MANILA, Philippines - Ortigas Center in Pasig City has always taken pride in being home to some of the country’s largest conglomerates, shopping malls and entertainment centers. Forming its skyline are residential, hotel and office skyscrapers, each of which lends a decidedly modern charm to its overall cosmopolitan vibe. Nestled between these mega structures is a collection of malls and restaurants, offering something to suit every lifestyle. Practically anywhere you go in Ortigas Center, you will find yourself driving along wide avenues or strolling ample sidewalks, while enjoying the added benefit of pockets of greenery and foliage.
The driving force behind this major business and commercial district is the Ortigas Center Association Inc. (OCAI). Established in 1982, OCAI is a non-stock, non-profit organization commissioned to uphold the stature of Ortigas Center as one of the nation’s prime business districts. Just recently, OCAI partnered with the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center (RCOC) to hold their first run called “OCAI Run” on June 27.
“This first ever road run in Ortigas Center aims to accomplish the goals of the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center,” says Luz N. Cotoco, chairman of OCAI. “It is also for the benefit of the various humanitarian projects of RCOC.
This is a first for Ortigas Center as it jumps on the bandwagon of the country’s running phenomenon. However, it brings with it something new to the table — and that is the wide, rolling avenues that will offer a fresh challenge to both casual and serious runners. With 3k, 5k and 10k distances to choose from, race director Rudy Biscocho assures everyone there will be a twist from the usual routes held in other parts of the city. “Due to the elevation in and around the Ortigas Center area, there will be uphill stretches guaranteed to test your mettle,” says Biscocho. “But naturally, for every uphill climb there is a reward, and you can improve you time by speeding up going downhill.”
Registration fee is P400 for any of the three distances which is inclusive of one race bib, baller band, route map, finisher shirt and loot bag that will be given right after the run. All proceeds of the OCAI Run will go to the humanitarian projects of the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center. Registration period is until June 23 at all Mizuno outlets, and at OCAI Office until June 26. Raffle prizes including a Technomarine watch and giveaways await lucky participants, while cash prizes will be given to the top three finishers of each category.
For inquiries, call 890-4230 and 0922-8367990 and look for Ana Salas. Or check out their Facebook page by searching for “OCAI Run.” The OCAI Run is organized by OCAI with RCOC, presented by the Ortigas & Company Limited Partnership and sponsored by HSBC, Meralco, Puregold, The San Miguel Corporation, First Holdings, Flanax, Xenical, The Oriental Assurance Corporation, BusinessWorld, CCI Enterprises, SM Megamall, Robinsons Department Store, Unilever and Ropali.