Photo by Bong Lozada/INQUIRER.net
Rio Dela Cruz, the premier running icon in the Philippines, has turned the sport into something accessible to all.
With the launch of the RUNRIO Trilogy Race Series 2017, Dela Cruz, who sports an iconic afro, hopes to encourage more to get serious about running.
“I want to share my love of running with others. You see, running is not just a sport it is also a way of life,” said Dela Cruz who is also the head coach of University of the Philippines’ track and field team. “When you run, you’re relaxed and it also clears your mind.”
RUNRIO Trilogy Race Series 2017, now on its seventh year, is a three-leg event that features a half-marathon, 10-kilometer, and 5 km races. The first leg is on June 25.
The Trilogy’s second leg is set for August 13 with a 32 km race called “Afroman,” 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km.
And the last leg, set for October 1, will have a full 42 km marathon and the usual 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km races.
All legs will take place around Okada Manila in Parañaque.
“The RUNRIO Trilogy Series is dedicated to all the people who are not just running enthusiasts like me, but most especially for people who are thinking of making running as their way to a healthy lifestyle,” said Dela Cruz.
The event also marked the official launch of RUNRIO Events Inc, as Dela Cruz partnered with Dingdong Dantes and the actor’s YesPinoy Foundation.
Dantes said part of the proceeds of the Trilogy Series will go to YesPinoy Foundation as they plan to donate one disaster kit, called Go Bags, to all the children living in disaster-prone areas in the country.