Location: Liwasang Ulalim, CCP Complex, Pasay City
Date: July 14, 2024
Distance Run: 5km
The Water Run Edition of the Takbo Para sa Kalikasan run series is hosted by Green Media Events Company. The event aims to promote health and wellness while supporting environmental conservation.
This year’s Water Run focuses on assisting the @Pawicare Hatchery in La Paz, San Narciso, Zambales, through the Pawikan Project. Runners will help improve turtle hatching rates, raise awareness about turtle conservation, and emphasize the importance of protecting our environment (information from Pinoy Fitness).
I registered online for the 5K distance, with available distances ranging from 1K to 18K. The registration fee for 5K participants is Php 1,050.00 and includes an event singlet, race bib, finisher medal, and finisher shirt.
The online registration process was smooth. I opted for the delivery option for the singlet to avoid any hassle, and it arrived on the scheduled release date, which was great. I love the quality of the singlet, although it is a bit large for my size; overall, it fits well.
I stayed in Manila the night before the event to ensure I wouldn’t be late. The gun start for the 5K runners was at 5 AM.
Unfortunately, despite staying in Manila, I didn’t arrive before my gun start. I had trouble finding the parking area because many roads were closed due to the event. I arrived late, and the starting point was almost 1 km from where I parked, which took additional time to walk. By the time I reached the start, the 1K runners were just about to begin, as their gun start was at 5:30 AM. I joined them.
The weather was cloudy during the run. I alternated between walking and jogging. There were many runners, and you could see from their faces that they were enjoying themselves. There were also kids participating. Barricades were set up to separate the different routes, and staff members were there cheering you on along the way. Water and Pocari Sweat stations were available to keep you hydrated. Many photographers were on hand to capture your moments, so you just needed to give your best smile or pretend to be focused on running. I chose to smile and pose in a running stance. Remember to check their page later to view your photos if they’re available.
A fire truck positioned before the finish line sprayed runners with water, making the experience more enjoyable and giving a true sense of a water run. I completed the run in approximately an hour. After finishing, I had to stand in line at the booth to collect my medal, shirt, and souvenir. The line was long due to the large number of runners.
Overall, a Water Run offers a distinctive and invigorating twist on the traditional running event, combining the thrill of a race with the enjoyment of water showers. It even rained after the event, adding to the water-themed experience. I look forward to their future events.
