Hundred-kilometer run set in Pangasinan

Hundred Islands. Photo from pangasinantourism.com

MANILA, Philippines—A grandiose chain of islands deserves an even grander celebration with a hundred-kilometer run in the world-famous tourist destination in Pangasinan.

With the Hundred Islands National Park under the governance of Alaminos City, the race would be the commemoration of the unique natural site and only fitting is an international ultra marathon be organized, a kilometer per island.

Slated on March 15 to March 16, the first ever 100-km ultra marathon would start from the Lucap Wharf of Alaminos City, then runners would traverse through the western Pangasinan towns of Bani, Anda and Bolinao, then back to Alaminos, a statement said.

A hundred-kilometer race may seem tiring and gruesome, but Alaminos’ pristine white sand beaches and perfect summer breeze is enough to nurse those tired calves.

“This is the first time we are doing this in conjunction with our city fiesta,” said Jones Campos, one of the organizers and whose city would celebrate a five-day festivity from March 16 to 21.

“This ultra marathon surely boosts the Hundred Islands as a tourism destination as we are positioning it to be international in nature.”

Several elite runners have already laced up for one of the country’s biggest foot race.

Hardcore 100 miles champion Marcelo “the local Kenyan” Bautista, 2013 The North Face trail run champion Arnold Lozano, Laoag City  ultra marathon champion Joey D., Kenyan, ultra-marathoner Albert Tomabaga and Nature’s Trail Run champion Gerald Sabal of the Philippine Army.

Apart from the 100-km ultra marathon, a shorter and milder 50-km race would run from Bolinao and will end in Alaminos City.

“We want Hundred Islands to regain its popularity and wonder. The time is now.”

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