1000 runners get MAD today

CEBU, Philippines – Close to 1,000 runners will get MAD today starting at 5:30 am at the UP Cebu grounds in Lahug.

MAD means ‘Make a Difference’ and is a project of Lahug Barangay Captain Mary Ann De Los Santos.

De Los Santos, who got hooked to running a few months ago, will lead all runners that will compete in the 12K, 6K and 3K races.

Race director Raffy Uytiepo is expecting fast times, specifically in the 12K race, with the presence of Milo Marathon champion Mary Grace De Los Santos from Zamboanga.

Uytiepo pointed out that De Los Santos would be pushed to lengthen her stride because local runners like Madelyn Carter, Leizel Getaruelas and others are itching to stop her from dominating this race. The young runner from Zamboanga City has won all running events she has entered in Cebu City.

The men’s division also looks formidable as well with the Delposo brothers leading the charge, plus Philip Duenas and Guardo brothers in the mix.

Donna Cruz Larrazabal, Heidi Acuña of ABS-CBN and Cebu City Councilor Edgar Labella will be keeping Bgy. Captain Mary De Los Santos company during the race although they may be running in separate categories.

Running clubs like the Cebu Executive Runners Club (CERC), Mandaue Runners Club, Kabangis Runners of Talisay and Prycegas are sending their members to compete, making this event one of the biggest, so far.

Among organizations, the Philippine National Police (PNP), with 250 interns, will be the largest delegation.

The winner in the 12K category will go home P3,000 richer, the second placer will pocket P1,000 and the third placer to tenth placers will get P300 each plus medals.

The first place winner in the 6K race will receive P2,000, second placer gets P1,000 and the third to tenth placers will get P200 each.

There will also be special prizes for the youngest and oldest runner and runners donning unique running gears. – PR (THE FREEMAN)