The next race to feature a disposable timing chip is due to arrive on August 15, 2009 via the Kenny’s Open ’09 Urbanite Run.  This is another race organized by Finishline so expectations are naturally high, especially with the timing chips and the interesting results it generates.

This race is set apart from the norm by being the held on a Saturday night.  It is also a fund raising run for the benefit of Hands On Manila Foundation, Inc. and 57:75 Movement so you know that it’s worthwhile.

Easy and Fast Registration

If all registration processes were like this one’s it would be a delight!  By far registration for this race is one of the most convenient with numerous Kenny Rogers branch to choose from and virtually no lines!  I registered on KR Megamall branch and it was pretty quick—a banner was placed for quick recognition and the staff manning the process was really helpful and informed so it was a hassle-free experience.

Registration costs P600 which would make this the costliest “typical” race so far in the Philippines but as stated earlier part of it goes to charity.  For the P600, P200 goes to the aforementioned institutions, P200 goes to the race dues, and the remaining P200 returns to you as a food stub so when you think about it, it’s not that expensive.  You get to enjoy a night run, eat good food, and be able to help the fund-raising—I’d say a pretty good combo.

Notes and Reminders

The “Eat” stub can be used from July 15 to October 15, 2009 so there’s no need to rush in using it.  It’s accepted at all Kenny Rogers Roasters branch including the Kenny’s Roast & Grill restaurant at the Powerplant Mall in Rockwell.

The “Donate” stub should be brought on the night of the race where it should be dropped at designated drop-boxes.  What happens if bearers fail to do so is unspecified but I think this process would just be for visual representation of how much funds we would generate.

Make sure to arrive at the assembly area by 7:00PM especially if you have vehicles to park (since it’s on a Saturday night).  Gun start for the races are as follows:

15K: 8:00PM
10K: 8:45PM
5K: 9:00PM

Don’t lose your claim stub as it contains your registration information needed for a quick claiming process.  Race kits may be claimed in front of Nike Park in Bonifacio High Street on August 13 to 14, 2009, from 3:30PM to 11:00PM.  The race kit includes the following:

• Official race number
• Route map
• Singlet
• Disposable timing chip

Baggage deposit service is available from 7:00PM to 2:00AM.

If you plan on joining this race register now to avoid the “last minute crowd.”  It would also be better for both the runners and organizers if we all have time to spare and not wait for the deadline, especially that the race kits are not immediately distributed.  You may download the registration form here courtesy of Kenny Rogers Roasters Online.

All I can say it that all things are going smoothly so far with this race, and if everything goes as the organizers planned, this may be one of the best races of the year.  If you have further enquiries about this race you may contact Vince Mendoza at (+63 2) 703 1736.