Health And Family

Team Merrell conquers Mt. Apo

August 11, 2009 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines – For most people, the idea of running in a marathon is as far-flung as the race itself. In the case of Team Merrell’s Carina Dayondon, Pastour Emata, and Carlito Esparar, participating in hard-core races that test the limits of a person’s strength, endurance, and wits is a way of life. Their passion for racing has led them to conquer even the most arduous of competitions like the 2nd Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge in Davao del Sur.

A 24-hour extreme adventure race that combined various disciplines such as trail running, mountain biking, water tubing, trekking, navigating, and mental exercises, the 2nd Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge required competing teams to negotiate ragged terrains, surfaces, and conditions at 10,000 feet above sea level.

Carina and Pastour attributed their latest feat to the team’s familiarity with the countryside, exposure to high-altitude races, regular training, fortitude, and the proper outdoor adventure gear.

The trio makes it a point to sharpen their race skills and techniques by joining and organizing outdoor competitions. Each member also tries to cross-train as much as their jam-packed schedule permits.

Of course, Team Merrell’s preparation doesn’t end there. Carina and Pastour stressed that in addition to the mental, physical, and psychological groundwork, having the appropriate outdoor adventure gear is crucial if you want to win or even finish a race — especially when it comes to footwear.

Both of them prefer wearing Merrells during long and tough competitions like the Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge. To these experienced adventure racers, Merrell allows them to have greater confidence in their stride despite the surface or outdoor conditions.

Merrell’s fit, supportive insole, and state-of-the-art traction help athletes run and climb uneven surfaces without tiring easily. Its traction, Vibram soles, and comfortable fit gave the team an extra boost of confidence even while they were running through rocky and unstable ground. Pastour also emphasized that despite the grueling 14-hour run, he and his teammates didn’t get a single blister on their feet — proof of Merrell’s unparalleled comfort.