"on a shoestring"

3RD CAMAYA COAST AQUATHLON & TRAIL RUN (stories of a jealous trail runner, that’s me, on the trails of Camaya Coast)

One of the many stream-crossing during the Extreme Trail Run, Camaya Coast 2011. For some this is where they slow down, it is stepping hard on the gas pedal for me.

The sun was already up when we arrived at a small port at Mariveles, Bataan where boats going to Camaya Coast park. The organizer said that every year they see new faces, this ear the participants doubled. They are amped to try new challenges whether it be aquathlon (swim & run) or trail running.

On its 3^rd year, Camaya welcomed athletes on its white coast for a new and exciting challenge. About 150 participants, mostly newbies, are getting ready for an adventure the metropolis cannot offer- mountain trail routes, open-water swim and white beach run.

 Trail Runners, as they start to enter the exciting trail ahead

I found myself wanting to join them, a lil’ bit jealous as I don’t have a race bib. I was there as an active spectator. All I can do was to stare and cheer my friends (shout out to XTRM TRI, Team Ungas and Snail Runners Alabang) as they do last their minute stretching; the gun just minutes away to be fired. All I want is to wear my running shoes, ready to run as fast as I can because I’m really addicted to the dirt and the different high it gives.

 That steep upHELL cannot be ran… WARNING: Not for everyone

Not wanting to be filled with more jealousy, I asked one of the organizers, Ms.Nina, if I can run a few kilometers so as to take pictures of the trail runners. Good thing, I was allowed to. I initially plan to run with the Extreme trail runners for about 2 kilometers. Those 2 kilometers were not enough so I decided to run the whole loop, a challenging 6 kilometers of sand, dirt, boulders, river-crossing, steep hills and tall dry grass. I was sweaty, breath-catching runner wanting to have just a portion of what those runners experience. It was my first time to try the trails on Camaya Coast and I love it! I want to be back next year, not as an spectator but a challenger- aquathlon event or trail run, only time would tell. We’ll see…

I was observing the faces (and legs) of runners and all I can say is that they are terribly tired, but extremely happy. They were high-fiving at the finish line for an accomplishment not everyone can do.

 Jenny, one of the adventure trail runners and the 2nd-placer for Men’s Aquathlon all smiles amidst the scorching heat

What I love about out-of-town race events is that the participants are only a handful, you will be able to meet & make new friends. The buffet lunch was a time to fellowship, to exchange cards, congratulate winners and celebrate victory. It was one brotherhood of adrenaline-junkies just wanting to chill out and enjoy life. A community where newbies and veterans are treated alike.

Good job Philippine Skyrunning Association (PSA)! I definitely enjoyed covering the event. It was definitely one of the most unforgettable races this 2011. See you guys on other events.

Photos and results of the event will be posted soon on this site and on my Facebook Page- journeyingjames.

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Special thanks to Sir Edcel and Z for inviting me and Banjo (ULiKblog Runner) as OneSport magazine representatives for this thrilling event. Until next time?!