Timex Cebu Run launched

CEBU, Philippines - The organizers of the Timex 2012 Cebu Run are targeting at least 3,000 fitness buffs to take part in the event set to take place on August 19. The start and finish line is in front of the Cebu Normal University (CNU) along Osmeña Boulevard, this city.The race drew 6,000 entries during its kick-off leg in Manila last January 22. Organized by Runrio of renowned running coach Rio De la Cruz, it was a well-attended event by running aficionados including television personality Piolo Pascual.

De la Cruz said that even though there’s another running event that will take place on that same day, he is confident that they would be able to attract more participants.

“We have been noticed by the quality of our race and the safety [of the runners] is our top priority,” said De la Cruz during the formal launching of the event yesterday at the Cebu Parklane International Hotel. “I am very happy with the development of the sport here in Cebu, sometimes marami pa ngang runners sa Cebu kesa sa Manila.”

De la Cruz will be joined by celebrities and Timex endorsers Anthony Pangilinan, his wife Maricel Laxa and their kids.

“Natutuwa ako that there are so many Cebuanos who are now into a healthy lifestyle,” said the former actress. “Nandito kami to join and promote the race pero aside from it, we also want to encourage runners to make running not only as a fad but as a long term habit.”

The Pangilinan family has been known to be active in running and triathlon races. Testament to that is their four children - Ella, Hannah, Donny and Benjamin - who are all successful in every race they joined even at a very young age.

The race features the 5K, 10K and 16K categories. The top three finishers in the 16K will receive P7,000, P5,000 and P3,500, respectively, plus a loot bag and brand new Timex watches for the champions.

Corresponding cash prizes will also be given to the top three winners in the other categories.

Entry fee is pegged at P600 for 16K, P500 for 10K and P400 for 5K inclusive of singlet, timing tag and snacks.

One may register at the Cebu City Sports Center and at the Timex booth in Ayala Active Zone. For online registration, one may visit www.runrio.com.  - THE FREEMAN