More than 200 athletes are expected to take part as the Philippines rolls out the red carpet for Southeast Asia’s elite outdoor enthusiasts in the sport of trail running this June.
The country is set to host the prestigious Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup in the mountainous tracks of Bontoc, Mountain Province from June 19 to 23.
Tin Ferrera, secretary general of the Philippine Trail Running Association and president of the Southeast Asian Trail Running Confederation, is elated about the country’s hosting of the meet.
“This event showcases to the world the Philippines as a sports tourism destination for trail running,” said Ferrera.
Medals will be at stake in four different categories, which include the Long Trail, Short Trail, Mountain Classic, and Vertical Uphill.
Participating countries from the region will also seek outteam championship crowns for the long and short trail categories.
The SEA Trail Running Cup is considered as highest level of mountain trail running in the region.
The top trail runners from eight countries across the region will be around to strut their skills and endurance in the challenging landscape and obstacles that abound in the Mountain Province.
The Philippines will be led by John Ray Onifa and Arnie Macaneras, who are Asia Trail Master Champions in 2022 and 2023 in the men’s division, respectively.
Asian Trailmasters 2023 runner-up Angelie Cabalo and Spartan Trail – Asia Pacific 2023 winner Elizabeth Dangadang are also coming.