Here’s everything that happened at HOKA Midnight Run Asia presented by GOMO

MANILA, Philippines — Race night didn’t begin at the starting line, it started days before the first runner took off.

Last July 19, 2026, almost 15,000 runners gathered at the SM Mall of Asia Complex for the second leg of HOKA Midnight Run Asia presented by GOMO – MANILA, following the successful opening leg in Davao last May 31.

But HOKA Midnight Run Asia presented by GOMO has always been about more than just running. From race kit claiming to community runs, interactive experiences, music and post-race celebrations, every part of the event was designed to create a race weekend unlike any other.

The HMRA experience began before race day

The excitement started long before midnight.

During Race Kit Claiming at HOKA One Ayala, runners were welcomed with interactive experiences that immediately set the tone for race weekend. They customized their race shoes at the Shoe Charm Bar, giving every pair a personal touch before heading to the starting line.

Just days before the race, runners also came together for the official Shakeout Run led by Coach Enzo Hipol. More than just an easy run, participants created personalized cheer cards that friends and family later brought to the course, adding another layer of energy and community to race night.

A race village that came alive before midnight

As runners arrived at the venue, the race village was already buzzing with activity.

The countdown to midnight was powered by DJ Hoest, who transformed the race village into a full pre-race celebration. Before the gun start, runners gathered around the main stage, singing along to Top 40 hits and viral tracks while soaking in the excitement before making their way to start.

Around the venue, runners also enjoyed live entertainment, including LED dance performances, keeping the energy high as the clock counted down to midnight.

Midnight struck and Manila took over

At exactly 12:00 a.m, thousands of runners surged onto the streets as HOKA Midnight Run Asia presented by GOMO officially began.

What made HMRA different wasn’t just the nighttime course, it was the soundtrack that accompanied every kilometer.

Instead of a single playlist, runners experienced multiple music zones throughout the course, with DJs playing different genres at various route stations. From Top 40 and viral hits to house, techno, hip-hop, R&B, amapiano, UK garage, and more, every stretch of the course offered a unique atmosphere, allowing runners to find a rhythm that matched their own style.

Each turn brought a new beat, making every kilometer feel like its own experience.

More than a race: an experience

Beyond the course, partners helped create an immersive race weekend for every participant.

At the HOKA Motion Hub, runners explored the latest HOKA footwear and even had the opportunity to test shoes such as the Clifton Pro. They also visited the Shoe Charm Bar to personalize their footwear, stopped by photo stations to capture memories, browsed exclusive HOKA merchandise, and recharged with refreshments.

The event was also joined by members of the HOKA MRA Squad, including Dan Hilaria, Marco Gumabao, EliNails, and other personalities who added to the excitement throughout race weekend.

At the GOMO booth, finishers lined up to have their medals engraved, turning every medal into a personalized keepsake commemorating their race night achievement.

Meanwhile, San Mig Light welcomed 21KM finishers with a well-earned celebratory beer, giving runners another memorable way to cap off an unforgettable race.

The party didn’t stop at the finish line

Crossing the finish line wasn’t the end of the experience.

As runners completed their races, DJ Hoest returned to the main stage, transforming the post-race program into a celebration where finishers gathered, danced, and celebrated their achievements together.

The energy that began before midnight carried on well after the last finisher crossed the line, proving that HOKA Midnight Run Asia presented by GOMO is as much about community and celebration as it is about running.

The midnight continues

With two successful stops now complete—Davao and Manila—the HOKA Midnight Run Asia presented by GOMO series continues its journey across the Philippines.

What runners experienced in Manila wasn’t just a race. It was an all-out race night where running, music, community, and unforgettable experiences came together in one extraordinary event.

And as the series moves on to its next city, one thing remains certain: The midnight is just getting started.

Editor's Note: Philstar.com is a media partner of RunRio events