5th CDU Run offers several 'firsts'

CEBU, Philippines – The Cebu Doctors' University-initiated University Run may now be on its fifth year but the organizers are offering several "firsts" to the Cebu running scene come August 15 at CDU grounds in Mandaue City.

These "firsts" are something that will surely be a trend-setter in local running circuit.

For one, it will be the first time in Cebu and perhaps in the entire country that the event features a personalized race bib instead of the usual number bib. Initially, this is offered to the first 500 registrants as announced by the organizers during the press conference at Pino Restaurant in Brgy. Lahug the other night.

More to it, there should never be any duplication of names in each bib since it will also be registered on their system for the results.

Dr. Yong Larrazabal, the forerunner of the University Run and Run For Sight Foundation, said that usually in international events, personalized race bibs could only be availed by the elite runners yet here, everyone will enjoy an equal opportunity to own one. That will be on a first-come-first-serve basis though.

Another first is that each bib is also a "stub" for a snack, bottled water and other samplings from their sponsors at the finish line to ensure a smooth flow of the race.

CDU president Dr. Potenciano Larrazabal, Jr. said that it will also be the first time that the race will be included in the regular events of their school's annual Intramurals. A student of CDU gets a corresponding point depending on their placing in either the 10K, 5K or 3K run. Each point earned will be helpful to their department's overall standings in the Intramurals.

It will also be the first time that Smart Communications, Nature Valley Crunchy Granola and HSBC will be involved in the event.

Smart's Atty. Jane Paredes is very enthusiastic about the CDU Run saying that they will not just be there as a mere sponsor but will also actively participate via the Samahan ng Mananakbo ng Smart (SMS).

Diane Lyn Velasco of Nature Valley added that they also want to add more healthy benefits to runners by introducing their product which is all-natural, no preservatives and safe to eat before and after the race.

Other new features in CDU Run include an iced cold water and Gatorade during the run, an option for a singlet or a t-shirt, a cardio-vascular talk prior to race day and over a hundred items will be raffled off during the awarding ceremonies.

If plans don't miscarry, it could also be the first time that an "inter-club" cheerdance competition will take place after the race.

For the competitive side, cash prizes, medals and other exciting items wil be given away to the top performers.

Registration fee is pegged at P250 for the regular runners and P200 for students.

Entry forms are available at CDU main campus, Sight First Clinic at the Cebu Doctors' Hospital and at the Cebu City Sports Center. (THE FREEMAN)