one summer at midnight, after a birthday party, my friends and I decided to “ghost hunt” along rumoured haunted houses and places? And all we got was sleep deprivation. We would scare ourselves to death at nearing footsteps and the slightest of sounds. Till the security guards supposedly protecting those houses would shout, anong ginagawa nyo dyan? We would run inside our getaway car and rush away. We then taunt the person who got scared the most and laugh to our hearts content. Since then, I never believed in ghosts.

Back to the TNF, I decided to sleep instead of struggling. I prayed that the snakes won’t lie next to me. Snakes, I won’t stay long. I just need a rest, I pleaded. I slept with my headlamp on hoping that fellow runners or marshalls would notice me. But no one did.

I soon woke up and it was around 10 PM. I started trekking anew. I soon met runners who are already back for their second loop. You still have enough time, was their encouragement, but please find a companion when you take your second loop. They were trekking in fours or fives. I quickly got out of John Hay and then met also the AMCI team for their second loop. I arrived safely at Base Camp. I was told I can take dinner and afterwards resume by run. Since I felt very dirty, I decided to go to Burnham Suites instead. Took a hot shower. Changed clothes. Ate dinner and again, I decided to sleep. I left it all to fate, if I still hear the alarm. Otherwise, I am safely back to bed and that should be perfect.

Trudger Night Freak

But yes, by 12 Midnight, I woke up. Laced another shoes and with a new outfit this time, the organizers didn’t even recognize me when I told them #721 is ready to go. Are you sure, you still wish to go? was their very polite remark. I smiled back and said, yes. I again started trudging till I reached the Hospital at Military Cut-off. The Marshall was a bit concerned that I am alone but I assured him that I would be fine. He accompanied me up to the old gate of John Hay.

From there I caught up with Paolo, a BDMer who was trekking with Jubs and his friend. Less than 100 meters after, the friend of Jubs couldn’t make it anymore. Paolo asked me to move ahead and they will just catch up. To combat my surreal experiences, I played on a song from my mobile phone. It was recorded by my friend Jerome who passed away. I was surprised that the lyrics contained, do you hear the child who wants to run with wind… and you’re running safely to the ends of the world. At that point, I was but a free child running with Baguio’s cool breeze to nowhere.

Soon after, only Paolo and Jubs arrived. Three of us were then trekking when we met Red, another BDMer, who was lost twice in the trails. Red and Jubs walked ahead while Paolo and I were taking our time. They would wait for us after the long descent at the US Embassy. We soon met the group of Tobias and Mercy of AMCI, the group of Sir Jonel and another AMCI Team (Yob, Manny DS and Manny T.) If Red was lost and I had surreal experiences, Sir Manny T. later informed me that Yob had been telling them that they are five trekking together. They had to shake and remind him that they are just 4. They would find out that Yob is trembling. Such is the TNF. It would alter your state of mind to the brink.

Jubs, Red, Paolo and I soon arrived at Loakan Road. We rested for a while. Till Paolo exploded a bomb, guys I think, you need to go ahead. My legs are already very painful. I started making some calculations. Guys we have a lot of time, it is still 7 hours to go. We can still do it. Jubs added, Paolo you can join us till the airport and decide from there. Paolo acceded to the idea. But the pain has grown into intolerable level already. Upon crossing the airport, Paolo declared that he is quitting and it is only around 3:15am. Our cut-off is 10AM back to Base Camp.

It was pitch dark and I was uneasy to leave Paolo behind. I called the attention of the Marshalls to look after him. You are determined to proceed. So finish it. Don’t worry about me, said Paolo. Red and Jubs are now out of sight. I had to catch up.

I was experiencing my second wind at this point. I felt so strong once more. Eventually, Jubs, Red and I caught up with two Skyrunners. They were three initially but one already DNFed. So there we go, another long and winding trail of Loakan. We had to wake up the Marshalls everytime we passed by their tents. They must be dead-tired logging-in our bib numbers. It was almost 5:30am when we were back at Scout Barrio. We had to trek faster to avoid the trail congestion. The 22 and 11 KM runners were already trail running.

Temperance Nobility Fortitude

At this point, I was very relaxed already. I knew, I would make it to the cut-off time and so I had to enjoy early the morning walk in John Hay. It was night time when I had my first three rounds. My companions have already gone ahead. It was inspiring to meet the fresh runners of the day. Many of them were already saying congratulations when they learned I am on my way to the 100KM finish line. One even stopped and asked, I am already hard up with 22 how much more with 100? But one said, wow, I will also try that. It again dawned on me that I was already running/trekking for two days due to their persistent questions. Their energy was so uplifting. I managed to run with them for the last three kilometres to the finished line.

I didn’t know that there is a separate lane for 11, 22 and 100. I was signalled to take the lane of the 100. I was happily running alone in my lane and the people likewise shared the happiness. The Race Director, Neville Manaois, soon congratulated me. I really couldn’t recall much what happened afterwards, I just found myself being tossed in the air by fellow mountaineers for a job luckily and happily done. Soon after, some 22/11KM runners wanted to have their pictures taken with me. I am not used to this, so I quietly faded away and went back to my room to eat fruits, bathed and rested. I didn’t even bother to go down for the awarding ceremonies. I just watched from the veranda.

At 3PM, Baguio was drenched with rain. I woke up. Gazed at the horizon. Look above and Thank God. I may have experienced a hell of difficulties the the City of Pines but the experience only made me stronger.

Baguio will forever be my paradiso.Similar Posts:

• Experiencing Hell in Heaven: Francis Hortelano’s TNF100 2010 experience, Part 1 of 2
• Interview: Kelly Lim, Ultramarathon Runner, BDM102 & TNF100 2010
• Mayon Trail Run 2010 runner experiences
• Had fun shooting at the Cebu City Marathon 2010
• Mayon Trail Run 2011

Resting along the route

Alright, this is yet another oxymoron. Anyhow, allow me to put some context. I’ve always romanticized Baguio as the abode of the gods, where the tired clouds, like huge cotton candies, crawl down to rest and quietly fly again at dawn. A tranquil place of motley flowers and a refreshing sea of greens. A pathway perfect to trudge after a cleansing downpour, and play with pine cones, even golf balls, and pine needles amidst magnificent sights.

This is the Baguio I’ve known. The Baguio I’ll always treasure. The nostalgia of my dreams.

Since my childhood, I’ve always looked forward to heavenly vacations in Baguio. I am glad that these dreams turned into memorable realities. Biking and endless swinging at Burnham. Cotton candies, ice creams and skating in John Hay. Counting lights that dotted the hills before bedtime. Innocently asking why a “smoke” comes out of my mouth as I wake up. And the knitted sweaters and blankets and bonnets that would want me to sleep forever. This is Baguio, my personal Olympus.

Fast forward. So when I learned that the next TNF100 is in Baguio. My heart pumped so much excitement. However, since I just finished the BDM 102, I tempered myself. I knew, I still needed to recover and wouldn’t have time to train afterwards. But one day, I passed by TNF at G4. I was surprised to see my fellow BDMers on the list. Later, I was informed that many more signed up. Eventually, including Team Blas. Kelly is to fly from Singapore and TR has gotten a leave.

Are you signing up, I was asked. Oh no, not now, I’ll think about it, I quipped. Then rushed out of the store before any hasty decision took place. But the pull of Baguio is just too strong and irresistible. Few days after, I went back to register. Are you signing for 11 or 22?, was next question. Hmmm… can I try, 100?, was my quick response. I got a blank stare in front of me. I was told that only few finished the TNF100 last year and that the trail this time is difficult. And what more, the fee is P2K compared to P500 in the 11 or 22KMs. I sensed that TNF wanted me to realized what I am signing for.

I pondered for a while. Then I nailed a big decision, I’ll sign up for 100KM. Thanks to BDM102 and my mountainous 2009 for my renewed confidence. I may fail eventually, but at least, I’ll give my best try, I kept convincing myself.

Upon signing up, I left everything to fate. I never joined any races after the BDM or ever did any serious long run. In fact, I had an easy climb to Mt. Pinatubo for recovery. Later, I found myself jogging around Sampaloc lake in San Pablo then off I went to an 8-day backpacking trip during the holy week and just before the TNF, a weekend beach-bumming in Calaguas Island and Bagasbas beach. And what did I get? Blisters for running barefeet in the white powdery sand and bruises as I stumbled on a nylon used to anchor a boat . Oh no, this is not supposed to be? Not just before an ultra race. But it happened already.

Nothing else can be done. I can only accept my fate and retired to my tent when it rained hard. I was already musing, is this a prelude to my TNF escapade? Shall I instead back out?

Ok, I dreaded the thought of visiting a Sports Doc not because I fear to be admonished but because I might not be allowed to run. Instead, I self-medicated. I asked forgiveness from my body and pleaded that it heals well and fast enough for the TNF.

The body is not a thoughtless machine. It is an amazing entity in itself. It is self-sustaining. It responds properly. It cooperates like a faithful companion. I vowed to give it a day-off before the race. So I was in Baguio a day before the event.

Apart from attending to some personal concerns, I likewise planned to visit a sick friend who was diagnosed with a stage 4 cancer. We spoke over the phone instead. She was in pain but still wished me well for the run. This time, I acceded to her invitation to stay at her Burnham Suite unit just a few meters from the TNF Base Camp. There could be no perfect place but nearest the Base Camp. She has always encouraged me to visit Baguio but I never had the chance till the TNF.

There must be a right time for everything. Nothing is purely coincidental. She was happy that I finally did. I am likewise thankful for her kindness. I couldn’t easily grasp for answer when she asked me, how do you deal with pain? I can only introspect, pain in the body may not necessarily bring sorrow to the soul. Somehow, I was expecting to let her know my stories on pain management after the race. But this will never happen again since she has happily faced and escaped pain victoriously.

My TNF race was somehow loaded with thoughts of life, friendship and death. The last time I was in the City was during the wake of my friend, Jerome, who fell down with his motorbike at Marcos Hi-way in 2008. At his wake, I was with Devorah, a US Citizen, and Leonie. As destiny would call it, Devorah likewise died last year due to an illness and just now Leonie. I trekked Mt. Sto. Tomas with Devorah and spent much time in John Hay with Leonie and Jerome. The TNF 100 follows John Hay to Loakan Airport down to Camp 6 up to Mt. Sto. Tomas and Mt. Kabuyao and back.

And what more. A few weeks back, Paeng, a friend in the office, also died. And before he did, he told me, to take care and enjoy. He held my hand and I Knew it was goodbye. He likewise died of cancer being a second-hand smoker. Before, I left for TNF, I received a how are you? message from Doc Cely, my friend’s wife. I can only excitedly tell her about my run. I likewise assumed that my departed friend is happy with my TNF100 like he did with my BDM102.

These circumstances really brought back memories of timeless friendships during the race. The trail likewise made me reflect on life. Life is short. It must be spent in a worthwhile way. It must be enjoyed.

THE TNF BRIEFING

I bought so many food and Gatorade supply for the race. When I deposited them at the TNF station, I was asked, are you going on a picnic or a race? I can only laugh in response. It was here that I met more trail runners from AMCI, UPM, Team Blas and the rest of the BDMers. It was an instant reunion of sort.

I was likewise visited by my Camiguin-based friend Rosalie who happened to be in Baguio that time. We sipped some hot lemongrass tea at Cafe by the Ruins after our briefing at the City Hall. I shared her victory when she received the acceptance text message from Fullbright to attend a two-year scholarship at the New York University. She likewise humbly allowed me to browse a book featuring Artists who can change the world. There are three Filipinos, I think, in that book and Rosalie is one of them. Her happiness is infectious. You enjoy your run and am sure you can make it well, she continued, see you at Times Square on new year’s eve.

Part 2Similar Posts:

• Experiencing Hell in Heaven: Francis Hortelano’s TNF100 2010 experience, Part 2 of 2
• I’m back to running again!
• Francis Hortelano’s 10 life lessons from the BDM102 ultramarathon
• Columbia’s Eco Trail Run 2011
• Interview: Francis Randy Hortelano, Ultramarathon runner, part 1 of 2

Kelly Lim at KM 7 during the BDM102

I was one of the support crew of Titanium Runner, Francis Hortelano and Kelly Lim, a Singaporean, in the Bataan Death March Ultramarathon 102 (BDM102) in 2010. To round off the series of interviews I did for the three, here’s the last part of the installment featuring Kelly, a veteran ultramarathon runner who has raced around the world. The interview was conducted April 2010. She was one of the few women finishers in the Bataan Death March 160K Ultramarathon.

———————-

Can you give a short background of yourself? What do you do?

I’m a Signal Officer with the Singapore Armed Forces since 1993.

Have you always been active? Why running? Can you give a brief background of your running history? How many races and countries have you run?

When I first joined the Army, I was not very fit nor was I active. Every year, we have to take part in the Individual Physical Proficiency Test as well as the Army Half Marathon. I didn’t experience any runner’s high nor did I enjoy the training and running. By 2001, I decided to give it a shot at running the Singapore Marathon. I started to subscribe to running magazines like Runners’ World and Running Times, and planned out my own program based on what I read. I found that when I set my own goal, it was very fulfilling.

I had no lack of motivation to wake up early on weekends to do my own run. Although I didn’t complete my first marathon within the official time, I still managed to complete the distance. After that first experience, I examined where I went wrong and did well, and decided to try my first overseas marathon in a country with cooler climate, i.e. Quebec City Marathon in Canada.

Kelly at the KM 0 marker of the Bataan Death March. CLICK TO ENLARGE

In 2005, I found it restless to run just a marathon a year and went on to complete 6. The following year, I became even more restless to run just 42.195km and embarked on running ultras. Since then, I have completed 39 marathons (including 2 out of the official timing – Singapore Marathon in 2001 and Nagano Marathon in 2003) and 10 ultra marathons, (not including the 30-hour Charity Run I did on 1 Jan 2010 which I covered 150km) in 16 different countries across 5 continents – Asia, North America, Europe, Africa and Australia.

Is this the first time you visited the Philippines? How did you find out about the BDM102?

Yes, taking part in BDM102 in 2010 was my first trip to Philippines. I am a moderator with SGRunners – an online running forum in Singapore where like-minded runners (local and overseas) exchange info, tips, advices on running and other sporting disciplines like triathlon, ironman. In 2009, a member posted about BDM102 2009 in the Overseas Competitive Running thread. As I’m in charge of Race Review, I approached him to do a review of the race. After the review, I became interested in running the event.

Why did you join the BDM102 Ultramarthon? How many times have you ran an ultramarathon?

I wanted to test if I can complete such a long distance in hot weather. It was my 11th attempt at running an ultra but my 9th successful completion.

Is it difficult to do the ultramarathon? What were your preparations (in terms of psychological, fitness and logistical)?

Yes, it is very difficult to do ultramarathons. There are a lot of unknowns, especially if you are not a local in the area. The arduous training I went through during the Army training played a big part in my successful completion of BDM102. The support team also played a big part as my nutritional aspects can be fulfilled, as no one would be able to complete such a hard race on their own.

How was your BDM102 run? What were the difficult moments? Were there situations that might have led you to give up?

I was happy with just completing BDM102. There were difficult moments indeed. Once at around 4am where I felt so sleepy – and I almost took the wrong road had the marshals not shouted at me. The other time was when I didn’t met my target of covering 56km within 7 hours – BDM102 was my “training run” for Two Oceans Marathon – a 56km ultramarathon in South Africa with a cut-off time of 7 hours. But luckily, my mind was strong enough to push on till the end.

Unforgettable moments?

The last 2kms was simply awesome, especially when I know I could meet my goal of completing it within 17hours. I somehow gathered enough energy to run the last 2 km with 30secs to spare!

Insights on the whole BDM102 event? How does the BDM102 differ from those you have joined in other countries? Are there noticeable differences with Filipino runners and how races are organized here compared in other countries?

Before the race, I was lamenting on why there was only 1 aid station and I had to rely on the support vehicle. In an ultra, if you want to share a support vehicle, then you must find runners with the same pace as you, which is hard. Otherwise, it might become difficult for the faster runner, the slower runner, and even more tough on the support crew.

BDM102 was different from other ultras I took part in that the runners had to rely on their own support vehicle about 90% of the time. (Support from the other 10% came from the 50km aid station, the other support vehicles as well as volunteers/marshals along the route.) It was really tough for runners that come from other provinces and foreign participants. There was no significant differences between Filipino runners & their support crew and runners/support crew from other countries. Somehow, they all know how difficult it was to run an ultra, and never stop to give encouragement and logistical support when asked.

As for organising of BDM102, it would not be fair to compare to other road races of similar distance as the only one that’s comparable would be Comrades Marathon – a 90km road race in South Africa, that attracted 12,000 runners in 2009 and had big sponsors and financial powers to have full road closure, 12-hours TV coverage and 46 aid stations along the entire route, etc.

Kelly refilling at the support vehicle, BDM102

TNF100 (Baguio City)

How did you find out about the TNF100? How is trail running different from regular runs?

I found out about TNF100 Philippines through Facebook. In road races, although the race can go up and down gentle or steep slopes, the surface is generally flat and stable. Trail running is totally different from road races like BDM102, Comrades and Two Oceans because for trail running, it is conducted usually in the woods or forested area. Such areas may have undulating terrain, with different running surface and unpredictable weather. It can be muddy, slippery, rocky, full of roots, big stones where you had to jump, etc. Sometimes, you even had to wade across water bodies. These makes running much tougher.

Can you tell us about your experience during the TNF100? Isn’t it too soon to run another ultra after BDM102? What happened and why DNF?

After BDM102, I completed Two Oceans 56km Marathon on 3 Apr in South Africa. It may seem too soon to attempt TNF100, considering that I will be running the Comrades Marathon on 30 May. I had no regrets though as TNF100 Philippines was a tune-up / test run for my TNF125 Canada in Jul/Aug 2010. What happened was that I had difficulty in catching my breadth while going up. My legs could climb but my lungs went out of oxygen and I felt dizzy.

After resting for 30mins, I continued but had to rest for another 15mins after a short stretch. By then, Francis caught up with me and gave me a pill to counter my dizziness. The medic also came and assisted me to the next aid station where he took my pulse and gave me oxygen. By then, I decided to bail out cos I was afraid I might feel dizzy at night. But after resting for about 30mins, I decided that I was okay to push on.

I continued after the aid station at John Hay but was told that as I had taken oxygen, I would be disqualified even if I had completed the distance. I was kind of low morale and stopped for good. I slept at the check point until 6am before making my way back to base camp on foot.

Despite being DNF, what can you say about that race? Is it your toughest race to date?

What can I say about the race except that it was awesome! That’s why I love to run trails rather than road races because of the wonderful scenery! It was very beautiful out in the wilderness, especially when you go higher and higher up. Definitely one of the toughest race I had run.

However, I must admit that I was very disappointed in seeing so many empty gel packets, water bottles strewn along the trail. I hope the race organiser can impose strict rules to runners not to litter along the route. Mother earth gave us such nice trails to run and we need to protect it.

At the BDM102 finish line. CLICK TO ENLARGE

Will you join a future edition of the TNF100?

Certainly! In fact, TNF100 Philippines was my 2nd TNF race registered. I registered my 1st TNF race, TNF125 Canada in Jan 2010. The race will be held on 31 Jul/1 Aug in Canada. I hope to come back to complete TNF100 Philippines next year.

Any advice for the aspiring ultramarathoner/trail runner or for newbie runners out there?

For taking part in ultras, my advice is to do time-based training as compared to distance-based training. A lot of newbies are obsessed with clocking xxx km per week as part of their training. Personally, I do my training based on time-based and how I feel when I run. If I had recovered from my previous run and felt fresh, I will push myself harder. Otherwise, I will take it as a run to enjoy and relax myself. As for trail running, well, you have to go run in the trail! It would be very difficult to do a trail race without having run on such surface before.Similar Posts:

• Francis Hortelano’s 10 life lessons from the BDM102 ultramarathon
• Supporting the Bataan Death March Ultramarathon 2010
• Bataan Death March 160K gallery
• Runner Interview: Blas Tiangco, Part 1 of 2
• Interview: Francis Randy Hortelano, Ultramarathon runner, part 2 of 2

Francis Hortelano during the BDM102

By the way, this runner finished, among the few, the TNF100 in Baguio last Sunday. He will be sharing his insights on that punishing race soon here in FitandRun.Info.

Running the Path of our Heroes: The BDM102 2010

1. Ultra running is about endurance with wisdom

If one’s personality is addicted to speed and quick results, one is to likely fail in ultra running that mandatorily requires lots of patience and perseverance.

2. Complaining won’t work

If one begins to curse the dark, it will only respond, “it’s because you’re headlamp or flashlight is not bright enough.”

If one begins to scream at the stray dogs, they can only bark louder, “this is our territory, respect us.”

If one begins to curse the sizzling sun, it will only shout, “my task is to shine, yours is to run.”

If one begins to complain about the uphills and downhills, both will chorus, “we don’t have a choice, we were created this way.”

If one complains on uncooperative muscles, they’ll scream, “common, give us time, we are adjusting slowly, we are alien to this experience.”

If one may complain about his body, it will revolt, “so do I.”

If one complains about the sand that intrudes into his shoes, it will shout, “whoever told you to wear a highly ventilated shoes in a lahar area.”

If one complains about the dust, all the more, the blinding dust will fly right into his face and taunt, “why didn’t you bring a mask anyway?”

If one complains about the speeding vehicles, the drivers will only yell, “this is our work, yours is but a luxurious hobby, give way.”

The ultra marathon then ends with an ultra-complainathon.

3. Be realistic. Deal with what is in your hands.

The sun, the sand, the road, the dark etc. are beyond one’s control. But preparing well will definitely mitigate their adverse impact on one’s run. The body eventually adjusts.

4. You can only beat yourself.

You can only compete with yourself. If you set your eyes on others, that’s your end. You will not enjoy your run. Your ego will keep bothering you. Your pride will scream, will shout, will nag. Your muscles become stiff. You become cranky to all. You will frown all the way, aged, and then finish the race. What a race that was! Instead of victorious feelings, you are unhappy in the end.

5. Enjoy the run

There’s no way to go but enjoy. Anything difficult becomes easier when it is enjoyable.

6. Focus. Concentrate.

Take each step at a time. Slow down in front of churches and pray to God for safety. Only think of uplifting thoughts.

7. Trust

Running an ultra is initially impossible. With trust in the self, others, and God, you will be surprised how immense your physical and inner power is. You will be supported by fellow runners and their support crew. You will discover a lot of kind people. You will treasure every minute. You will value your body. You will be greatful with your life.

8. Train

Training need not be stressful. As the body adjusts to increasing kilometers, there’ll be pain. As they say, pain is mandatory but sorrow is optional. You may train with others but never rely on them. You are fully accountable to your own training.

9. Run for a good cause

The BDM is one good, great, and ultimate running destination for the strong yet humble runners.

10. Thank and Give Back

Offer a sincere prayer, thanks, to all the organizers, your supporters, the locals, and God for making you reach the finish line.Similar Posts:

• Interview: Francis Randy Hortelano, Ultramarathon runner, part 2 of 2
• Experiencing Hell in Heaven: Francis Hortelano’s TNF100 2010 experience, Part 1 of 2
• Interview: Francis Randy Hortelano, Ultramarathon runner, part 1 of 2
• Help Anthony Mariano run his first marathon and get to help Pinoy schoolchildren
• Experiencing Hell in Heaven: Francis Hortelano’s TNF100 2010 experience, Part 2 of 2

Francis Randy Hortelano during the BDM102

FaR: How was your BDM102 run? What were the difficult moments? Were there situations that might have led you to give up?

FRH: When d-day came. I had an ultra-mediocre aim: finish a little over 50KM and that’s it. I can’t afford to push further since I was in-charge of an important office activity the following day. Hence, I couldn’t afford injury, much less, get so tired that I can’t even walk to the event venue.

With the hard and painful lessons I learned from the test-run, Condura and Century, I managed to tame my feet during the first 50KM. I ran slowly yet steady. True to being a mental-sports, I managed to crush my fears of running alone in the dark, doubting myself and being competitive. I couldn’t care less if I was the last runner. I was merely enjoying every stride with the overwhelming support of fellow runners and support crew. Upon reaching my initial aim, 55-60KM, I was already celebrating, overly satisfied of breaking my own record. Nevertheless, I was also experiencing my second wind. Oh, God! where did it all come from?

The support crew of Titanium Runner (TR) who likewise adopted me were all excellent. TR’s mom was such a constant cheer. Estan (ahem, that’s FaR) and kuya were not just generously giving out water, gatorade and offering food but their words of encouragements uplifted the weary spirit to the nth power. Our manong driver can’t also be outdone. He managed to be  an alert zombie all night and defied sleep the following day. The other support crew and fellow runners were all out in their support too. I was so high in the midst of all these kind people. Even the poor selling some fruits and water along the Roman high way only made me prouder as a Pinoy Runner.

Anak, halika, buhusan kita ng tubig.

She didn’t even accept my offer of payment afterwards. My heart melted,

…galingan mo. Kaya mo yan. Ingat sa daan

were echoing in my ears. I would have easily dismissed the kindness of my friends and all people who naturally cared for my welfare but experiencing unlimited and unconditional support from people I’ve never known was too horribly-humbling and sweet.

True, even if I would have wanted to quit with the thoughts of work already flooding my consciousness, these people have provided the much-needed strength and fortitude to continue.

FaR: Unforgettable moments?

FRH: The feeling of enormous safety, strength, patience, endurance and tolerance to pain, sun, sand and gravel allowed me to reach the finish line. Winning the battle of the mind is what makes me sentimental everytime I look back. It’s an indelible memory telling myself this everytime I wish to surrender,

…you are not alone in this journey. Whatever you are going through is what your fellow runners have experienced or are experiencing with you. If you just bear a little longer, slowly but surely, you are guaranteed to reach the finish line.

Since I conditioned myself not to be too tired, I dreaded the thought of consuming all my energy. So I’ve been pleading extra support from above everytime I pass all His sacred houses along the journey. Asking help is not my usual self. I’ve always prided myself of being self-sufficient. Self-reliant. Self-contained but BDM is an ultimate ego-breaking experience and discovered how low my self-trust is. I thought I was confident enough but far from it. I briefly panicked for help when told time was running out. My fellow runners were already exhausting all their energy to beat precious time fastly ticking away. But where does aid really come from? I was already running for 16 hours. 10 hours of which is under the mercilessly 41 degrees of heat. I’ve almost consumed all hydration and food available. No sleep. Tired. I sat down and removed my shoes. I can’t. I can’t anymore. I can’t afford to be absent was an automatic mantra or an easy escape to the unfathomable process I willingly plunged into. Just as my doubting-self almost won, TR exclaimed,

c’mon, you are almost there and then rest afterwards. The cut-off time is maliciously smiling at this point. I told you so, you can’t.

All of a sudden, another wave of energy came in. Oh yea, to this day, I still couldn’t figure out where it was coming from. I laced my shoes once more and never allowed other thoughts to exploit my mind. I just ran and ran. Then a fellow runner, GBM, cheering everyone on the course, let’s party, let’s party. Tears of joy. Tears of thanks. Tears of relief got shielded by my shades. No need to panic. There is a lot of time to spare and I just passed 100KM. True to my covenant with my body, I slowed down and walked to the finish line. Afterwhich, I didn’t want to move anymore. I was begging for muscle recovery and be ready for work the following day.

Francis Randy Hortelano at the finish line of BDM102

FRH: It is so easy to slide back to comfort zones when one feels the discomfort and pain. But how does one really know when he already exceeded his limit if he does not push further? This is BDM. It is self-discovery in action. You can only be a better person after this event.

FaR: What are your future plans? Will you run in future ultramarathons?

FRH: Honestly, I was just begging for just the finish line please and even for just once. I stopped joining races after the BDM.  But probably, I’ll join the Philippine Association of Ultrarunners. Let’s see. If permitted, I may join another ultra soon.

FaR: Any advice for the aspiring ultramarathoner or for newbie runners out there?

FRH: Running is a calling of sorts. We run to be physically fit, to test our limits, to discover ourselves. Running is like a vocation.

We need to dedicate some precious time for training to mitigate risks. We spend precious pesos. We adopt a relatively healthy lifestyle. And meet all sorts of opposition, especially one that come from our love ones or closest friends.

You are just wasting time. Money. Energy. Are you crazy? What’s the problem with you?

These and more will be the usual song from those who care.

From a docile kid, you could be labeled stubborn instead of tenacious. Courting death instead of life. Be prepared to be criticized. And all these thoughts will visit you in doing ultras.  But remember, you have a mind and a more powerful God. Be sensible though when to train. When to stop. When to push. The guidance of a  sports doctor will be of great help.

FaR: If you can add others that might be interesting for readers related to the ultramarathon, so much the better:

FRH: Running the road of life will never take away your energy. It is ready to re-fill you upon reaching  your limit for the day. Oh yes, running the road of life will bring you death. Death to old patterns of self-defeating thoughts—I can’t  to I can.

Running will make you win. Stronger. Better. Your thoughts can make the rest of the difference. Run for a cause. The BDM will not just make you prouder of yourself. You will also intensely feel pure gratitude to the valiant countrymen who offered their life for the freedom we are experiencing today. Run well before running runs away from you! It is never a waste when you invest for your own fitness in the first place.

Most of all, enjoy your runs. If eventually, you’ll discover that running isn’t for you, then find out what can genuinely bring smile and satisfaction on your face. The point is: LIVE a happy life.

Check out also MiracleCello’s post on Francis.Similar Posts:

• Making it to the Bataan102 Ultramarathon finish line
• Runner Interview: Blas Tiangco, Part 2 of 2
• Runner Interview: Blas Tiangco, Part 1 of 2
• Supporting the Bataan Death March Ultramarathon 2010
• Interview: Francis Randy Hortelano, Ultramarathon runner, part 1 of 2

Francis at KM00 for BDM102

FitandRun (FaR): Can you give a short background of yourself?

Francis Randy Hortaleza (FRH): I am a courageous soul who loves to learn by experimenting through the outdoors, like traveling and lately running. I may not be the fastest learner but good enough to unwillingly merit monikers from people who care and care less: Flash, Northstar, Dalai, Bro and FR. I can be a meticulous planner but likewise surrender to fate when things don’t materialize as I wanted.  That would explain why I can also be a sign person. A newbie mountaineer but running took a front stage after my induction with AMCI (FaR: AMCI Mountaineering Club, Inc).

By the way, more than anything else, I am more remembered by people with my plant-based food and baons wherever I go. They can have amnesia of everything about me but never what’s on my plate.

How can you run with such? Where do you get your protein? Ha? Are you afraid of getting hungry, why all the food in your bag? I’d like you to meet, hmmm….uhmmmm… my colleague who only eats fruits and veggies.

There you go.

FaR: How is it being a vegetarian runner? Does being one make a difference? Advantages and limitations?

FRH: I may not be in the pink of health all the time and my endurance level may not be consistently high, even then, my fitness level could have been worse if I am not a lacto-vegetarian for almost two decades now. To some, bringing baon is a monstrous hassle. Once it becomes natural though, no big deal at all. I believe that each individual is accountable to their health and happiness. I feel fit and happy with this meal. I will only quit otherwise. I am comfortable with what I eat and equally comfortable with others’ choices. Since as a kid, respect has been emphasized by my elders. If it can’t really be avoided, the dining table must not be a battleground between the consumers of veggies and the other living species.

What I only wish to demystify is the notion that veggie runners can’t do hard-core activities such as the BDM, mountaineering or other strenous endevors. I am no elephant, carabao or horse. Our common denominator is not speed, patience or endurance. It is just in eating leaves.

FaR: Have you always been active? Why running? Can you give a brief background of your running history?

FRH: Hahah. Nice question. The scars all over my body are loud proof of how active I am from mountain climbing, spelunking, biking, skating, among others. Include my visits to sports doctors and subsequent therapy sessions!

Why running? I had been passionately playing some racquet sports but when I had rotator cuff tendinities, my range of motion was limited. I had therapy for some time but never got back to my best shots. I ended up feeling frustrated and wasn’t enjoying my games. So I took it as a sign to move to another sport, mountaineering!  I passed by a mountaineering shop one day and saw an open-climb poster. I got curious, asked and then joined. That climb got me bruises but I vowed to properly prepare for future treks.

I enrolled in a Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC) that required trainees to pass a 15-KM run in two hours (or 8 minutes per KM). That was  over 8 months ago and did my first kilometer at Ultra. I was such a loser and finished it at around 14 minutes. But our training program was designed in such a way that even non-runners can eventually make it. In my batch, all of us  eventually passed the 15-KM test.

FaR: Does running complement being a mountaineer or the other way around?

FRH: Oh yes, a lot! Running provides the endurance that mountaineers need and the other way around. Without an enduring spirit, one will only have endless struggle along running courses and mountain trails.

FaR: Why did you join the BDM102 Ultramarthon?

FRH: After the BDM, a non-runner friend cornered me and whispered,

I heard that you ran 102 KMs. I am your friend. Do you have any problem? Why are you committing suicide?

My friend was so concerned and I knew it wasn’t a joking remark. I quipped,

there are battles that only I could figure out. BDM is one of them.

And assured that I am mentally sane. When we parted, I had the best laugh of my life.

Running the BDM to the uninitiated is just too terrifying. Mind blowing. Incomprehensible. Why? Why not? It can be done by sane humans. If it can’t be, then there should be no ultras at all. There are a few who dare try.

I am one of those who merely wanted to experiment, simply needed some affirmation to test my limits. I deliberately sought to break my comfort zones and needed some shaking to break some self-imposed barriers. In short, I just wanted to see what is beyond me– the usual, already complacent self. I wanted to shatter the ugly internal sounds of: I can’t. I can’t. I can’t.

Seriously though, I must be thirsty for some sense of achievement. My life may have plateaued to a great extent and was in dire need for an interesting experience. The been-there-done-that psyche has not been helping me at all. I took it as a sign to explore. I don’t sulk in an empty corner who will just allow things to happen. Oh yes, I am always the explorer for answers. The BDM came as a timely solution to my waning enthusiasm.

The runner early morning at the Bataan leg of BDM102

FRH: It is never easy but definitely making it is possible. As long as you enjoy what you’re doing, then everything seemingly impossible becomes possible. Looking back now, the real ultra battle is in the mind. No matter how you train and supported properly, if determination is weak, you will  surrender to the sun, the sand, the gravels, the ascents, the cars, the smoke, the body.

I joined the 50-KM test run in January with the sheer joy of experimenting. Like a little child escaping from his parents, I sneaked through Mariveles, Bataan on a bus with some few cash, an ID, fuel belt and tons of courage. I aimed to just try and if I can’t, I planned to quickly hop on the bus back to Manila. My mediocre aim wasn’t granted. I later found myself pushing to the finish line. No pain, no real gain. I had my shares of walks and runs, of aches and low spirits but mentally-focused on every stride. With much patience, every step and every breath were valued. With the big hearts of fellow runners and support crew who were all strangers to me, I reached the finish line. Briefly, I could hardly walk but I understood that my muscles were slowly adjusting to the new distance. This also made me realize that I should not have ran the uphill climb. I dearly paid for my speed tendencies. (FaR: kilometer 4 – 7 is an uphill climb).

I joined the Condura full marathon soon after. Again, I was conditioning my muscles to run slowly on a steady pace but somewhere along the way, the stubborn tendencies (of speed) appeared almost automatically. Again, I paid for it. I had my shares of all sorts of bodily aches and pains. O ano, you ran again?, would be a casual comment of the therapists when they treat me. But like the supportive sports doc, they could only provide much needed help. Hahah. I also did the half-mary in the Century-run.

Read Part 2Similar Posts:

• Interview: Francis Randy Hortelano, Ultramarathon runner, part 2 of 2
• Experiencing Hell in Heaven: Francis Hortelano’s TNF100 2010 experience, Part 1 of 2
• I want to run, seriously
• Runner Interview: Blas Tiangco, Part 1 of 2
• Francis Hortelano’s 10 life lessons from the BDM102 ultramarathon

Under the heat of the sun during a run in Bataan

During the Cebu City Marathon 2010 and Condura Run, I coincidentally photographed Blas Tiangco and it was in this circumstance that he invited me to photograph also the runners of the then upcoming Bataan Death March Ultramarathon (BDM102) by being part of his support crew. I readily accepted.

Check this two part interview I did with the 31 year old Blas. To date, he has finished five marathons, finished 81st in the BDM102 and blogs on life, work and running at Midnight Pencil.

Part 1

FaR: How was your BDM102 run? What were the difficult moments? Were there instances that might have led you to give up?

BT: I enjoyed my entire BDM102 run! The only thing that I hated about it is the heat of the sun in this El Niño weather phenomenon. It really felt like I was being baked along the road and it really weakened me especially during the 60k up to the 90k distance. Did the thought of giving up cross my mind? NO. Never. I did mention something to the support team when I was taking a break, but it was only meant as a joke. Deep inside, I knew that I was determined to see this through.

I kept reminding myself that I was running for the memory of our fallen heroes in WWII. I was running in memory of the men who have influenced my life the most and have passed away. I was running because the road gives me a sense of serenity in spite of the heat, pollution or the fast vehicles that were passing by. And yes… I was motivated to finish the race because a day before the run a good friend baked no fudge brownies for me that I left in my refrigerator back in Manila! I am determined to taste them and eat them when I get back home from the ultramarathon!!!!

FaR: Unforgettable moments?

BT: One, singing the Philippine national anthem before the start of the race. I felt a tear roll down my eye as I sang the lines …

Duyan ka ng magiting. Sa manlulupig, di ka pasisiil.

It’s translated that my country is a place of the valiant, and though conquerors come and go it will not be overcome. I have never cried singing our national anthem before. I guess reading the history of the Death March at KM 0 and envisioning what it was like for the soldiers to walk 159 kilometers just made me appreciate more the sacrifices that they made for our freedom.

Two, running through the hilly parts of the route in the dark. It was my first time to run in the dark using a flashlight. It felt great to hear the sounds of nature such as the crickets, to see the stars shine brightly above and to feel the rush of blood flowing in my veins.

Three, to have my picture taken at the finish line with my mother. I felt like I just graduated from school and that my parents were there to cheer for me!

On the lighter side…

I was really looking for a place to crap and at around 7am, I asked one of the women in one of the houses at KM 55 and then they allowed me to use their bathroom. I was carrying this load with me for more than an hour and just kept looking and looking since I needed the clean water to clean my stuff and all that, and I also didn’t want to just do it in a corner of a tree. At that time, it was already daylight.

Blas making it to the BDM102 flanked by his mom and the Bald Runner

FaR: Insights on the whole BDM102 event?

BT: About a month ago, I realized that the cliche that life is a race and a marathon is true. Having finished my first ultramarathon, I now see that even though each person has a different race and calling in life; we still have to face death at the end of it all. Death can either be final for most of us, or death can leave a memory that reminds other people around us and even a nation that there is something worth dying for. The difference is in the choices we make now towards ensuring that what we are doing makes a difference in the eternal memory of our loved ones left behind.

Another is that though runners run alone or with fellow runners, they cannot do it alone. Without the ample support team of people handing out water, without the encouragement from friends coming through mobile phones or even listening through music via MP3 players — these things make or even break a runner.

That said, we all have a role to play in this race called life. Like you, you have chosen to take the role of a photographer documenting events as you see it unfolding and trying to freeze time in the pixels of your camera. For me, my role is to keep showing others that if I can do it, so can they. If I can change something in my life, so can they. If I can rise above my own problems and challenges, so can others. I hope that somehow I am able to do this as this relates to the final insight I want to share related to a song.

On the 60th kilometer, I listened to music to help encourage me to run further and faster. The song The Shadow Proves the Sunshine of Switchfoot was playing and the heat was already getting to me. In my personal blog, I have been very vocal about my faith in God. It is what sustains me. It is what helps me run further. But I admit that I am not perfect either and I feel that I am not the best representative of the faith that I profess in. I am easily angered. I am easily led astray and betrayed by my own thoughts. So while I was running listening to this song, the sunlight that was shining down made me see my own shadow that seemed to be outrunning me. Thus, like the shadow of my runs I can never outrun my past but need to face it head on to be in the present. The sunshine proves and brings light to everything that I am and not. Yet at the same time, these things are what makes me better at moving forward in life as I know that even with the greatest of limitations can come forth the greatest of victories.

FaR: What are your future plans? Will you run in future ultramarathons?

BT: I am gearing up for one marathon each month starting July till December, in preparation for the next BDM which I heard will have a BDM150 and only 50 will be selected for it. I hope to be one of the 50 contenders. I would like to finish that one first before joining other ultramarathons outside the country. In fact, I would like to do one road ultramarathon and one trail ultramarathon each year starting 2011 aside from doing at least seven marathons a year. Seriously though, I would really want to make our country proud and win one ultramarathon event abroad!

FaR: If you can add others that might be interesting for readers related to the ultramarathon, so much the better.

BT: 70,000 soldiers mainly Filipinos walked the stretch of 159 kilometers from Mariveles, Bataan to Capas, Tarlac during WWII that became known as the Death March. Only 40,000 of them made it alive and bore children and raised families who have third generation children some of whom are now runners here and abroad. Of the runners that did the BDM102, there were a few who were direct descendants of those who toiled the heat of the sun and the battering of the Japanese. And of those remaining alive, most of the Filipino war veterans living in the Philippines barely have access to the basic necessities of life such as ample medical coverage.

I hope and pray that this ultramarathon will not become “just another ultramarathon”. I hope that we will keep remembering the sacrifices that our brethren did in the name of freedom. I am also hoping that somehow in the years ahead, this ultramarathon would come to benefit these war veterans or even other families or disenfranchised groups in Filipino society.

FaR: What advice can you give to aspiring ultramarathoners and other runners especially those who are just starting?

BT: One, have a goal. Any goal is better than having no goal. In any aspect in life, one needs to have one. For example, when I started joining formal road races, I only wanted to be healthier and feel better about myself. That all changed and became better at it. So this leads to my next point.

Two, make your goals specific and optimistic. Mine were not specific at all before. I just wanted to be healthier. But one can be healthy even with minimal exercise! Thus, I went back to my childhood memories. I suddenly recalled that I wanted to join a marathon. It took another good friend, Moses Mendoza, who kept sharing his passion for running that re-ignited the spark of doing a marathon for me. Having specific goals helps one create a training program to follow. Furthermore, having a goal helps one ensure that we keep to the program on most days of the month.

I added that one has to be optimistic because along the way, there will come opposition. It comes in strange forms. It can come from your family. It can come from your closest friends. It can come from your colleagues. Before running became an in thing, most people think runners as crazy individuals who have nothing more to do with their time. And until now, majority of people still think that way. Don’t ever let that get to you! Just keep running and keep at it!

There’s Takbo.ph, an online Filipino community of runners out to support runners and newbies! Join the group! Join the weekly runs! Do whatever it takes to just make it out on the road! So you only managed to do ten minutes of running this week? That’s great news! So up the ante to 15 minutes next week until you reach 30 minutes in about a month or so. Just don’t ever let other people bring you down no matter what because most of these people will never understand what it feels like to run. And most of them are just envious of people who finally manage to live healthier.

My third and final advice is this …. make running an avenue to clear your thoughts and feelings. Whenever I feel bad and down, I have a tendency to eat more and just sulk or stay in bed or even just go around walking around the mall. But I’ve discovered that I feel much better after doing a 30 minute run than going around the mall. So when one is angry, put on those running shoes and run as fast as you can!!! And when you’re happy, put it on and share your joy with your friend who could run along with you. When you feel depressed and the rain is literally and figuratively around you, lace up and feel the rain drench you as your soul feels the soothing balm of water on your skin and the cool breeze nurturing your spirit and run slowly. Do whatever it takes to run, to walk or even crawl. So when you reach a crossroad in your life that you need to think through, think it through while running on the road. Some of the best ideas I have at work are born out of my runs. At the end of the day, it’s a great thing to be able to manage one’s emotions and also live a healthy lifestyle.Similar Posts:

• Making it to the Bataan102 Ultramarathon finish line
• Runner Interview: Blas Tiangco, Part 1 of 2
• Interview: Francis Randy Hortelano, Ultramarathon runner, part 2 of 2
• Interview: Kelly Lim, Ultramarathon Runner, BDM102 & TNF100 2010
• Searing heat beats on Bataan Death March Ultramarathoners

Blas Tiangco on the road in Bataan

During the Cebu City Marathon 2010 and Condura Run, I coincidentally photographed Blas Tiangco and it was in this circumstance that he invited me to photograph also the runners of the then upcoming Bataan Death March Ultramarathon (BDM102) by being part of his support crew. I readily accepted.

Check this two part interview I did with the 31 year old Blas. To date, he has finished five marathons, finished 81st in the BDM102 and blogs on life, work and running at Midnight Pencil.

Fit and Run (FaR): Can you give a short background of yourself?

Blas Tiangco (BT): I am pesco-vegetarian for almost 10 years now and I work as a business continuity planner/risk manager for a business process outsourcing company in Metro Manila. My passions in life include teaching, traveling, writing and lately… RUNNING!

FaR: Have you always been active? Why running? Can you give a background of your running history?

BT: Active? Hmmm, I guess on and off thing. I love the outdoors and climbing mountains. I love the feel of the sun, especially during the early parts of the day [but not the noontime sun!] and I just enjoy the sounds of nature too.

My mother was most instrumental in my running history. I remember very well the first time she bought me my first pair of Nike running shoes in 1988. I was in fourth grade and Nike was already all the rage back then during my childhood. I saw the print and television ads for the shoe and kept dreaming that somehow, someone would give me that pair of running shoes. When she returned from her trip to the USA, I was pleasantly surprised that she bought a pair of running shoes for me, slipped it on immediately and kept running around with playmates the entire day! The best part about those shoes was not that it was the latest model, nor because it was Nike — but my mother was sensitive to what I wanted without me telling her.

Over the years, I still kept running in school up until college. I trained a few months with the UP Track and Field team but gave it up because the discipline was just too much for me. I didn’t like the fact that I had to wake up early and train in the morning and evening. From then on, I was just doing leisurely runs instead of training hard for road races and competitions. I also dropped out of the UP Track Team training pool. When I started working, I totally forgot about running and took up mountaineering instead. It still required me to do runs, but not as much as running for a marathon.

Fit and Run (FaR): Does being a pesco vegetarian affect one’s running?

Blas Tiangco (BT): Being a pesco vegetarian (fish and vegetables) indeed affect one’s running though I would like to qualify it further. About two decades ago, people say that performance is 80% running and 20% nutrition. Now the thinking has reversed and that nutrition is more important to follow than the actual exercise program. I don’t really know if this is true, but I can tell you that I feel stronger now than before I changed my diet. I think the one thing that I enjoy about it is that I don’t have to worry too much about eating too much fat since the only fat that I eat comes from fish, which is considered as good fat.

One thing I can share about diets and running, what one eats before a race affect one’s run. It’s best to eat something light before a long run and then eat something heavy just after it. A good combination of carbs and a little protein before running and after running is what one needs.

FaR: You told me about some implants in your leg that you have. What are these?

BT: Ten years back, I had a knee injury in my right leg that affected the anterior cruciate ligament [ACL]. It was a complete tear of the ACL for me and that meant that my knee was now unstable. I had to undergo an operation and at that time, the best solution was to harvest part of the patella and make it into a new ligament. But to keep the new ligament in place, they had to use titanium alloy screws to keep it in place. Thus, I now have titanium implants for the rest of my life.

These implants have permitted me to do running again. Furthermore, I also need to keep running — for the muscles surrounding the knee that put the new ligament in place strong. So in a way, the operation became a blessing as it has allowed me to be in this sport. So far, I do not really feel it affecting my runs. Although during the cold months of December to February, I do notice that my knee tends to stiffen up a bit but there’s no pain and hopefully, none so far in the years ahead.

Pre ultramarathon preparation at KM 0

FaR: Why did you join the BDM102 Ultramarthon?

BT: I joined because it fell on the month of my first road race anniversary year. But as the months inched closer to race date, I started to reflect upon the history of the Bataan Death March. I was reminded of death itself, as the race date fell on the birthday of a good friend who had already passed away. Most of all I was reminded of many verses in the Bible that pertained to running a marathon and running a race to win. All these things, I have written in my blog entry and reminded me that running has become my form of worshiping God, my act of prayer as if each step that I take is like a prayer banging on the earth that goes to heaven and reaches His ears. So all these things are the reasons that made me join. I wanted to know what God has in store for me on the road to the finish line.

FaR: Is it difficult to do the ultramarathon? What were your preparations (in terms of psychological, fitness and logistical)?

BT: Having just finished my first ultramarathon, at 102 kilometers at that — I can say that it is indeed challenging to do an ultramarathon. I detest using the word difficult because it sounds negative. I am a naturally negative person to begin with and it is only my faith in the invisible God that has enabled me to transcend my state of gloom and doom. It is a daily battle, much like it is a daily decision to get out of bed and start walking or running. And the battle of the mind is the first plain that needs to be conquered in preparing for a race; whether it be a short one, like a 10k, a 42k marathon or an ultramarathon.

Preparing for the BDM was challenging too. Working in the night shift and sometimes doing double shift duty [as most part of 2009 I was technically a one-man department], carving out time to run every week seemed nearly impossible. But like I said earlier, the battle of the mind is important to conquer and so I told myself the moment I signed up for the BDM that I will finish that race, and will prepare for it. So I made it a point to put in my journal and calendar certain times of the day each week to run and joined many races in 2009 during weekends too. These helped me stay focused because there’s something magical that goes on during organized road races. The energy is just so positive among fellow runners regardless of one’s speed in finishing the course! I guess that positive energy rubbed on me and that also helped sustain me with my running schedule.

During one of the company sponsored runs that we had, I won first place for the company division! [10 Mile Power Mile Market! Market!] This totally shocked me and my officemates because they were expecting another person to grab it. None of them knew that I was passionate about running and that a week before the race, I just finished my first marathon, in the sweltering heat of summer 2009! [Botak 42k Marathon] That became a shining beacon of hope for me. It made me see that anything is possible. It encouraged me further to just push more and made me more confident about myself.

I guess the hardest part of preparing for an ultramarathon is the strength training program. Most runners don’t like lifting weights. It takes awhile for them to get into this routine. For me, it was the thought that I will be doing the BDM pushed me at least twice a week. Still, I think it was just barely enough to prepare me for the race.

This year, I will definitely up the ante with my strength training program. As for logistics, I learned that no matter how much one prepares for an event — there are things that just comes up. Friends that suddenly aren’t available to help out, other budget concerns like stretching one’s budget to make it to the next payout. Still, I think I would have to go back to my first line of thought — that the first battlefield is in the mind. I said to myself that I will join this race, I will finish this race and I will finish it strong.

Part 2 in following post.Similar Posts:

• Runner Interview: Blas Tiangco, Part 2 of 2
• Making it to the Bataan102 Ultramarathon finish line
• I’m back to running again!
• Relieved that I finished the race w/o pain!
• Wrapping up my first week of couch-to-5k running plan