Saturday, September 13, 2008 Fun run hits the road By Marianne Saberon-Abalayan
REGISTRATION is open for the Merco 62nd Anniversary 3rd Fun Run set on October 19 in an out-and-back course at Merco Bolton branch.
Merco Group of Companies general manager Anthony "Anton" Ferrazzini in a press conference said registration forms are available at all Merco outlets, including the Bolton, Quirino and Cabaguio branches.
"We had some 900 runners last year. But we started in 2006 with just 400 entries. This year, we expect the turnout of entries to reach 1,000 or more because of the bigger cash prizes at stake for the 21-kilometer race," he said.
Ferrazini said the 21K event stakes P5,000 for the men's champion, P3,000 for the runner-up and P2,000 for the third placer while the women's top three finishers will pocket P4,000, P3,000 and P2,000.
The running event also features men's and women's 5K events that offer cash prizes to the first 10 runners and men's and women's 10K events where the top five finishers will also receive cash prizes.
"We have our biennial golf tournament in memory of my grandfather Anselmo Ferazzinni that will be held on Sept. 21 at the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club. We also hold the fun run because it caters to runners from all walks of life," Ferrazzini said.
"The fun run is very enjoyable. I enjoy it and so does my family. My kids run with me, too, although I must admit we do a lot of walking in the end," he added with a laugh.
First 1,000 registrants receive a free shirt.
The fun run is organized by Merco Mercantile Corporation with Selecta and Nestle Food Services as sponsors. It is officiated by the Davao Sunday Runners Club.
"Just like our golf tournament that is considered a feast with its traditional food galore, the fun run will also have the same brand of atmosphere. All runners will be treated with refreshments after the race," he said.
Registration fees are P50 for 5K, P100 for 10K and P150 for 21K.
