8th AWUM extracts 350 runners

CEBU, Philippines — A total of 350 brave female long-distance runners will answer the challenge in the eight edition of the All Women Ultra Marathon (AWUM) slated on March 9 at The Terraces of Ayala Center Cebu.

The organizers said that 50-kilometer run will go back to Ayala Center Cebu as its original starting point. Last year's race was started at the Cebu Provincial Capitol grounds.

Race director Willie Estepa said that they have realized that the area inside and around Ayala Center Cebu is an ideal venue for the race.

"We have a more challenging route this time because apart from the usual course in Busay and the three bridges (Mactan, Marcelo Fernan and Cansaga), we also have extended it to MEPZ (Mactan Export Processing Zone) area in Lapu-Lapu City," Estepa said.

AWUM, Cebu's longest and only all-women ultramarathon event, have also gained support of 28 running clubs and triathlon teams.

These groups will set up their own aid stations along the routes.

Gunstart is at 10 in the evening on March 9 (Saturday) and is expected to end Sunday morning. Cut off time is 10 hours.

In keeping with the tradition, the champion will be awarded with a scepter and robe and will have her moment on the stage as the AWUM Queen.

The top 10 runners will get plaques and gift items, while all finishers will receive medals. (FREEMAN)