Finisher runs off with biggest prize, a bride-to-be

MANILA, Philippines - Running enthusiast Albert Mendoza didn’t land on the podium of the 5K race of the 35th National Milo Marathon but that’s the least of his concerns yesterday for he ran off with the biggest prize of ‘em all – the love of his soon-to-be-bride.

Mendoza, a network engineer for an online gaming company, navigated the route starting and ending at the Mall of Asia Complex with his long-time girlfriend, Venus Olga Santos, but as soon as they crossed the finish line made a U-turn to the event’s stage area for a surprise act.

Borrowing the mike, he knelt down, took out the diamond ring he stitched up on his singlet, and popped the question in front of some 23,000 runners and spectators. Santos, his beau for five-and-a-half years, cried unabashedly in joy.

“I chose to propose during this event because I felt it would be unique, just as she always likes unique things, be it clothes or food. Much better than going to a restaurant and fishing the ring from a wine glass,” said Mendoza, who approached event organizers beforehand to set up his proposal.

“I didn’t expect that he would make his proposal here,” an overjoyed Santos said.

The couple has been participating in running events regularly, usually waiting for each other near the finish line so they could cross it together.

This time, there’s no running away from each other.