'Run to the Max Series 3' set Oct. 10

CEBU, Philippines - Holiday Gym and Spa, one of Cebu’s well-respected fitness centers, will stage the “Run To the Max Series 3” with a twist on October 10 at the said gym in Brgy. Banilad, this city.The race carries a concept of “Conquer the Hill, Capture the Flag.”

Unlike in its first two editions when everything was on a flat course, this year’s event will feature an uphill and downhill course.

“There had been several events here which also have an uphill course but you finish na uphill lang talaga. Here, you have to go uphill and then go downhill making it more challenging,” said Team Reborn coach Noy Jopson, one of the race organizers during a press conference yesterday at the Holiday Gym and Spa.

Under this unique scheme, the participants in the premiere 16K division will have to capture a flag each at the second turning point instead of the usual cord to indicate that they have reached the turning point located near Marco Polo Hotel in Nievel Hills.

Carrying a flag while running seems to be an added burden to the runners but it is part of the challenge they have to face.

Runcheck’s Annie Neric assured though that the flags or flaglets they will use are very light.

Aside from the 16K, there will also be an 8K for those who opt to negotiate a shorter uphill route and a 4K for fun runners and beginners.

The 16K and 8K classes will have an open division and for HGS members only.

Cash prizes and gift packs await the top performers of the one-day tilt.

Registration begins today initially at the HGS. Entry fee is pegged at P300 for early birds, while those who will enlist after September 30 will be assessed with P400.

Organizers are setting its deadline for registration 10 days ahead as the participants will get a personalized bib. Better materials for the race bib have been promised by the organizers so runners can keep it as a souvenir after the race.

Aside from running, several sporting events have been lined up to spice up HGS’s fifth year anniversary. These include rowing, wall climbing, indoor tracks, hiphop dancefest and boxing competition. (FREEMAN)