Baguio bets test Kenyans in Kennon run

BAGUIO, Philippines  – The leading local runners brace for a tough challenge against the Kenyans in the 2012 Philex-Kennon Global Marathon firing off Sunday at the historic and scenic Kennon Road here.

University of Baguio coach Brando Galicia said that runners based in Baguio and Benguet hope to cash in on the so-called “homecourt advantage” since they are used to uphill running and to the thin oxygen of the hi-lands.

“We will give the Kenyans a good fight,” said Galicia.

Two Kenyans have already signed up for the 21k Conquerors Race which offers the top purse of P40,000.

The Philex-Kennon Global Marathon offers a total prize fund of P262,000, including a bonus of P10,000 for the top Filipino finisher.

Members of the national team have also confirmed their participation in the event presented by Philex Mining Corp. and backed by Tiong San Department Store, LBC, Fortune General Insurance, Smart, El Cielito Inn, and the city government of Baguio and the municipal government of Tuba, Benguet.

National coach Mario Castro said his wards Julius Ermona, Rene Herrera and Eric Panique will be competing since the three are already training in Baguio training.

Runners from Metro Manila have already signed up through Toby’s Arena in Shangri-La Mall and through bank registrations. Runners in Baguio and Benguet, on the other hand, have been flocking the Tiong San Department Store in Harrison Road and La Trinidad to sign up for the 21k, 9k, 5k and 3k categores which all offer cash prizes, trophies and medals.

The Kennon Global Marathon promises to be a very exhausting run since 80 percent of the course is uphill, with an elevation gain of 3,500 feet. Some portions of the run have a grade of 35 degrees which will surely challenge the runners.

The 9k category, for one, is a test of strength as it is uphill all the way right from the starting line at the Lion’s Head. Hence it is called the Lionhearts Race and offers a top prize of P10,000 plus trophy.

Meanwhile, listup ends at 5 p.m. today for 9k and 21k and up to 5 p.m. tomorrow in Baguio for the 3k and 5k. All categories will start at 6 a.m.

For more information, log on to www.kennonmarathon.org or www.facebook.com/kennonglobalmarathon.