Cebu: The Philippine Trail Running Association (Philtra) is gearing up for its National Championships set to take place from March 21 to 23 in Danao, Cebu. This event will bring the sport of trail running into the limelight, featuring the challenging terrains that have become characteristic of this rapidly expanding sport.
According to Philippines News Agency, the championship is the final stage of a series of nationwide qualifying events held last year. It will serve as the selection ground for the new roster of the Philippine trail running team, which will compete in international competitions. The races will include distances of 40 kilometers (short course), 80 kilometers (long course), and 15 kilometers (five hours).
Philtra’s vice president and secretary-general, Tin Ferrera, along with manager Gerard Tipones, announced an expected turnout of nearly 700 participants. This includes the top runners from the country and competitors from neighboring nations. Among the local athletes leading the charge are Larry Apolinario from Antique and Elizabeth Dangadang from Baguio City.
Ferrera expressed optimism about the event’s potential to unearth new talent, citing the impressive performances of Filipino trail runners in international competitions in Southeast Asia. Currently, the Philippines ranks second in the Asia-Pacific region for trail running.
Looking ahead, the Philippine team is eyeing the World Championships in Spain in September. The sport is also being considered for inclusion in the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane, Australia. “What we’re doing is in preparation for this,” Ferrera remarked at the recent Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum held at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex Conference Hall in Manila, with support from the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Olympic Committee.
Tipones detailed that runners in the upcoming championships will cover the designated distances in 20 to 40 hours with brief stops at aid stations for quick breaks and replenishment. He emphasized the relentless nature of the sport, stating, “But because they’re after the time, they really don’t take long breaks.”
Ferrera highlighted the potential for success in this sport, noting, “We can really have a good chance in this sport and napatunayan na natin sa (we proved in) Asia-Pacific and Southeast Asia. Some of our bets were first-timers internationally and they ranked.”