Aetas show endurance, skills in Allianz ‘Conquer Challenge’ race

Jacob King tries to finish one of the obstacles during the Allianz Conquer Challenge. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

CLARK–In one of the hardest races of the Allianz Conquer Challenge, one of the premier obstacle course races in the Philippines, this year, selected Aetas showcased their skills and endurance last Sunday at Clark Global City.

The Aetas from Porac, Pampanga–one of the communities that Allianz Philippines, the title sponsor of the Conquer Challenge Race, supports–were introduced to Obstacle Course Racing in an effort to promote social inclusion.

Twenty-one Aetas and partnered with Allianz employees for the 10-kilometer race lined with 25 physically-demanding obstacles that were sure to test one’s stamina.

But the Aetas were undaunted by the obstacles that were meant for elite athletes, who also competed in the race which served as one of the qualifiers for the national team pool with OCR part of next year’s Southeast Asian Games.

One of the obstacles during the 10-km Conquer Challenge. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

“I had a lot of fun, I learned a lot too. The obstacles earlier were like a lesson in life. If you don’t work hard enough for something, you really won’t be able to achieve your goals,” Reina Baclay, 18, told INQUIRER.net after the race.

On top of a long run under the heat of the sun, the participants had to overcome hurdles like balance beams, rope climbs, monkey bars, warped wall, slingshot, and dead ball carry among others.

The Aetas, though, seemed to like the toughest parts of the race like Jacob King, 21, who enjoyed the rope climb part–which a lot of participants were not able to finish.

“I’m used to it (rope climb). In my area, there were a lot of big tree roots and we climb them so I know how to do it,” King, a student in  Villa Maria Integrated School in Porac, told INQUIRER.net.

The tandem of Jacob King and Allianz exec Alexander Grenz. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

“We believe Obstacle Racing fits very well (for Filipinos). In life, you have overcome a lot of obstacles and you need someone to help you. Like today in the race, with the Aetas together, you need a partner who can help you,” said Allianz chief operating officer Alexander Grenz, who was King’s partner for the race.

Allianz vowed that its work with Aetas of Porac, Pampanga “is not a one-time affair,” like its support for Obstacle Course Racing in the Philippines.

The insurance company started its partnership with Conquer Challenge PH, one of the local brands for OCR in the country, last year and with the boom of the sport, Allianz is expected to continue its help.

“OCR is really getting traction with the Philippines, especially with our partnership with Conquer Challenge which has made OCR accessible to Filipinos,” said Communications Director Rei Abrazaldo.

“We are exploring discussions with the Conquer Challenge group on how again we can make a difference next year. This year we had three races, we had a night race as well.” Abrazaldo said. “We’re looking at other options to reach more Filipinos.”