Biking, swimming and running are usually the key elements to survive in this kind of endeavor. But because of Filipinos’ continuous search for daredevil challenges that would test their skill, wit and stamina, adventure racing has escalated to include kayaking, parao sailing, orienteering, spelunking and different obstacle courses and mind games.
Sports enthusiasts, weekend warriors, mountaineers, triathletes and outdoor lovers are now into adventure racing, whose popularity has translated into several television reality shows. This sport is now being noticed not only by sports enthusiasts, but also by people from all walks of life, with different careers and lifestyles.
Audiences all over the country are slowly being captivated by adventure racing and they are beginning to understand how participants’ capabilities and limits are severely tested. And as the competition reaches a climax, one look at the racers’ faces tells it all. They have taken the challenge and they have endured.
"Money or recognition is not always important to a racer," Jerome Luengo, a member of Team AXN Philippines, the first winner of the grueling Eco-challenge, said. "What matters most is that they are able to experience a special kind of kick."
And because of this, San Mig Light, the right alcohol, low calorie beer, which for years has supported outdoor and adventure sports, is inviting sports aficionados to be part of this annual major event — the Enduro San Mig Light Adventure Race. After a successful race in Boracay, the Enduro San Mig Light Adventure Race is set for its second leg in Metro Manila on Aug. 20 and 21.
For interested participants, call the Enduro hotline at (632) 4128660 or text ENDURO to 386 for Smart subscribers or log on to www.sanmiglight.com.ph for race details.
More than P200,000 will be up for grabs in the Manila Leg, where new challenges will be revealed in time by X10 Events organizers. The event is sponsored by Tribu, Bombproof and Next Base.
According to Luengo, adventure racing has spawned different groups and organizations all over the country. What started out as a hobby by mountaineering groups has turned into a sporting event.
"If you truly want to test yourself in sports," Luengo said, "get into adventure racing."