INQUIRER Sports

MANILA, Philippines ? The 34th National Milo Marathon kicks off on Sunday at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila with a new goal: raise 4,000 pairs of shoes for public school students who excel in both sports and academics.

The inspiration comes from previous Milo Marathon events where a number of barefoot children joined the races. Milo Sports Events executive Pat Goc-ong said they are committed to help more children realize their potential.

?We recognize the importance of developing one?s talent and we wish to give these kids an opportunity to shine and achieve something for themselves,? said Goc-ong, who said P5 per registration fee will be allocated for the campaign.

The school?s guidance counselor, principal and physical education teacher will determine the recipients.

Cresenciano Sabal copped his third national crown last year while Christabel Martes ruled the distaff side.

This year, there will be two ways to qualify to the national finals for 21K elimination legs: meet the 1:15:00 (male) and 1:35:00 (female) cutoff times or beat the specified time for every age bracket.

For the 42K Metro Manila elimination leg, all runners who will meet the cutoff time for their age bracket will get national finals slots.

The annual footrace is also providing for the first time timing chips for 10K, 21K and 42K participants. Over P6 million in total cash prizes will be given away, with the Milo Marathon King and Queen bagging P300,000 each.

The 34th National Milo Marathon will have 17 elimination races nationwide. After Sunday?s Metro Manila opener, succeeding stops are slated in Dagupan (July 11), Baguio (July 18), General Santos City (July 25), Davao (Aug. 29), Cebu (Sept. 5), Tagbilaran (Sept. 12) and Dumaguete (Sept. 19). Romina S. Austria