IT WAS a bright morning on August 8 when thousands flocked together along Roxas Road fronting Ateneo de Davao University to join the Kadayawan Festival Run organized by Kenneth Sai of Vantage Sports Promotions.
Presented by Adidas, around 4,377 participants came from different schools/universities, banks, running groups, fitness gyms, government and private offices, LGUs of Cebu, Tagum, Digos, Bukidnon, Kidapawan, and more.
Members of hotels and the Philippine National Police (PNP) were also present, including more than a hundred delegates from Stella Maris Academy of Davao (Smad) composed of students and teachers. I have also seen a lot of families with kids in tow.
The biggest delegation came from the University of Southeastern Philippines at a staggering 1,100.
Categories were the Hi Smart 3K Run, 5k Open and Age Groups (30-39 years old, 40-49 years old and above 50); the 10K Open and Age Groups ; and the 21k Half Marathon Open.
The marathon was off at 5:30 a.m. and I got to shoot them from various vantage points (precariously, like in the middle of the road while they were stampeding towards me) like the overpass in Victoria Plaza, Bajada.
The most fun thing to do was identifying distinct characters (one obvious pro ran barefoot) like the youngest, oldest, etc.
It was a great start to Davao's festivities and I shall be looking forward to covering the next marathon event. And no, I won't be running.
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Email writer at jojiealcantara@gmail.com or view her adventures at www.pbase.com/jojie_alcantara or jojiealcantaraphotography.com.