35th Milo Marathon kicks off July 3

Milo Marathon, one of the country’s longest-running footrace, achieves another first on its 35th staging as it gains recognition from the Association of International Marathons and International Association of Athletics Federation.

Running coach Rio dela Cruz said the AIMS and IAAF certification for the 42K Metro Manila elimination and finals, which he is both handling, will include exchange of information and knowledge among members of the association.

“As the country’s biggest marathon event, it is but fitting that the Milo race continues to make improvements and changes,” said Dela Cruz during yesterday’s press conference at the Bayview Hotel in Roxas Boulevard, Manila.

Among the improvements is the use of timing chips for all race categories in all races nationwide. The SM Mall of Asia grounds in Pasay is also the new venue of the Metro Manila legs.

The National Milo Marathon kicks off its 35th year on July 3 in Laoag, followed by Dagupan (July 10), Olongapo (July 17), Tarlac (July 24) and Manila (July 31).

Other races will be held in Batangas (Aug. 21), Puerto Princesa (Aug. 28), Naga (Sept. 4), San Pablo (Sept. 11), Iloilo (Sept. 18), Bacolod (Sept. 25), Cebu (Oct. 2), Tagbilaran (Oct. 9), Cagayan de Oro (Oct. 16), Butuan (Oct 23) and General Santos (Oct. 30) and Davao (Nov. 5). The last leg is the Manila grand finals on Dec 11.

Southeast Asian Games marathon champion Eduardo Buenavista ruled the 34th edition—his third national title—while Flordeliza Donos topped the distaff side.

This year’s national finals winners will again take home P300,000 while the runners-up will settle for P150,000. The Manila elimination champion will pocket P50,000 while the 21K provincial leg winners will be awarded P10,000.