Great run

It looks like the Great Lapu-Lapu Run is fast shaping up to be another blockbuster footrace. This early, we have received confirmation of participation from the country’s top runners including former Milo Marathon national record holder Crescenciano Sabal, Atlanta Olympian and six-time Milo Marathon champion Roy Vence, Alquin Bolivar, Rene Desuyo, Eric Panique, Aileen Tolentino and Miscelle Gilbuena. And if he will have the chance, 2009 Sea Games titlist and current marathon national record holder Eduardo “Vertek” Buenavista, might just show up. After hearing stories of the successful staging of the Cebu City Marathon last January, Manila runners want some more of the stuff. Also arriving are the Bald Runner and the Bull Runner. Registration is now on going at the PSC Office at the Cebu City Sports Center, Casa Ilongga, Robinsons Place, Columbia at SM City Northwing, Runnr, Ayala Center and at the Lapu-Lapu Tourism Office beside the City Hall. Of course, the biggest draw is an all- expense paid trip to the 2011 Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon for the Filipino champions (male and female), Cebu Pacific is flying the winners to Hong Kong according to Agnes Gupalor of Cebupac. Marathon chair Hembler Mendoza who is also general manager of Waterfront Hotel Mactan said, the winners may even be booked at the Hong Kong Shangrila, “sosyal”!

More sponsors

More support is pouring in for the race. The latest addition is the Imperial Palace which will also be the turning point of the 10K event. Runners will have a chance to see one of Cebu’s most beautiful resort hotels. The other sponsors are presentors, Gatorade and Timex, Alaska, Rudy Project, Metrografix, Casa Ilongga, Columbia, Res Toe Run Runnr, Finish Line, and Adidas. Media partners are The Freeman, Sunstar and Cebu Daily News. Deadline of registration is April 13.

Aboitiz race 2 reduce challenge

Just as I was checking the airline schedules, my phone rang. It was Aboitiz’ Therese “Gonzo” Gonzales who was asking if I could organize a run for the Aboitiz Group on May 2. If you recall, I promised myself I’ll take it easy this year and already targeted a vacation in Bangkok. But how could I say no to Gonzo and Carol Ballesteros? More so, to Aboitiz top honcho Jon Ramon Aboitiz who studied in Iloilo City. And besides, the run is for a good cause. Aboitiz recently launched a campaign among its group of companies to reduce fuel, electricity, water, carbon and even a person’s weight. In no time I visualized a route that will start and end at the Persimmon in M.J. Cuenco, Mabolo. Persimmon is Aboitiz’ latest condo project. Keep tuned for details.

Where’s Leszl?

Ever wondered where Leszl Gitaruelas is cooling her heels in the oven-hot weather? Well, just after the Cebu City Marathon, Leszl flew to Johore Baru in Malaysia. Leszl, Cebu’s erstwhile queen of the road is working in a gym as PRT and aerobics instructor.