CEBU and Bukidnon bets are expected to give locals a run for their money when they see action in the Kadayawan Festival Run slated August 8 in an out-and-back along Roxas Avenue.
Kenneth Sai of Vantage Sports Promotions, speaking at the regular Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum at the Tower Inn Thursday, said Cebu will field seven runners and Bukidnon three.
"We will have to see come race day how they would fare against our early favorites the likes of Joselito Dugos and Monalisa Ambasa who will run in the 21K men's and women's open categories, respectively," Sai said.
He said some 1,200 entries have registered as of presstime and they are expecting the turnout to increase on the eve of the race.
"We are hoping to surpass the Araw ng Dabaw Run turnout of 2,800 where then re-electionist Sen. Pia Cayetano also ran. I believe more Dabawenyos have become running enthusiasts so it is very possible to hit our target," Sai said.
Registration is still ongoing at the Adidas specialty shop located at second floor of Gaisano Mall of Davao from 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Entry fee for 3K kiddies run for 12 years old and below and 5K fun run categories is pegged at P150 while 10K runners will have to pay P200 inclusive of runner's singlet, race bib, baller band and finisher's certificate.
The 21K entry fee of P250 is inclusive of runner's singlet, race bib, baller band and finisher's medal.
A total cash prize of P75,000 will be up for grabs in the footrace supported by Adidas, Motolite, C2 Green Tea and Gaisano Mall of Davao.
Part of the proceeds of the event will benefit the SOS Children's Village that had been the beneficiary of Sai's late father, Vic, who served as president of Davao City Sports Council Inc. for a long time.
"This is my second Kadayawan Run and I would like to continue my father's legacy of helping the SOS Children's Village," Sai said.
SOS representatives are expected to grace the race.
Interested runners may contact Sai at telephone numbers (082) 296-1300 or 296-2181 or mobile number (0921) 594-9303. (MLSA)