Tanods join the fun in Olango health run

THEY are known to offer their services to make sure runners are safe but that doesn’t mean they couldn’t get to enjoy the perks of a fun run when they get to try it for themselves.

In the fourth leg of Lapu-Lapu City’s comprehensive running program Health Run in Olango island, barangay tanods took to the streets not to man the race stations but to run the entire route.

Around 50 tanods from the eight barangays in Olango put aside their casual uniforms and put on their running shoes and jerseys as they took a break from work.

The tanods were encouraged by their captains to join the run in an attempt to get them fit. Aside from having fun, the tanods, who are mostly middle-aged, get to inspire others to start sweating it out.

“It’s a nice way to show those from the mainland that these tanods are engaged in this kind of activity,” said Lapu-Lapu City Councilor Harry Radaza.

The tanods were also joined by tricycle drivers from the Lapu-Lapu City Confederation of Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association Inc. who have taken part of the program since it started.

Some 400 runners trooped to Olango Island and it was the first time that it became part of the running program.

“We decided to include Olango as part of our tourism initiative development of the city,” said Radaza, who added it will also be included next year.

Most of the runners were neophytes in the islands and were treated to a 3K, 6K and 8K contest around the western portion of the island.

Runners also got to enjoy a Zumba exercise as a cooldown activity after the run.

After the Olango sojourn, the running series will be staged in Suba Basbas on Nov. 3, in Calawisan Babag on Nov. 10, in Basak on Nov. 17 and in Pajo on Nov. 24.

Those who will complete the eight legs will receive customized dog tags.