Date with history

Cebu will be bracing for its date with history when the Cebu Sinulog Marathon finally gets under way on February 18, at the Fort San Pedro Plaza Independencia. Every body's excited. Well it's been 17 long years since we had a full marathon, when Cebu Executive Runners Club president Roel Militar offered me to take the task as race director, I declined at first as I'm up to my neck doing a lot of things at the same time. When preparations were going nowhere "nakonsensiya ako," since I'm also the founding president of the club. The persistence of the members also made me change my mind. Imagine past president Judge Gabby Ingles sentencing me to "no running for life" while Dr. Vic Verallo threatening to cut off my leg. So despite my heavy load I said yes and there's no turning back. We encountered several hitches in the early part of the preparation but at this point, it's all systems go.

Vertek and Bernard

In an international marathon like New York City or Boston, organizers pay top runners like the Kenyans to make the race prestigious. Although we don't offer big prizes, the field has become impressive with the participation of Athens Olympian Vertek Buenvista and Milo Marathon Manila elimination champ Bernardo Desamito. The race was originally intended for local runners to experience a full marathon but we cannot also prevent veterans or national runners from participating. Support from the different government agencies, clubs and individuals, is also encouraging. As I write this column, karate instructor-turned biker Wennie Abbu Dela Rosa who is currently vice-president of the SRP Bikers has volunteered 50 bikers to assist the race. Wennie is a friend from way back my karate days at the Commando Self-Defense Shorin Ryu.

Dream Team

To ensure the success of the marathon, I've solicited the services of perhaps the best athletics officials in the city. Joining me at the officiating are Sacred Heart School for Boys Prescing Capangpangan, UC Track coaches Natnat Villasor and Ilde Banzon SWU coach Honor Corpin and Hall of Fame awardee Joe Deresas. With these able assistants, I'm confident we could pull this one through with flying colors.

Marathon Sked

On Friday February 16, a carbo-loading party will be held for the full-marathoners at the Sugangan Restaurant at Llorente St., infront of Hi-Precision Medical Center. Race numbers and singlets will be distributed while final briefing will also be held. Remember there will also be a 5K run for joggers and runners who have not trained for the marathon. Registration is still ongoing at the PSC Office at the Cebu City Sports Center, WOW Travel and More at Elizabeth Mall and Casa Ilongga Robinsons Place. By the way HAPPY VALENTINES TO ALL!