Stags Run 2012 targets over 5,300 participants

MANILA, Philippines - The roster for the second Stags Run 2012 dubbed “Takbo para sa Edu-Misyon” continued to swell with running buffs joining the San Sebastian students, school employees and alumni in the event set Jan. 15, at 6 a.m., at the ASEANA City near the Mall of Asia and Macapagal Boulevard.

The organizing San Sebastian College-Recoletos said the fun run is tipped to surpass the 5,300 field that participated in last year’s inaugurals of the event held to generate funds for its charitable and church missions in Africa.

“We hope to attract and draw as many participants as last year but if we could get more to join our event, the better for everybody,” said San Sebastian president Fr. Anthony Morillo.

Fr. Christopher Maspara, OAR, who heads the committee in charge of the organization of the one-day event, said registration is ongoing at Chris Sports stores at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay, Glorietta and SM Manila and ROX in Taguig.

“We’re encouraging not just those who love to run and stay healthy but also those who want to help our less fortunate brothers and sisters in our education missions here in the country and abroad,” said Maspara.

He was referring to funding missions in Sierra Leone in West Africa as well as in Casian Island in Palawan.

“Last year, the money generated from the event went to Africa alone, now we’re sharing it locally, specially a small, impoverished community in Palawan,” he added.

The race, co-organized by Fr. Arnel Diaz, OAR, Dindo Bunag and athletic director Frank Gusi, also coincides with the school’s 65th founding anniversary celebrations.

Events on tap are the 3K, 5K and 10K. Fee is P500.

Justin Tabunda is expected to defend his crown. Mercedita Manipol-Fetalvero goes for a second straight win in the women’s side of the 5K division. Mervi Guarte and Jho-Anne Banayag are the defending champions in the 10K event. Michael Bacong and Michelle de Vera won last year’s 3K event.