TPVG in Full Swing!
THE 100 Days of Fitness Challenge by The PRL Virtual Gym (TPVG) is in full swing, hitting its final leg soon.
And we have seen massive improvement in physique, mental toughness, and confidence levels among our participants.
For his part, Binoy Panes told PRL Fitness Lead Mike Opina that the routines have helped him survive his four ultramarathons in the first 5 months of the year.
“We need to mix core training and other strengthening exercises to ensure we run strong and happy. Our program is based on science and evidence as this is also used by other licensed fitness gurus and has been researched,” ironMike told The PRL News Express.
PRL Achievers
“Hashtag Matibay” Campaign Takes Off
MATIBAY contains a deeper meaning. Consistent, free from harm, strong, reliable. The Tagalog word encompasses more superlatives to define an honest and hardworking Flipino athlete which the Pinoy Runners London advocates for.
Here are our recent achievers in the first semester of 2021, in addition to Jivee E. Tolentino, Homer Valencia, and John Diamond whose news stories are in The Banner page of this website. These athletes are proudly flying the Filipino flag:
Mike Opina and Rita Opina- husband and wife tandem finishing the Full X Triathlon.
Joseph Faeldonia- ranked number 22, Hardmoors 110 Mile-Ultra
Kenn Soldivillo- finisher, Chester 100 mile-Ultra (GB Ultras); finisher,AJ Bell World Triathlon Championship Series Leeds.
Santos Diana- finisher, Eastbourne Triathlon
Rolando Espina- finisher, NIURA Championship Ultra
Mike Gonda- finisher, NIURA Championship Ultra
Leah Palado- finisher, NIURA Championship Ultra
Lani Navalta- finisher, Queen Elizabeth Park Trail Marathon, Endurance Life Sussex Trail Marathon, and Trail Pursuit half marathon.
Larry Mabborang- finisher, Trail Pursuit race
Merwin Puri- finisher, Trail Pursuit race
Gabe Branzuela-finisher, A2Z Triathlon
Jonathan Winter- participant, Last One Standing Backyard Ultra in Belfast.
John Diamante—finisher, Endurancelife Sussex Trail Marathon, Hard Cheese and Whineathon Marathon (Phoenix Running) and Queen Elizabeth Park Trail Marathon.
Carlos Diaz-finisher, Royal Windsor River Trail Run, Richmond Park Half Marathon, Battersea Park 10 K
Dukaw Cadogan—finisher, Kempton Park Marathon, Dorney Lake Half Marathon, Northants Shires and Spires Multi Terrain Ultra.
Arvin Panes- finisher, Thames Path 100 Mile-Ultra (London-Oxford) by Centurion Running, Liverpool-Manchester Ultra (GB Ultras), Hard Cheese and Whineathon Ultra (Phoenix Running), Endurancelife Sussex Trail Ultra.
PRL’s power couple: Mike and Rita Opina
PRL’s Strong Man of the North: Joseph Faeldonia
Gabe Branzuela in his comeback triathlon.
Leah Palado Vinzons- Dublin’s ultra queen.
Mike Gonda (left) and Rolando Espina (right): 30 miler in less than 4 hours!
PRL’s “The Quiet One” Dukaw Cadiogan: humble but strong.
Carlos Diaz: slaying more than a dozen of halfsies already.
PRL’s Iron Lady: Lani Navalta in Ambleside.
Kenn Soldivillo: triathlete and now a member of the 100 miler-club.
Larry Mabborang: now a bona fide trail runner.
Endurance athlete Jivee “Flying Jivee” Tolentino as the official poster boy of the PRL’s B2B World Challenge.
B2B World Challenge Looms!
GET ready for a greater worldwide challenge. The Pinoy Runners London (PRL) has announced another original virtual running event that is aimed to test the limits of athletes. The Back-to-Back World Challenge (B2B) comes at the heels of the ongoing Unlimited Run (PRL UnliRun) which continues to receive rave reviews, with its participants breaking barriers to clock-in huge mileage every week. According to Santos Diana, PRL co-founder and B2B race director, the PRL UnliRun is a “bridging training” to enable runners survive the bigger challenge. Diana said that in the B2B challenge, runners will attempt to run back-to-back 50 km ultramarathons in two consecutive days, each as a single effort. The other categories are full marathon, half marathon, 15 km, 10 km, and 5 km. “There is a wide range of distances that will cater to all types of runners—from novices to advance runners,” he said.
TPVG is on the roll!
Fancy a leaner you? Or even a washboard abdomen by summer? Or turning into a far more efficient runner? Then enrol in the forthcoming 100 Days of Fitness Challenge by PRL’s resident fitness instructor and triathlete Mike Opiña. The program which is part of The PRL Virtual Gym (TPVG) is based on scientific-based methods that will focus on the entire musculoskeletal system. This worldwide event will open on March 2021 and will roll out with the PRL’s Burn Baby Burn (Triple B) Challenge. The Triple B aims to find one athlete from all over the world, who can burn the most number of calories in a designated period of time. Registration for both events will be available in the events page of the website soon.
Balladeer of Albay Tops Singing Contest
AMANDO Atizado of Albay, Philippines has been declared the champion of the PRL Karaoke Masters, the first ever virtual international singing competition by a Filipino running group for fellow Filipino runners. “This warms my heart. It feels so good to feel belonged in PRL family,” Atizado told The News Express, who sang Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika in the fourth week of the contest, earning him a perfect score of 10/10. He won £120 in cash.
Amando Atizado, champion of The PRL Karaoke Masters. Atizado is also a member of the Filipino Runners Singapore, an ally of PRL.
Lurepe “Peng” Peña Invento, one one hand, was the first runner up after belting a classic Shirley Bassey song, This is My Life, exuding class and elegance in her showmanship. Her performances during the month long contest earned her the monicker, The Diva of Cebu by the judges. PRL awarded her £70 for her prize.
Peng Peña: first runner of The PRL Karaoke Masters.
Following closely was Maritxu Samson of London, pacing second runner-up. She was described as the consummate artist because of her ability to stylise alternative rock songs in her own versions, whilst strumming her guitar. This rock chick pointed out, “we are all winners in this contest. Everybody displayed their full talent,” this rock chick, who won £50 said.
The consummate artist of PRL: Maritxu Samson, the competition’s second runner up.
Overall, 15 contestants joined the PRL Karaoke Masters from around the world to showcase how running can improve one’s ability to sing. The other contestants were: Elaine Watts (London), Grace Duque (Manila), Venus Laigo (London), MJ Carbac (London)—described as The PRL Chanteuse, Christian Gallur (Milan and represented Team PURI), Christian Bravo (London), Roswel Bagui (Rome), Lezzel Lusabia-Daud (Maguindanao), Dukaw Cadiogan (London), Clarrisa Velasco (Abu Dhabi), and Ruth Reyes (Bataan).
“We are so humbled by the dedication and commitment each of our runner-singers have given in this contest,” said Mike Opiña, who is one of the judges.
The Unlimited Run Begins
The Pinoy Runners London (PRL) has launched its first virtual offering for 2021, called The Unlimited Run or Unli-Run for short. It is a parody to the so-called unlimited rice or “unli-rice” servings in restaurants back in the Philippines which have been criticised by some sectors as promoting non-temperance. Some even argued that this has led to too much consumption of carbohydrates to the detriment of one’s health. “We respect our values as Filipinos. But we need to realise that anything in excess is not healthy,” PRL co-founder Santos Diana told PRL News Express. “As usual, it is our aim to promote well being among us,” he added. The Unli-Run will allow athletes from all over the world to run as much as miles as they can. These will be monitored and recorded by the PRL core group to validate the records. For the first time ever, PRL will award the top 3 finishers—for both men’s and women’s division's with a bespoke finisher’s trophy. A Special Citation Award by the race director will also be given. Lani Navalta will be the race director of the event.
ANOTHER MILESTONE!
Master John Wins
English Club Award
The entire family of Pinoy Runners London (PRL) Community was in jubilation last week following the awarding of John Diamante by the Bromley Veterans Club (BVAC).
The Duracell Bunny Award recognises John’ s contribution to and by the running community especially in the COVID-19 crisis which displaced a lot of people. To recall, he ran 100 km during PRL’s Isolation Running Festival in late spring this year to raise almost £4000 for Filipino seafarers financially dislocated by the pandemic. He is the first ever individual to have run 100 km at Norman Park on Bromley and raise the much needed funds.
John has been commended by BVAC for “never tiring or finding new and unusual races during an extraordinary year.”
CONGRATULATIONS MASTER FROM YOUR PRL FAMILY!!!
From Race Along
to Sing Along
The Pinoy Runners London (PRL) opens the New Year with top notes as with the first ever irtual singing competition by and for runners around the world. It will start on 04 January 2021 and runs for four weeks. Binoy Panes, creator of the competition said the event will be a proper diversion from the usual rigours of running and physical activities. Also, it can be a test of one’s lung capacity which running does improve. “We Filipinos love to sing all the time. So it is only right and proper to put much attention to this well loved hobby,” he said.Participants need to be runners to join. They will submit a video of their performance to either Binoy or Lani Navalta, coordinator of the event, every Wednesday for 4 weeks from 04 January 2021. Scores will be tallied towards the end. Cash prizes are at stake: £100 for first prize, £70 for second prize, and £50 for third prize.
TPVG in Full Swing
The PRL Virtual Gym (TPVG) is now open.
Designed to assist Filipino athletes in the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, TPVG offers a range of cardio, core, and relaxation sessions. These exercises also aim to strengthen PRL members turning them into efficient runners, explained Mike Opina, TPVG lead. “In the present times when you have to pay even just for a virtual gym session, this should be of great help to us PRL members as this is a free gym,” he added.
So far, one full body work-out session by Mike and another one for Pilates given by Andrea Sarabia, the other half of PRL ultrarunner Alex, have transpired in its first week of operation.
“We target to conduct at least two sessions per week,” said Mike.
PRL RUNS THE NIGHT, TRAILS
TWO actual running events by the Pinoy Runners London (PRL) events are setting off
after the New Year in line with the group’s aim of developing club-grown athletes.
The Alitaptap Run will fleet through the Denbie’s Wine Estate on January 16, 2021 as a night time run. It will piggyback the official Maverick Night Race which will offer a different experience for runners. PRL runners will be running the “long category” of 22 km, coursing through the hilly and dark vineyards and nearby trails, using head or chest torches. “Seeing runners coursing through the dark will be magical,” Mike Opina, resident PRL triathlete told The News Express.
On the other hand, PRL is set to conquer the steep trails beginning March 2021 through a series of events dubbed as The PRL Trail Masters. It will be a four-season race designed to build endurance among its members. It kickstarts late March for the spring edition, followed by its summer edition in July, November for the autumn edition and January for winter. There will be two categories: a half marathon and a full marathon. Medals will be awarded for the finishers. Mike will be the race director of the PRL Trail Masters.
MERRY MILES ON A HIGH NOTE!
The Merry Miles, the fourth virtual offering by the Pinoy Runners London (PRL) saw the unwavering Filipino spirit amidst life’s challenges.
Legendary ultrarunner Jivee Tolentino completed his weekly 100 km runs strong. He even finished his third week challenge in less than 9 hours, an extraordinary feat seldom seen in virtual events. “I am focused, disciplined, and determined. I thank PRL for the Merry Miles because it helped me with my program,” he told The News Express. Jivee is set to run 220 km as a single effort before the year ends, being one of the only three runners selected by the Dublin Mountain Runners Club to raise money for a charity. He is set to run the Backyard Ultra in Belfast in February 2021, ably supported by fellow endurance runner Rex Brillantes.
On the other hand, marathon neophytes Araceli Odono and Cha Ramirez surprised themselves by finishing the virtual Richmond Marathon, garnering their first ever marathon medal. They actually even ran beyond the 26.2 miles!
The Surrey Hills Trot, an actual running event saw PRL runners conquering both half and full marathon categories to complete their own quota for the Merry Miles as well as their respective virtual races. It was led by resident triathlete and PRL’s Iron Lady Lani Navalta. Attendees were Binoy Panes, Dukaw Cadiogan, Laurence Labitag, Allan Cortez, Michael de Raya, Alex Sarabia, Alexander Eustaquio, Mark Lazaro, Elsa Gallaza, Carlos Diaz. Both Binoy and Dukaw completed their virtual Richmond Marathon during the occasion. Lani debuted into her first ever marathon. A follow-up was done a fortnight after, spearheaded by Lani. Participants were Mike, Maricel Sarmiento, Espie Valencia, Mhar Tangonan, and Santos Diana.
Lani managed to conquer the Iron Man Marathon in her week 4 of the Merry Miles at Denbie’s whilst the Tres Marias of PRL with our long distance running queen Mylene Ugali Elliott and her sister Princess Ugali and friend Nina completed the Grape Escape Marathon in the same place the day before. The Grape Escape saw Binoy ranking number 1 in the timed category after running 10 laps in the hilly wine estate, totalling 33 miles. John for his last, places 6th in the marathon category.
In some parts of the world, runners also completed their own categories of 5, 10, 15, 21, 50, and 100 km—a demonstration of solidarity. English athletes based in official running clubs in Bromley also participated in the event. “This shows we are supported, loved, and respected in our community,” John who is a co-founder of PRL explained.
Neil Calucag for his part, ranked top 1 to 3 in his virtual half marathons which also coincided with the Merry Miles. “I am back in top form. I have fully recovered from COVID”. Ashiel Randell Espiritu also of Wales displayed stronger performance with much improved running times during the Merry Miles.
PRL’s so called Brighton Connection—June Bitong, Freina Quijencio, Floresca Garcia, Jason Austria, and Khel Aquino, along with Lani conquered the difficult Surrey Downs Run.
Merry Miles Takes Off
“Grand Dame” 161 Km and “Big Mommah” 100 Km Categories Added Last Minute!
TO cap the challenging year of 2020, the Pinoy Runners London (PRL) has launched another virtual multi-event race, The PRL Merry Miles. The is the fourth offering by the global PRL community, following the footsteps of its successful predecessors. To recall, PRL held the Isolation Running Festival (IsoRunFest) last May 2020 as a means to aid Filipinos combat the ill psychological and physical effects of the quarantine caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemia. The IsoRunFest which was race-directed by PRL core group (CG) leader Ed Maple was followed by The Master Miles in summer, this time, with Binoy Panes, another PRL CG leader as the race director. In September, The Daily Dash was race-directed by Mylene Ugali Elliott.
“We intend to maintain the momentum especially in staying healthy and strong in these challenging times,”PRL CG leader Michael Terry Jensen told PRL News Express. Michael is the RD for The Merry Miles. Mylene on her part said that The Merry Miles is in response to insistent calls especially from runners in the Philippines to hold another challenging event.
Registration opens on October 30, 2020, midnight, London time and will run for two weeks, Michael said. He added that the entries will be limited. At the same time, it will be on a first-come-first-served basis. Categories are 161 km, 100 km, 50 km, 42 km, 21 km, 15 km, 10 km, and 5 km. Mechanics will be posted soon.
“May your miles be merry and bright!”
Unstoppable Fire!
Philippine Flag Flies High Again!
From top left to right, clockwise: Sandy’s certificate of achievement, Jonathan’s Dublin halfsy, Bernadette’s latest bling with husband Richard, Princess looking proud with her Vitality race bib, Oliver strikes a pose for his virtual marathons, and Betty running the Beachy Head Marathon.
FILIPINO prowess was in full display last weekend as members of the Pinoy Runners London (PRL) community completed their respective races, encompassing different categories and events.
In England, Mike Opiña, Arnel Tabunda, Rommel Bautista and Betty Foggitt virtually flattened the ultra hilly and tough Beachy Head Marathon in Seven Sisters, East Sussex. This was Rommel’s second marathon, a very dignified sophomore follw-up to the Athens Marathon last year. Ultra endurance king Hezel Magwili slew 50 miles with Centurion Running’s Southdowns Way (SDW) ultramarathon, an additional feather on his cap. Long distance queen Bernadette Schlueter on one hand, continued her medal harvest towards her 300th marathon after finishing the 26.2 mile Orc Rampage Challenge by the SVN Running Group. Budding PRL athletes Cha Oblado and Princess Ugali completed their 10 km run with Runthrough UK and Vitality, respectively—both exuding determination. In a significant milestone, Alexander “Sandy” Eustaquio in London completed a total of 874 miles in the Land’s End to John O’Groats Virtual Run. This accumulated mileage is equivalent to the entire distance of the British isle, from south to its northermost tip.
Across the Irish Sea in Dublin, speedster Dante Aquino finished the virtual Dublin Marathon in a stupendous sub-3 hour time of 2 hours, 55 minutes, displaying graceful endurance and agility. Dublin’s queen of ultras Leah Palado Vinzons scored another marathon victory with the Wild Atlantic Run. Jonathan Winters in Belfast completed the half marathon version in top form.
Oliver Aronica in Canada hit two birds with one stone when he completed his second TCS Amsterdam Marathon (virtual) as well as the North Vancouver Run. Oliver is a member also of the Pilipinas Running Team Greece in Athens, a cousin of PRL.
Congratulations from your PRL Family!
From top left to right, clockwise: Hezel finishing Centurion’s SDW Ultra, Princess with her Vitality bib, speedster Dante achieving a sub 3 hour marathon time, Leah wearing the 40th London Marathon t-shirt and displaying the London Marathon medal, and Rommel (left), Mike (centre), and Arnel (right) all smiling at the start of the Beachy Head Marathon
PRL Runners Bag New Blings
FROM top right: John, Binoy, June, Freina, and Bernadette (with Binoy).
“MASTER” John Diamante scored a new high last Sunday, 17/10/20, ranking 7th in the Cyclops Marathon at West Byfleet. Whilst Binoy Panes hit a new double record to finish both the Back to the 80s on Saturday and Cyclops marathons, both organised by IAAF accredited Phoenix Running.
Also performing strongly to win the beautifully enamelled Cyclops Marathon medal was Bernadette Schlueter, displaying her trademark grace under pressure.
In East Sussex, Freina Quijencio was not to be outdone as she finished the virtual Brighton Marathon in style, despite tight work schedule. Team mate June Morada Bitong on his part, completed the tough Beachy Head Half Marathon, a prelude to this coming Sunday’s Beachy Head Marathon which fellow Pinoy Runners London athletes Betty Foggitt, Mike Opiña, and Arnel Tabunda aim to smash. Freina, a clinical site lead nurse and June, an acute medicine senior nurse, both work night shifts in Brighton which poses a challenge to their running routines.
Bernadette, on one hand, is nearing her 300th marathon record with the latest Cyclops achievement. Binoy’s ultras/marathons now tally at 40 whilst John is inching towards 50.
“I am letting go of speed to develop my endurance in doing these back-to-back marathons, which I will be needing to run more ultras next year,” Binoy said who complete both the Phoenix Wedding and The Not The London Marathon a fortnight ago.
John attributed his latest achievement to a consistent running routine. “Be disciplined and committed and you will reap your rewards,” he said.
The beautifully crafted Cyclops medal.
Who remembers this Sony Walkman in the 80s? Surely Binoy does LOL.
PRL Celebrates the Spirit of the 40th London Marathon
AMIDST the raging storm Alex, the Pinoy London Runners (PRL) virtually joined elite and amateur runners during the 40th London Marathon last October 4, 2020. Whilst superstar professional runners raced in laps across St James’ Park in Central London for the actual event, PRL runners in different places in the United Kingdom ran their own challenge, winning themselves a medal and an official T-shirt. This year’s edition which has been limited only to elite runners due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis saw Ethiopian athlete beating four-time winner Eliud Kipchoge who displayed his usual humility in accepting defeat. Kipchoge of Kenya still holds the title of running the 26.2 mile distance under 2 hours. In the women’s division, champion Brigid Kosgei defended her title. She also hails from Kenya.
London, being PRL’s birthplace and base, has nurtured several runners who continue to develop their ability and capacity in this demanding field of sports. “London is extra special because this is where we live,” Mylene Ugali-Elliott, PRL core group leader said. She joined the live video over BBC that covered the London Marathon last Sunday, broadcasting her own race during the Not The London Marathon by Phoenix Running on Walton-on-Thames. Running with her that day were fellow CG leaders Binoy Panes and Ed Maple.
PRL’s branch in Wales held their own run, composed of Neil Calucag, Ashiel Randell Agustin Espiritu, Reynaldo Alejo, Anel Soqueña, and Yen Caniga. In England, apart from Mylene, Ed, and Binoy, Santos Diana, Meme de Jesus, Allan Cortez, Sharina Taylor, Cecile Muaña, Nico Branzuela were in solidarity with the London Marathon. In Belfast, Northern Ireland, it was Louie Almario and Jonathan Winter.
Everyone agreed that the weather conditions were challenging in completing their respective races. “I am forever grateful and thankful to the Almighty for making it possible for me to finish the marathon despite the awful weather condition,” Yen said. Ed, on the other hand, expressed satisfaction of attaining another official marathon record, 7 months after the lockdown.
Ballots for the 2021 London Marathon have recently opened and PRL wishes everyone good luck!
Brillantes, Tolentino Eye Western States 100
Kerry Way Ultra Now a Qualifier
Brillantes (centre) and Tolentino (right) completing the 2020 Kerry Way Ultra in Ireland
DUBLIN-based Filipino ultramarathoners Rex Brillantes and Jivee Tolentino are aiming to qualify in the Western States 100. This comes after official announcements that the Kerry Way Ultra (KWU) which the two Spartathletes successfully finished more than a month ago, is now a qualifier for such prestigious event held at the Sierra Nevada in California, USA every June. “We can now join the ballots of the KWU. We are being hopeful,” Rex told PRL News Express. Jivee on his part said, “this is for Filipino greatness.”
Officially know as the Western States Endurance Run, the event spans 100 miles or 161 kilometres that start at the base of Squaw Valley ski resort and ends at Placer High School track in Auburn, California. Total ascent is 22970 feet or 7000 metres. It has a cut-off time of 30 hours.
Meanwhile, Jivee disclosed to PRL News Express that he would be running this year’s Wicklow Way Run, a 130.8 kilometre-ultramarathon, end of the month. The race starts at Marlay Park and finishes on Clonegal, Ireland. Runners have 21 hours to complete this arduous challenge. Total ascent is 4140 metres and descent, 4170 metres. “I am prepared for this. I have been doing a lot of training. I am following my diet and training programs,” Jivee who recently became a member of the Dublin Mountain Runners Club.
PRL wishes these two brothers of ours all the very best!!!
600 Do the Dash!!!
More than 600 Filipinos and other nationals all over the world have completed The Daily Dash (TDD), a virtual 10 day race organised by the Pinoy Runners London (PRL) that started last September 18 this year. Participants ran, walked, and jogged each day, completing either 3, 5, 10, 15, or 21 km during the entire period, demonstrating resiliency, determination and mental and physical strength.
“I am not a full time runner. I got kids and a full time job. But I still managed to complete my 10 km challenge every day for 10 days because I persevered and believed that I would be able to do it,” said one female participant, who is a mother of four. “It is just a matter of discipline and organising your time. If you have time to watch the telly for 2 hours, definitely you can set aside 30 minutes to an hour for exercise,” she added. Another runner emphasised that the mini-lockdown in their area in the Philippines did not even stop them from running 5 km daily within their limited space. “Myself and my partner were just running back and forth repeatedly within the less than kilometre area our city government
About 80% of entrants were in the 10 km category, proving to be the most popular distance, followed by 5, 21, 3, and 15 km. “I did not imagine myself running 21 km everyday for 10 days! I have discovered some inner strength in me,” a male participant told PRL News Express.
Countries that participated were the United Kingdom, the Philippines, the United States of America, Italy, France, Spain, Greece, New Zealand, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Singapore, China, South Korea, Canada, and Japan. Restrictions were in place in these countries as a means to the stop the spread of COVID-19.
Besides the endurance which the TDD participants displayed, mental and physical well-being amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemia. “I am not allowing COVID to limit my fitness. We need to build up our immune system. We need to maintain a positive attitude. Running will show you the ways and means how to beat mental stress or depression due to this COVID crisis,” she told PRL News Express.
Rolando Espina, Dublin-based Filipino Spartathlete told PRL News Express that TDD encouraged him to commit to a recovery program following his stellar performance in the recent 100 mile-Connemara Ultra Marathon where he placed second. “Those 10 days of walking with my dog Maxx and gentle running helped me to stay fit and continue to recover from my injury which is getting better now,” he said.
TDD is a follow up to PRL’s hugely successful Isolation Running Festival in spring and The Master Miles Challenge last summer. Darryl Games, PRL core group leader said TDD was a flexible tool for fitness for all types of runners from beginners to advanced athletes. “One beauty of the event is that it has been an inclusive race wherein you do not compete with another person. Rather, you compete with yourself, pushing capability to the limit. 3 km might appear small but doing it everyday for 10 days is a different matter, isn’t it? That is the edge of the The Dash,” he said.
PRL would like to thank all the participants who have joined the event as well as the entire core group members for the solid teamwork.
Master John’s certificate of recognition.
Master John in the Spotlight (Again!)
John “Master” Diamante, main founder of the Pinoy Runners London (PRL) has won a new accolade over the weekend, adding another feather on his cap. A certificate of recognition has been issued by the One Nations Awards UK for John’s “significant acts of service to the community during pandemic lockdown 2020.” This was part of his nomination for being “inspirational” and “motivational”.
“I am so honoured by this,” said John, who raised close to £4000 when he did his personal 100 km-challenge at Norman Park on Bromley, London last May during the PRL Isolation Running Festival (IsoRunFest). The funds were used to support financially displaced Filipino seafarers in the ongoing COVID-19 crisis through the charity group SWAIN. The fund raising run was supported by various British athletes coming from local running clubs based in Bromley as well as fellow PRL runners. “This continues to inspire me to help people in my little way, with the support of PRL,” John added.He was consistently escorted by these runners from the gun start at 6 AM until completion 12 hours after. There were also supporters and parker goers who provided food, drinks, and the constant cheering during the entire event. John is the first ever individual to have run 100 km continuously at Norman Park whilst raising the much needed cash for the Filipino seamen, a feat recognised by local Park Run organisers in Bromley area.
John also pooled more than £800 for World Child Cancer last spring with fellow PRL core group leaders Ed Maple and Binoy Panes when they did the Australian HOKA Isolation Virtual Marathon/ Ultra. All three ran separately within their own local area starting 11 in the evening, finishing the following morning.
John has been featured at The Manila Times, One Philippines, and Shoppers Express (a local daily on Bromley) due to his achievements.
Elliott, Schlueter, Cadiogan Shine
THREE athletes from the Pinoy Runners London (PRL) have completed the hallow 26.2 mile-distance last weekend, in their respective official marathon events north and south of England.
Dukaw Cadiogan tackled the difficult Peak District Trail Marathon, displaying endurance in the undulating course. According to Maverick Events, the organiser, the race started in the spectacular Bakewell Showground and took runners to the National Park where “constantly varied and mixed terrain will keep you on your toes.”
Dukaw expressed great satisfaction in completing the event which was an apparently respectable replacement to the shelved Tring Ultramarathon.
Bernadette Schlueter, a resident superwoman of PRL on one hand, continued her relentless pursuit of glory, scoring another official marathon achievement during the Saturn Day Medal Dash Day 1. This brought her total marathon record to almost 300.
Mylene Ugali-Elliott likewise persisted with her unstoppable medal harvest, winning her latest bling with SVN’s Battle of Britain Challenge Run. Posting in her Facebook wall’s Medal Monday, she gave big kudos to her sister Princess Ugali for completing her own 5 km daily run for 10 days during the recently concluded The Daily Dash. “(It) is about my sister who completed (her challenge)..well done, I’m so proud of you and you are amazing,”she said.
Amie Games Halfsy Debut
PRL Conquers Lake District, Bewl Water
Pinoy Runners London (PRL) Core Group (CG) leader Eduardo “Ed Maple” Buglosa Jr has completed his 62 mile (100 km) Lake District Ultra Challenge after reaching the legendary Scafel Pike yesterday. Overall elevation gain was about 2573 metres in a run that was launched on Ed’s birthday a few days ago. He was partly joined by Brighton-based Floresca “Flor” Garcia, who demonstrated agility and endurance in tackling the difficult trails and potentially treacherous summits the Lake District is well-known for. “Flor joined me for two days to complete 60 km with 1700 metre-gain. She even ran a technical train,” Ed said.
Ed’s run was intended mainly to raise funds to help the Kalipay Negrense, a local charity back in Bacolod City, his hometown, which takes care of trafficked, abused, abandoned, and neglected children. The fundraising campaign continues. Please click the link to donate: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/eduardo-buglosa .
Amie Games, the other half of Darryl, another PRL CG leader, meanwhile, debuted inn this year’s Bewl Water Half Marathon in Kent, south of England last Saturday. “She even finished the race way ahead of me,” Darryl said, who still completed the race despite sustaining an injury in one of his Achilles heels. “I was there to support Amie. Especially it was her first time to run that long. I have been running for 6 years now which helps me clear my head after a stressful day at work,” he said, adding that running has opened up opportunities to establish lasting friendships. “It was through running that we met Mike (Michael Terry Jensen, a PRL CG leader).
Michael completed the Bewl Water Marathon category adding another feather on his cap. “That Bewl was tougher than expected,” he quipped whilst quickly adding the sceneries more than compensated for the pain. Michael is planning to complete the 78 miles or 126 km of the Capital Ring Walk in the next few weeks .
Diamante tops Ultra, Elliott 3rd
PRL Dominates Leviathon 50 Miles
Pinoy Runners London’s (PRL) presence was highly palpable during last Sunday’s Leviathon 50 Mile Ultramarathon in Harlow Mill, Essex with John Diamante, living up to his monicker of “Master” after besting the other runners to rank 1st with a time of 9 hours 26 minutes 25 seconds. PRL’s queen of long runs Mylene Ugali-Elliott clenched the third place spot with a stupendous time of 9 hours 47 minutes 47 seconds.
The ultramarathon already on its third year was organised by Phoenix Running. It has been described as “a bit of a monster, a bit of a mythical sea monster (leviathan) to be precise,” in their official website. Rick Vercoe, Phoenix Running race director said it was the first time the Leviathon was held in Essex which was usually done in Walton-on-Thames. The race consisted of 15 arduous laps by a canal that forms part of the Essex waterways still being used as a highway by barges. It was almost flat if not for the elevation of almost 900 feet. It took runners through patches of woodlands strewn with moss, twigs, pine cones, and other organic debris. Wildlife was thriving in the area, with waterfowls virtually cheering the runners.
“I thought of just doing the marathon category as I felt very tired,” John said who was the last one to register for the event. John is well known for his unconventional running routine described as mad by fellow members of the Bromley Veterans Athletic Club. “He is bonkers, running an average of 40 to 70 miles a week. Nobody who is normal does that,” quipped one BVAC runner. “But he is awesome as he always supports me especially during my Park Runs,” she added. John had been slaying entry level and mid-range ultramarathons the last 3 years. During the PRL’s Isolation Running Festival earlier this year, he raised almost £4000, by running 100 km in the local Norman Park in Bromley, Kent, to help cash-strapped Filipino seamen at the height of the COVID-19 crisis. Such feat landed him a feature story at The Manila Times, One Philippines, and Shop Express (a local periodical in Kent). He is also the first individual to have run 100 km continuously in one day in the said park.
“That last minute registration by Kuya John resulted in us having a winner!,” Mylene on the other hand, exclaimed. Once more, she demonstrated her formidable combination of mental and physical prowess in tackling the trail. A few weeks earlier, Mylene completed 100 km in less than 12 hours during the Track Wars event, which was also organised by Phoenix Running. She has completed more than 200 ultras/ marathons so far and the count continues to rise. “ I aim to do a 100 miler-event this autumn,” she revealed, adding her vegetarian diet and proper fuelling during the race have been contributing to her success.
Binoy Panes, meanwhile, made his official debut in the long-haul running world, clocking in 10 hours 34 seconds 17 seconds. He said he had been aiming to attain an official mid-range ultramarathon record after completing the virtual 90 km Comrades Ultra last summer which he did with Mylene and the HOKA Australia Virtual 42 Mile-ultra with John in spring. Binoy had been running entry level official ultramarathons since 2019 since completing the Three Castles, his first ultra. “I wanted to have an official qualifier that will allow me to tackle bigger distances officially in the near future,” Binoy said.
Strong performance by PRL runners during this past weekend: from top left- Binoy Panes with Phoenix Running organiser Rick Vercoe; Mylene and John posing before our hotel (and resto that fed us our meal the night before the event); John as podium finisher for finishing the 50 miler first; Binoy, Mylene, and John holding the PRL official banner; and John and Mylene as podium finishers.
Over 600 to Run, Walk, Jog TDD
PRL Launches YouTube Channel
MORE than 600 have registered for the #TheDailyDash (TDD), the third virtual race organised by the Pinoy Runners London (PRL). Majority of the entrants have enlisted for the 10 km category, representing 31.4%, followed by the 5 km distance at 27.6%, 21 km at 26.3%, 3 km at 7.7%, and 15 km at about 8%. The participants hail from 17 countries or states all over the world: the United Kingdom, USA, the Philippines, Italy, Greece, France, Thailand, Singapore, Qatar, China, the United Arab Emirates, Guam, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, South Korea, and Spain.
“This is another chance for me to keep my fitness which I have improved greatly during the month-long Master Mile challenge,” said one runner from the Philippines who lost 7 kg during the said event. “This will not be easy as it is a continuous and unbroken activity everyday. That is making this event edgy,” she added. However, she noted, “there is a leeway though for everyone as you can just walk or jog your chosen distance. All you need to do is jsut stay focused and disciplined.”
The categories are 3, 5, 10, 15, and 21 kilometres.
TDD starts on September 18, 2020, UK time and ends on the 27th.
Participants are expected to abide by the social distance rules as well as the event’s regulations.
On the other hand, PRL has launched its official YouTube channel today as part of its growth vision. As a premiere, a short video of PRL members is being shown encouraging the TDD to “Do Da Dash”. “We aim to reach a bigger audience around the world as a means to promote the PRL’s vision of developing Filipino runners,” John Diamante, co-founder of PRL said. “We are here to inspire, care and at the same time respect the value of each Filipino individual. Each Filipino has the capacity to change for the better,” John said.
PRL smashes the Pilgrims Way. Couple Trots London-Brighton
PINOY Runners London (PRL) saw another super weekend as couple Mike and Rita Opiña ran from London to Brighton last Saturday, clocking-in 42 miles in the bag. Santos Diana on the other hand, won his 9th marathon medal after completing this year’s tough Pilgrims Way on Sunday whilst Lani Navalta tackled the half marathon route.
Mike and Rita persisted in their challenge for a gruelling 17 hours. Dubbed as her first “unofficial” ultramarathon, Rita described the arduous run as a battle between the mind and body won with the help of husband Mike, a triathlete who has already done a number of marathons. Mike debuted in the ultramarathon scene in the difficult East Sussex Ultramarathon last March, demonstrating mental and physical endurance to finish it within the 8 hour cut-off time with fellow PRL runners." “We crossed Brighton strong, free from injury and with a great satisfaction. (It was) not so fun yet a positive experience,” Rita said.
Santos meanwhile virtually flattened the hills of Surrey to complete the hallowed 26.2 miles with a respectable 4 hours 38 minutes. What makes Pilgrims’ Way unique is that its course is littered with about a quarter of to a foot-deep of sand, making it more difficult to run. This was designed for horse riding which is common in the local area of Farnham, Surrey. The course is undulating and was used in the ancient times by pilgrims journeying to Canterbury.
“What compensated for the pain and hardship was the friendliness of the organisers, locals, and the marshals. And the views were fantastic. Everywhere was beautiful—the trees, the hills, the meadows and fields,” Santos said, noting that due to the COVID-19 restrictions, there were plenty of modifications to be made like the absence of race bibs and measuring the running times manually. Also, food was not enough. “They could have added some more refreshments for the runners,” Santos said who had to struggle after mile 18 due to a muscular tear on his right thigh. “All in all, we have proven we are strong,” he said.
Lani on one hand, slew 13.2 miles at a time of 2 hours, 12 minutes, amidst the challenging conditions. Completing the halfsy, she said, is a testament of what the body is able to achieve despite its imperfections. “The more I run, the more I love my body. Not because it’s perfect, far from it. But because with every mile it is proving me that I am capable of more than I ever thought possible,” she said.
Binoy Panes
PRL Runner to Run 100 Km to Raise £1 K for Charity
Ed aims to raise at least £1k for Kalipay Negrense Foundation, a charity for abandoned, abused, neglected, and trafficked children in the Philippines.
EDUARDO Buglosa, Jr. will run at least 100 km on September 17, 2020 in the Lake District, North England in a bid to raise £1000 to aid a local charity back in the Philippines. Known as Ed Maple in his running community, he named this personal challenge as The Lake District Trail Ultra which coincides with his birthday, making it extra special. This is a follow up to the 100 Km Thames Path Challenge run—a UTMB qualifying event organised by Centurion One—done last year which garnered about £500 worth of donations for Mind, a charity organisation in the United Kingdom. This time Ed aims to pool in £1000 to support Kalipay Negrense Foundation which helps disadvantaged, abandoned, trafficked, neglected, and abused children. The charity is based in Bacolod, Negros Occidental which is his birthplace
“Running definitely has improved the way I see life,” he said when asked about the main driver of this tough challenge. “It has positively changed my outlook towards achieving a task and made me realise the importance of mental health through running,” added Ed, who made his debut as a bona fide marathoner in the 2018 Marathon de Paris. “I stayed a couple more of minutes at the finish line during the Paris Marathon, being emotional then, because I did something I thought was never gonna happen in my life, to conquer 42 km.” Ed’s passion for running started in the Philippines where he would join the so-called fun runs albeit only once or twice a year.
That French experience stoked the desire to conquer bigger events, resulting in the completion of the 100 km-trail ultramarathon later in 2019 by the River Thames." “I thought 42 kilometres was impossible and I just did a 100 km-run! Definitely, whatever your mind conceives and believes, your body can achieve,” he said.
“Running also opened up a lot of connections and opportunities for me to meet amazing people not only from PRL and our home country, but other Filipino runners abroad ad other nationalities worldwide. We are all connected, all brothers and sisters. Running is our nationality,” he said.
To donate to Ed’s cause, please click the following link:
TDD Registrants Rise to 365
THE number of runners from all over the world registering for The Daily Dash (TDD) has gone up to 365 as of today, 10/09/20. According to Santos Diana, a core group leader of the Pinoy Runners London (PRL), this signifies the continued need among Filipino runners to further their fitness objectives. “This is very significant considering the pressing challenges in life, especially in the time of pandemia. We have already seen the positive outcomes of running to one’s mental and physical health which the COVID crisis threats to destroy,” Diana said. He added that apart from health reasons, the TDD provides the opportunity to meet new friends as well as maintain already established friendships that were struck in the previous PRL events—the Isolation Running Festival in May and the Master Miles Challenge 2020 last month. “We as Filipinos are gregarious. We are a warm people who love to socialise. TDD is a means to sustain healthy relations among us, to support each other in battling life’s crises,” he said.
Registration for TDD is ongoing and will end midnight of 15/09/20, UK time. It is free to all runners aged 16 years and above. The categories are 3,5,10,15, and 21 kilometres. Participants will choose one of the distances they need to run daily for 10 days beginning 18/09/20. The activity must be continuous and a single event per day. Runners should submit their recorded runs via any accepted running apps either via email: pinoyrunnerslondon@gmail.com or through Facebook’s private messenger (PRL core group leaders: Binoy Panes, Mylene Ugali Elliott, John Diamante, Ed Maple, Michael Jensen, Darryl Games, Betty Foggitt, Nico Branzuela, Roy Baril).
This virtual event is governed by The Code: Inspire, Care, and Respect. Mylene Ugali Elliott, nicknamed as “PRL Queen” is the race director.
