A Ravishing Day at XTERRA Pang Rave Run

XTERRA Pang Rave Run is the first leg of XTERRA races slated for this year all around the country. It was my first trail run for the year and it was one of the best races I’ve had recently. It was also my first trail run in a very long time, and I admit I really missed it a lot.

We normally don’t do photo booths, but this event’s an exception

XTERRA is one of the most sought after name when it comes to trail running and related multisport events, and I’ve long wanted to see what it was all about after hearing raves about its past events so I was delighted when I was invited to join their first leg, XTERRA Pang Rave Run, at the trails of Timberland in San Mateo, Rizal. It had been quite some time since my last trail run and it had been longer since I was last in Timberland so I almost felt like I was doing it for the first time. Adding to my excitement was the fact that I’d be running—well it was more jogging and picture-taking than running, with friends, some of which are doing it for the first time.

Skyline of Metro Manila as seen from Timberland

We arrived pretty early in Timberland and we were delighted to be greeted by a different set of crowd mostly composed of those doing multisport. XTERRA Pang Rave Run, being a trail run, naturally had a much smaller number of participants so everything was much more intimate—much like in my early days of running. It was different though that you see participants donning their tri-suits sans their bikes. 🙂

Earlier on, me and my friends had agreed to do the race in an overtly relaxed manner (also known as “picture-taking pace”) so there was absolutely no pressure on my behalf. I also didn’t desire to run the race fast since I haven’t been running long distances seriously. Because of this we had a lot of time to enjoy the sceneries, chat, and take pictures. I unfortunately left my point and shoot camera at the office (and didn’t want to risk my ILC in the trails) so I had no pictures during the race. (Special thanks to Gigi “The Fit Mommy Now” for being our photographer! :D)

XTRERRA Pang Rave Run is an excellent race. The trails of Timberland are really nice: not too difficult for beginners yet not too boring for the experienced and with a great view of most of Metro Manila; hydration was impeccable with a lot of supply of cold water and sports drink (Gatorade); and the participants themselves are filled with good vibes. It was very organized and the support from the sponsors was just overflowing. In short, everything exceeded expectations!

I just love this shot! Mountains and greens all around 🙂

Some of the unique points of this race are the outdoor shower for those who want to freshen up a little, the practically “bottomless” drinks from sponsors, and all the people in and around this race. It was like all the fun people were gathered in this race! If all races were like this, I’m sure everyone will want to race every weekend! But don’t just take my word for it—you too can enjoy that XTERRA experience as this race is just the first of many races XTERRA lined up for the year. Trust me, it’s worth it!