For runners – young, old – Milo run return is worth the wait

MANILA, Philippines — It is his passion, his life, his “maintenance.”

Though finishing beyond his target clocking, 55-year-old Bonifacio Dultra – like the many other Milo Run regulars – had a great time finishing the 42K Manila leg yesterday.

“Ayos naman at finisher tayo pero ‘di ko nakuha ‘yung gusto kong oras sa age category ko para makapasok sa national finals,” said Dultra, feisty and ardent like his name bearing the surname of valiant Philippine hero Andres.

His mishap didn’t dampen his emotions. For Dultra, the long wait to run marathon again was worth every step, every sweat.

“Masaya na ulit ang runners kasi nakabalik na ang Milo. Ito talaga ang inaabangan namin. Pag sinabing marathon, Milo kasi talaga lagi ang No. 1 na inaabangan ng mga tao,” beamed Dultra, a qualifier in the 2018 Laoag national finals, while in line for a Milo stall at the finish line.

“Kagaya ko na medyo may edad na, natutuwa ako kapag tumakbo-takbo. Kasi ito na ang pinaka-buhay ko. Napipilitan ako mag-training para rito. Ito na ang pinaka-maintenance ko kasi wala akong iniinom na gamot kaya tuloy-tuloy lang,” added Dultra, from Batasan Hills in Quezon City but originally from Calbayog, Samar.

Dultra’s evergreen enthusiasm, discipline, health and passion embodied what Milo has exactly been championing since its foundation six decades ago.

This year alone, the renowned sports drink brand has included categories for kids and family.

“Sports can be a fun family bonding. Over the years, nakita natin ang mga elite and champion runners but this time, we encouraged kids and families as part of our Milo Active Pilipinas campaign,” said Milo Sports head Carlo Sampan, joined by race organizer Rio dela Cruz.

“We hope to influence Filipino families to live an active lifestyle. We’re happy na maraming sumali as it’s part of our 60th anniversary in bringing out the champions in every Filipino.”