World Balance Hurdle Gives You a Lightweight Running Experience

Posted on 21. January 2014 by Franc

” I grew up with World Balance as a common rubber shoes so seeing World Balance also now in the running world keeps me in touch with the much simpler world back then.  Trying it on, World Balance Hurdle gave me a lightweight feel while running which made it easier going the distance.”

If the Shoes Fit

World Balance Hurdle – Available Now for P1,999

When it comes to running having the right shoes is easier said than done.  There’s so much to consider.  A lightweight shoes can really add in speed and reduce leg fatigue because of the lighter weight.  Then there’s the cushioning which you need to protect the legs from the normal wear and tear of running.  Lastly, you have to check your foot type to determine if you need further support.  You have to balance several factors to get the shoes that brings you the optimal performance and reduce your propensity to injury.

“HURDLE is an ideal shoe for long-distance races, such as half-marathons or even a full marathon because it feels like you’re wearing nothing at all,” says Carlo Castronuevo, head of product marketing for World Balance. That’s because its outsole features a very lightweight High density compressed EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) that also gives it a good shock-absorbing property. The EVA also has rubber placed on the highest wear area which gives it added durability without putting on extra weight,” he adds.

Trying out New Balance Hurdle

Trying on the World Balance Hurdle.

I got my World Balance Hurdle last week and immediately went on a test run.   It usually takes my feet time to adopt to a new shoes and would take a few runs before I get used to new shoes but for World Balance Hurdle it felt comfortable at first use.  It has a TERRA-SOFT® Insole Technology that is comfortable, gives extra cushioning, is shock-absorbing, and is washable which secures the legs on each foot strike.  It comes with a resilient EVA foam that gives the shoe extra cushioning and durability.   The more obvious feature I noticed is being lightweight at 8 ounces.  I’m used to racing at shoes above 9 ounces so having a shoes at 8 ounces felt really light on the feet.  Imagine the savings with the weight of the shoes when you have thousands of steps within a run.  The upper material is made of breathable air mesh with microfiber overlays for added support. It also has a padded tongue and collar that provides for comfy fit. The lace-up front closure comes in brightly colored laces for a secure fit and premium “look”. Lastly, the textile lining allows for air to circulate freely.

Running around the neighborhood with World Balance Hurdle

My first run with World Balance Hurdle was a 10K Run around our neighborhood and since the shoes had the lightweight feel, it felt easy and was able to speed up during my run.  Aside from reduce stress from a lighter shoes, the cushioning of the TERRA-SOFT® Insole Technology had my knees and calf secured from the impact of the strides.  Even on the tail end of the run, my legs still felt relaxed due to the lighter shoes and the sufficient cushioning enabling me to finish strong.  I also had a  longer 12K run around Makati for my weekend run and as usual it was comfortable running with World Balance Hurdle.  It was fun running around Makati by foot and World Balance Hurdle can give you a good option when it comes to a reliable running shoes.

Exploring Makati By Foot with World Balance Hurdle

If you’ve been following my races, you’ll know that I am biased with flashy colors when it comes to shoes and that’s another thing I appreciate with World Balance Hurdle.  They come in flashy colors.  My hurdle is in shades of blue with a  neon green tongue and lace, which makes it noticeable by day and most especially during night runs which is the time I usually train.

The World Balance Hurdle is best for long distance runners doing half or full marathons which gives its wearer supreme lightweight experience while doing the distance.  The World Balance Hurdle is now available in World Balance stores and SM, Robinsons, and various department stores nationwide and priced at an affordable P1,999.

Follow World Balance

World Balance Facebook Page
Twitter: WorldBalancePH
Instagram: WorldBalancePH
Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: , , , | 80 Comments

The Zombie Journals: The Black Swan Zombie

Posted on 16. January 2014 by Franc

Behind the Beauty Comes a Vicious Member of the Horde – Photo by Joms Antonio

“There’s a thin line between passion and obsession and one ballerina crossed that line.  Her sterling performance in the opera has also brought her to be a part of the horde where she goes on a crazy streak with the meanest of the Outbreak Manila Zombies.”

Read about:

She had the beauty that can fill the opera house. – Photo from Outbreak Manila

Anne was one of the best ballerinas at her young age and was guided to be passionate about this by her guardian and Mentor Tezza.  Tezza always brought the best in her protégé and they had a wonderful relationship.  They were like family and a close confidant to each other.  Anne was among the first to know when the Surgeon James proposed to her and she felt happy for her mentor.

Anne found family in her mentor and his fiance James – Photo from Outbreak Manila

Her life would drastically change on Tezza’s wedding day.  Tezza was alone in the altar and James was nowhere to be found.  She felt Tezza’s pain and before she can comfort her mentor she was gone and never to be seen of again. Anne felt abandoned and she was never the same again. She found solace through another friend, a troubled clown named Joms.  In a way they were both disturbed over their past which made them instant friends but Joms went into a darker path and ended up breaking the law and paying for it with a life in Prison.  Anne was back to the abandoned feeling again.

A clown gave laughter back into her life.

She possess the beauty that can light up and fill the opera house but there were missing pieces in Anne’s life that has made her broken as a person and struggling as a performer.  She had the makings of the star and she dominated the stage when she was a child under the mentorship of Tezza.  She was mostly lost now that she was missing the comfort of her mentor and her best friend.  It showed in her performance.

Broken Yet Again. – Photo from Outbreak Manila

She vowed to back to her old self and her passion eventually became an obsession.  She wanted to be the star of the show again and she did everything to land the key parts from harassing her co-stars to finding ways to take the competition out.

She wanted to be a star at all cost – Photo from Outbreak Manila

On the eve of her performance, she finally landed the part with the rest of the alternatives missing.  She felt relieved and was gearing for the performance of her life.  As she was about to hit the stage, she saw Tezza again in her familiar wedding dress with James in his Surgeon’s Scrubs.  She finally felt complete and approached them. It was late of her to realize why Tezza has left and the eventual fate of James.  Tezza was turned a zombie as she left the wedding and the avenging bride first victim was James.  For some reason, Joms was with them in his Psycho Prison uniform who was also a part of the horde.  With Anne too invested on her role, she breached the line between passion, obsession and eventually insanity.  Was this an illusion or her wicked reality?  She approached her now zombie guardian but the Psycho Prisoner came charging in and for a brief moment he knew that she was his old friend but the savagery of the Psycho Prisoner Zombie took over and turned Anne into the Black Swan Zombie.

She was now a member of the horde – Photo from Outbreak Manila

She then went on the opera and gave them a performance of a lifetime but little did the people know that behind the mask was the Black Swan Zombie.  While people gave her the standing ovation after her splendid performance, she finally felt whole again but no longer as a person but as a member of the horde.  She pounced on the guests of the opera along with the Surgeon, the Bride Zombie and the Psycho Prisoner Zombie and the results were really brutal.

Animation by Meia Ramos Alvarez

Anne has now joined her guardian and her friend as they feasted during Outbreaks.  With her mask and her beauty as a deception, she has attracted her prey into eventually being her next meal.  Her passion and obsession have shifted from being just a star of the show to craving for those red flags like the claps she long when she was still the ballerina that dominated the stage.  Her crazy streak makes her a dangerous addition to the horde and the Black Swan Zombie was not only the star of the opera but also a star of the Outbreaks.

Don’t be too captivated by her beauty, she’s obsessed with those red flags your protect dearly.

Read about the other zombies and Outbreak Manila at the Zombie Journals Tab.  Please follow this site by liking the Francramon.com Facebook Page and OMZ – Outbreak Manila Zombies for more zombie Journals and future Outbreak Manila Updates.

Categories: My Stories, My Thoughts | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , | 108 Comments

Corregidor International Half Marathon 2014

Posted on 13. January 2014 by Franc

The CIHM Tradition lives on.

Distance: 21.1 Kilometers
Date: January 12, 2014
Venue: Corregidor Island
 
Read About:

“When it comes to epic races, CIHM will always be on top of my list.  The run takes you on different surfaces from the cemented roads, muddy trails, grassy airfields and stoney beach fronts that would have your eyes feasting on Corregidor’s natural raw beauty and rich heritage while your legs takes a beating from the continuous UpHELL climbs covering about 200 meters several times during the race.”

Corregidor International Half Marathon 2014

3rd Adventure at the Rock – Photo by Justin Gomez

Corregidor International Half Marathon has transformed from being a bucket list race to an annual adventure for me.   It’s not the easiest of races as it boast of an uphill terrain that feels like hell and spelled upHELL.  It has its upside with the really scenic natural wonders of Corregidor with the ocean view at the dock and the beach front, the grassy area at the airfield to the forested trails.  It also gives you an appreciation of the valiant past of the island being the fort that guarded Manila Bay in the past and as a result you are surrounded by historic and creepy attractions like the Malinta tunnel, the mile long barracks, the hospital, the lighthouse and numerous ruins, various batteries and military artifacts.  In the end, it’s the satisfaction of getting past 21.1 Kilometers in this terrain that makes each race here really special.  It’s only my second race of the year and probably the last before I do my full marathon next month so the goal was to run a safe race but ensure I get a good workout in the Rock.

Race Route and Elevation Profile

Race Route and Elevation Profile is powered by Suunto Movescount.

The race starts at the South Dock and proceeds immediately to Malinta Hill for a climb passing through Malinta Tunnel covering about 40 meters of elevation for the first two kilometers of the race.  The race then descends about 40 meters of elevation for the next kilometer approaching Corregidor Resort and ascends back to the Japanese Garden of Peace approaching the 4th Kilometer. The race terrain becomes rolling heading to the old airport at around kilometer 6 and goes back to the Garden of Peace approaching the 8th kilometer.  The 9th kilometers descends around 50 meters of elevation passing through the Malinta Tunnel and going through the dock again.  The race then goes up hill covering around 200 meters of elevation over the next 7 kilometers passing which includes the trails and the ruins of the mile long barracks and other historical attractions.  The race then descends 200 meters for the next 3 kilometers before the final steep uphill climb midway the 19th kilometer covering 60 meters of elevation.  The Race then descends back to Malinta Tunnel and then to the finish line at the other side of the dock.

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The Race

Windy Sunday Morning at the Start of the Race – Photo by Jeff Lo of Pinoyfitness

I took the option of the day tour wherein I have to take the ferry on the same day of the race.  We left Manila Bay at around 5:30 AM and arrived at Corregidor around 7:15 AM and to my surprise it was… WINDY and COLD.  I usually expect Corregidor to be a hot race because of the 8 AM gunstart but it was really windy so I took some time to warm up before the race while exchanging pleasantries with other racers at the starting line.  The opening prayer and the flag ceremony came with a presentation and everybody was awaiting the gun start to finally get the body warmed up from the windy weather.

Here We Go – Photo by LigPhoto

The first two kilometers felt the longest for me as I tried to start slow as my legs tend to be stiff at the start of the race and especially this one had the first two kilometers on an uphill terrain passing through the creepy Malinta Tunnel.  I started with a 2:1 run walk interval until my legs warmed up and felt some pains on my left leg at the first kilometers of the race.  As I saw the descent heading to the Corregidor Resort, I reserved my leg strength and accelerated on the descent which was about a full kilometer before resting again on the way back to the top going to the 4th kilometer.

Climbing Time – Photo by Jeff Lo of Pinoyfitness.com

The next four kilometers approaching the airport and back would be under a rolling terrain so I distributed my effort and tried to catch up with the rest by cruising through the descents and running the moderate climbs and walking the extreme ones.  The hydration at the airfield also had a refreshing Coco Fresh Buko Juice.  By this time, it was either I’ve already used to the pain or my leg has already warmed up so I was able to speed up a bit going back and heading back to Malinta Tunnel to wrap up the first half of the race.

It’s an uphill adventure. – Photo by LigPhoto

The second part of the race started around kilometer 9 and it involved around 7 kilometers worth of climbs.  The steeper part would be the first 1.5 kilometer of the run which was mostly brisk walking for me.  By the 11th kilometer, I was able to catch up with Jeff Lo of Pinoyfitness and his friends. I paced with them for most of the climbing part.  I also like that the hydration station here also had marshmallows.  This was the more scenic part of the race so we all spent a lot of time taking photos here.

Got to love trails – Photo by Jeff Lo of Pinoyfitness

The drill was to run on the descents and the moderate climbs and stop for photos at the historic attractions. Little by little we were eating up the kilometers with this routine.   It has now shifted to a chill run yet at the same time we still get to exert efforts on the runs.   It was nice to see the mile long barracks, the trails, the hospital and the lighthouse at this part.

Ready for War with the Pinoyfitness Gang. – Photo from Pinoyfitness

At the tail end of climb was the top side of the Mile Long Barracks and the ruins was really a visual delight though I wouldn’t want to be in this area at night as it has the creepy feel too.

Running at the top side of the barracks. – Photo by Justin Gomez

The next part was the 3 kilometer descent from the peak of Corregidor to the highway by the ocean.  It was time to put in some speed here. I went on faster though was still cautious as the downhill terrain is also tough on the knees.  This felt like a breeze and I know once I hit the bottom and see that magnificent view of the sea along the highway and the rock formation, the next part is the surprise.

The calm before the pain-fest

This is the part which makes Corregidor a tough man’s race as after being treated to a splendid view you get to see a climb like no other.  The next part is over a kilometers worth of a very steep killer climb.  Oh well, a journey to the steepest climb begins with a single step followed by another and another… It was a crawl and it was really tough as even cars would have a hard time at this incline but even the pain-fest has to end as once you reach the top of the hill, it’s all downhill and a creepy Malinta Tunnel going to the finish line.  It’s time to give one final push to the finish.

Approaching the finish line – Photo by LigPhoto

It’s always satisfying approaching the finish line and it was another adventure and another epic story again for Corregidor International Half Marathon.  I always say that this is the race that you’d probably telling your grand kids when you reach that time and here’s my third version of this adventure.  Great Job to the Big Big Big team, Edward Kho and Raymund Martelino and all the marshals as we were well taken cared of during the race and yes, see you next year (January 17, 2015 for Corregidor Marathon and January 18, 2015 for Corregidor International Half Marathon) for another adventure.

And the finish line… – Photo by Justin Gomez

3 Years of CIHM

3 years of CIHm, 3 different medals, 3 different stories.

Race Photos in the following Facebook Pages:

GoPro Video of CIHM 2014

 

Thanks to Dans Bike Shop and Go Pro Philippines for lending me the GoPro 3 to document the race.

Categories: My Runs | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , | 161 Comments

WeChat 5.1 is Now Here

Posted on 13. January 2014 by Franc

“With the entry of smart phones and messaging apps, the world have become a much smaller place since people can share thoughts, pictures, conversations and games at an instant.  WeChat Upgrades to Version 5.1 for an even more entertaining interaction among friends, families and new acquaintances.”

It’s a Mobile World

In terms of users and frequency of usage, the Philippines is a powerhouse when it comes to messaging and mobile apps.  This can be attributed to the closely knit culture of the Country and that we regularly interact as friends as family through the different social channels and keep ourselves up-to-date with the latest in news and the recent developments.  Our mobile hand phones has been our constant companions since it keeps us close to our family and friends through communication and keeps us occupied on our idle times with games and other apps.  It’s also an extension of our personality as we get to share photos, updates and the never-ending stories we have grown to do with family and friends is now within our fingertips.  It’s no wonder that WeChat is the most-searched social messaging app according to Google Trends in Philippines, ahead of key competitors2 and the 3rd most searched item in general.

WeChat is the most-searched social messaging app in the world.

WeChat 5.1

WeChat is an innovative mobile social communications application designed for smartphone users.  WeChat is free for download from app stores running on Android, BlackBerry, iOS, Symbian and Windows Phone operating systems*.  It is the most downloaded mobile social app in many markets with more than 100 million registered accounts in international markets.  It keeps us connected and entertained by their in applications interface.  Download WeChat’s latest 5.1 update and read on to know more about how WeChat skyrockets excitement to your every day with its latest feature such as Games, which lets you challenge your friends with fun and addictive games while you’re on the move.

Play-by-Play Updates by the Country’s Top Searched App

Games

Games is really a great way to have fun and at the same time interact with our friends and WeChat 5.1 rolls out the game features where you can challenge your friends and have fun together.

Gunz Dash, one of the pioneering titles of WeChat Games, lets players choose their favorite heroes and let them embark on exciting adventures in a fantasy universe. Whether in solo or multiplayer mode, users can speed through worlds and collect coins for a high score in this exciting 2D animated, side-scrolling race game. Plus point: Gunz Dash’s setting can be customized to activate music and sound effect to enhance the gaming experience.(Official site: http://games.wechat.com/gunzdash/)

2 Day’s Match, on the other hand, is a brand new casual puzzle game which works by matching two tiles of same kind. Challenge yourself by clearing all pairs and work your way to win the crown. 2Day’s Match users can switch from playing in solo stage mode to multiplayer mode which allows you to spark matches with your friends or people nearby. (Official site: http://games.wechat.com/2daysmatch/)

To take the puzzle gaming further, WeChat’s second title Craz3 Match makes players match tiles in groups of three and eliminate some seriously cute animals. Users can also boost their scores with magical items like Quick Hint, Shark, Time Reverse, Unlock, and Level Up to boost their points against other players. (Official site: http://games.wechat.com/craz3match/)

Wreckless Racer that will be available soon on WeChat Games, is a new speed racing game with cutting-edge graphics and heart-pounding actions for the ultimate thrill to the finishing line!

Group Chat

WeChat 5.1 also comes with enhanced features which allow users to support the latest platforms of iOS and Android, use group messaging to converse with a regular of 40 users or join at most two sized-up group chats with up to 100 users each.

StoryCam

Tell your story with StoryCam for WeChat (Official site: http://camera.wechat.com) ! You can use your own words to describe the ‘what’, ‘where’ and ‘when’ of your photos with this exclusive app. With festival watermarks, filters and real-time location based information, you can now personalize and share any moment. Download StoryCam for WeChat for free and start telling your photo stories!

Features of StoryCam for WeChat include:

  • Choose from five photo themes: Featured, Place, Weather, Food and Lifestyle
  • Enhance photos with up to 13 free filters
  • Receive real-time location, weather and date updates
  • Edit your location and stories
  • Place watermarks wherever you want on your photos
  • Share photos easily with WeChat friends, on Moments or by email

And Here’s More:

  • Edit ‘Favorite Messages’ – Save your favorite text and voice messages, photos and videos to ‘Favorite Messages’- the first cloud-based storage service on mobile social communication apps – to view and share again anytime. You can edit and add new content to saved messages in any way you want.
  • Register with Email Address – You have more choices to connect with WeChat – you can register with your email address to start chatting with friends.
  • Gmail Contact Integration – Link to your Google account, find out who else is using WeChat and add them to your friends list.
  • Supports Latest Smartphone iOS Platforms – WeChat 5.1 is optimized to support the latest versions on both iOS and Android.

Download WeChat 5.1 Now!

The latest WeChat 5.1 and StoryCam for WeChat are now available for both Android and iOS users. Visit www.wechat.com for the latest information. WeChat users can add friends via a wide range of innovative actions and methods, including scanning QR codes, connecting users’ phone books and activating location-based functions such as “People Nearby” and “Shake”.  The platform enhances social interaction by supporting exchanging of text, voice and video, stickers, and photos with their friends over data networks or under Wi-Fi environments.  Users can choose to communicate one-on-one, or within their closed social network through “Moments”.  WeChat also comes with comprehensive privacy setting functions, which enables user to tailor their security level as needed.  WeChat can keep your interactions with friends and family continuous amidst time and distance through its chat, games and story cam app.

Follow WeChat

Webpage: http://www.wechat.com
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/WeChatPH
Twitter: @WeChatPH

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , | 71 Comments

Your Dream Destination is Just a Click Away with #Contiki

Posted on 8. January 2014 by Franc

“Don’t live life dreaming about it, Live it!”

We have our own bucket list and I’m lucky enough to tick off some early.  I was able to be mesmerized by the grandeur of Paris.  I was able to play around with the Koalas and Kangaroos of Australia. I was able to hang-out beside the windmills of Holland. I was able to run a half marathon appreciating the ancient  wonders of Angkor Wat. I was awed by the beautiful night sky of Singapore, Shanghai, Macau, Taiwan and Hong Kong.  Before, people worked their whole life then retire and enjoy the beauty of travel.  Time has changed.  It’s time for people to explore the world while they are at their prime and have a lifetime of travel ahead of them.  We learn so much appreciating different cultures and we evolve to be more aware of the world as a whole. 

How about you, what’s your dream Vacation?

Do you want to see the Eiffel Tower up close? Or visit the lavish structures of Versailles?  Or visit the famed Notre Dame Cathedral?  Paris is one of the top attraction and it goes beyond the Eiffel Tower.  It’s seeing centuries old buildings all around. It’s appreciating a variety of dishes coming from multitude of cultures. It’s finding the artist in you while visiting the Louvre or going over the Artists Village in Montmarte.  It’s being awed by the grandeur of Versailles.  It’s getting lost in the city and finding your way back through their subway system.  It’s waiting for the sun to set at 11 pm.  It’s having a cup of coffee while chilling at Champs Elysee.  Paris is really everyone’s dream destination.

Do you want to visit Amsterdam and enjoy their consistent cool climate being situated under the sea level?  Then there’s the unique housing structures that tend to lean on each other for support.  There’s the picture perfect view around windmill houses.  You’ll also be amazed by their various industries from shoe clogs to cheese to diamonds to tulips.  Then there’s all the fun that happens at night at Amsterdam.  Amsterdam has indeed a lot of wonderful places to offer.

Is a trip down under appealing to you where you can play around with those cute Koalas and the Kangaroos? Or you can enjoy the famous fine white sands of Bondi and Manly Beach?  There’s also that picturesque view of the Sydney Opera House that blends perfectly with the deep blue color of the  Sydney Harbor.  You can also go outdoors while enjoying the Blue Mountains, the Three Sisters and the Jenolan Caves or go hardcore going on top of the Sydney Harbor Bridge.   You can enjoy the city at night with the various clubs and food places.  Of course, you can also go on an Outback Adventure at the outskirts of Australia.  The adventure and the pleasant lifestyle makes Australia also a great destination.

Does visiting temples of Angkor appeal to you?  Siem Reap, Cambodia is the home of Angkor Wat with temples constructed between the 10th to 13th Century.  The Khmer Empire of Cambodia stands strong to this day through the heritage temples like Angkor Wat.  There’s the mountain-like four-faced structure of the Bayon Temple and it’s surrounding temples in Angkor Thom. There’s the Tomb Raiding attraction of Ta Prohm that shows the fusion between ancient infrastructure and nature co-existing through the centuries.  There’s Bantaey Srey that rivals the Angkor Structure and has intricate carvings to boot. There’s the multitude of cultures in Cambodia that can make it a great destination for visitors.

Then there’s still a lot of travel destinations that you can visit.  It can be a country hopping tour around Europe or Asia and explore the different sights, enjoy the different cuisines and appreciate the variety of culture.  At this point, I’d say stop dreaming as your dream vacation may just be a click away.   Travel goes for all ages so whether you’re 18-35 or even older, there’s a travel destination that would be perfect for you and your budget and this is where the years of expertise of Contiki can help.  Visit Contiki (http://www.contiki.com/) and check their various travel offerings.

” Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.

You only have one life, One shot, So make it count #NOREGRETS “

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: , , , , , , , | 145 Comments

Color Manila Run 2014 #Colormanila2014

Posted on 6. January 2014 by Franc

Before and After the Colorful Mayhem – Photos by Jeff Lo for Pinoyfitness.com

Distance: 10 Kilometers

Date: January 5, 2014

“ Start the year the colorful way!  With the early morning skies of Bonifacio Global City enveloped by assortment of colors,  Color Manila Run 2 gave everybody a solid workout and a colorful visual display to welcome 2014.”

Happy Colorful 2014 New Year!!! Photo by KB Runner for Photo-ops

Read about:

Happy Colorful New Year!!!

Not only colorful… but really FUN!!! – Photo by KB Runner of Photo-ops

I’ve been raving about Color Manila Run 2 since November when the event was launched because it’s already getting to be a tradition of starting the year the colorful way.  Color Manila Run is a cross between a good workout and having a really fun time doing it.  It can give a first time runner a fulfilling first medal and a memorable run.  It can also give experienced runners a chance to build on their mileage and start their running year on a positive note. We started squeaky clean and ended up being a colorful masterpieces.  Here’s a colorful toast to cheerful 2014 and my first post in 2014 too!

Race Course

Race Route powered by Suunto Movescount

The race is the same as the previous year which I can divide as the fun zone and the race zone.  The first fun zone is the first 3 kilometers along the International School Area passing through the Pink, the Blue and the Yellow color stations.  The second fun zone would be the last 2 kilometers is the 8th Avenue to the finish line passing through the Purple, the Green and the Orange color station.  Kilometer 4 to 8 is the race zone where you can try to do a faster split and falls on the other half of Bonifacio Global City passing through 11th Ave going to Rizal Drive and back via 39th Street and 5th Avenue.  The course is relatively flat though there are some elevation gains and losses which can add or reduce effort in the run.

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The Race

Yes, this is just a chill run!

I was at the race area really early as I don’t want to get the usual parking problems with over 5,000 participants for Color Manila Run 2.  Since I was early, I was able to say hi to some of my running friends and organizers who are also in the area.  The mood was really festive even an hour before the race as people were upbeat in doing their first run of the year and have fun doing it with the color explosion that’s about to happen.  The plan was to do a solid 8K run and enjoy the last 2 kilometers playing in the color station.   I ended up being part of the second wave of 10K runners to be launched which would be unleashed a few minutes from the first wave.  Since this is just a chill run, I didn’t mind starting a little bit later.  After the first wave had their gun start, we got our own start a few minutes later and bang…

Arising from a large cloud of Yellow – Photo by Running Photographers.

Since the legs was a bit warm already, I didn’t hold back at the start and slowed down only to enjoy the color stations since I was also judging on which color station would be the most creative and entertaining.  The first station was Pink which replaced the dark morning skies with a hue of pink. The next was the blue station which had costumed super heroes throwing color powders at you.  After the blue station, I added some speed and met some running friends (Titanium Runner and Enrico Caramay) who I chatted a bit on the walk intervals.  The next color station came like a large cloud of yellow and it was an awesome sight.

Chatting with some friends on the walk intervals. – Photo by Spongebob Runner

After crossing back to other side of the course, it was time to enjoy the race on the fast lane and tried to do my splits faster heading to 11th Avenue and Rizal Drive and back.  This part felt exhilarating and felt like a breeze but this is the part I like about Color Manila Run, while it’s mostly a fun run, it can give you a really good sweat if you choose to.  I also wanted to finish in time for the color powder toss ceremony.   This is the way I want to start my year, having a good sweat and a solid workout so I enjoyed this stretch before heading to the fun part.

It’s time to have fun! – Photo by Tara Trip Tayo

Approaching this area, I would need to assess the next 3 color station and eventually choose who would be the best.  So I hit on the breaks and enjoyed the last two kilometers.  It was congested in this area as a lot of people are just having fun playing around the color stations, throwing powder at each other, doing selfies and lying around the powders.  The Purple station had a lot of people playing around while the Green station had nice costumes. Approaching the end of 8th Avenue for the final U-turn, there was a fiesta setup for the Orange station and a lot of people enjoying the station. After seeing the last station, I knew that the Orange was the winner based on the criteria.  I then headed to the finish while enjoying the color stations again on my way back.

10K Complete

I completed my 10K and got my medal. I got my color packet and was still able to chat with some friends before the powder toss ceremony.  The color visual display with thousands of fun-loving participants tossing powder to envelope the skies was just AWESOME.  It’s the Color Manila Way of saying, Happy Colorful 2014!  Great job Proactive Sports for another great Color Manila Run.

Color Fever – Photo by Photo-ops

I’m still not out of the color fever so I went back in the route to pass some time and enjoy the color stations once again and also a chance to have photos like this.

Jumping High for 2014! – Photo by RJ Knight Runner for Running Photographers

Post Race Meal

Breakfast at Grams with Fellow OMZs

And the Color Fever Continues

How was your #ColorManila2014 Experience? For those still having the color fever, the fun does not end there as Color Manila Nite Run 2 is happening February 22, 2014.  See you there!!

For more photos visit the following Facebook Pages:

Categories: My Runs | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , | 137 Comments

Year of the Franc – 8

Posted on 31. December 2013 by Franc

Finding Ways out of the Wood

“ I’ve spent the last day of 2013 getting lost in the woods and eventually finding my way out.  I guess it’s how my 2013 was, it had highs but it also had its share of challenges that needs adjustment and action and eventually finding my way out of those situations.”

 

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Year of the Franc

So how do you measure a year? I guess every year I write this posts, it gets a bit harder measuring the year.  For one, I have so many avenues to measure and somehow, the prevailing challenge towards the second half of the year has drastically shifted my lifestyle.  The simpler part of the story is that there are now priorities and there are things that are priceless and critical so for now all the resources are earmarked for that purpose.  I know it’s quite cryptic so if you see me mostly on stingy mode, it’s not because I want to, it’s because I need to.  I’m sure the time will come and this battle shall be won and with me being back to my usual self.  All battles are won and I’m positive that this too shall end and all the sacrifice will be worth it.  Aside from that, there’s a lot to be thankful of from a closer family relationships to friends who’s always around through thick and thin and a continuous flow of blessings.  There’s always a lot to be thankful for.


My Life

2013 has been a climb!

2013 was a busy year for me from managing work, life, multi-sports training, social media, travel and my constant visit at home for my mother’s medical procedures.  Being busy is always my norm ever since. I may not be as visible as before or have the luxury of time to attend all those meet ups I used to organize but I’ll always be around in times of need.  My life has been much simpler and less on the fast lane. I now allow myself some time for rest too.  I guess that’s the thing that comes with age though I’ll always be the multitasking and crisis solving persons on all fronts.


My Thoughts

2013 is the second year of Francramon.com and it has reached over 265,000++ page with about 14,000 hits per month.  I also re-branded the site with the new logo made by Meia Ramos Alvarez for a more dynamic look.  I also opened Francramon.com page this year and has reached 1,000++ likes.  It has now evolve to be an all around site for travel, fitness and everything in between including zombie outbreaks.  I also had a lot of highly successful social media campaign with the Zombie Journals featuring the Outbreak Manila Zombies lording over the hits.  Francramon.com was also able to help promote several runs and products during the year as well as successfully conduct several promos and giveaways.  It’s also nice to host the Filipino Bloggers Worldwide for the second year in a row.  I’m sure that community would grow further in the coming years.


My Travel

Bucket List Check Batanes

When you are able to tick off an item on your bucket list like spending 6 full days in Batanes and exploring the place on bike and on foot aside from the usual tour, you can say it’s a good year. I was also fortunate enough to win a trip and a run in Siargao for Siargao It Up! and was also able to do a half marathon in Hong Kong and Cambodia.  I was also able to climb to the Summit of Mt. Batulao with the Beghaus Team.  That’s not to mention my regular trips to Taiwan, Singapore, Subic, Clark and my hometown in Baguio.  I guess the good part of the year was I was able to entertain both my passion for travel and running.

 

My Runs

Running All Over the Place

It was a full year of running with 321.8 kilometers worth of racing spread over 23 races including 9 half marathons and 1 indoor Duathlon with about 2,600 kilometers worth of run and bike training.  While the distance was there, it was a roller coaster year for me as I had to deal with several injury including being off for almost a month after a bad bike fall.  I guess, it’s not how many times you fall but it’s how many times you find your way up.  In terms of destination, it was really a nice list as it had me having several international and out of town runs aside from the usual ones at the metro.  It was also nice to be part of the new concept of Outbreak Manila and Outbreak Mission and having great friends in the Outbreak Manila Zombies.  I also registered for my first full marathon in 2014 in the TBR Dream Marathon and I’ve been loving the journey.  That explains the numerous half marathons during the year.  It’s 6 weeks to go and I’m all challenged and all excited for the conclusion of this one.

My Challenges

 

Work was challenging. Finances were challenging. Managing time was challenging.  For some time, I was stuck in the middle of managing things and getting things done.  There was a period of adjustment but this is where I work best – under pressure and in crunch time.  There were times I felt lost but at the end of the day, I find my way back up and raring to go.  Somehow, 2013 ends on a challenging note and 2014 would still start on a challenging front too but just like any challenges I’ve dealt with, let me say just bring it! When the clock struck 12 midnight, there’ll be no more excuses, only me finding ways and means out of the woods.

It’s always easier on the way down but it’s the view from the top that keeps people thriving through the hard climb.

A Message of Thanks

Thanks to everybody from friends, family, workmates, fellow runners, fellow OMZs, fellow bloggers and all those who contributed in my year and has always supported me.  See you in 2014!!!

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: , , , , , , , | 112 Comments

Incoming: 100 Islands 100K International Ultramarathon

Posted on 27. December 2013 by Franc

“Alaminos and Bolinao owns the best stretches of beaches and islands in the country and you can explore both places via the 100 Islands 100K International Ultramarathon happening this March 15-16, 2014.  If you have what it takes to conquer the distance, this would be a very visually enticing race for ultra marathoners out there.”

Life’s a Beach

100 Islands is really a scenic attraction.  I’ve been there twice and it’s just amazing how the different clusters of island have different features to admire.  There are fine white sand beaches.  There are raw undeveloped islands.  There are those with great rock formation and a whole lot more.  The waters are clear and has been a great getaway point for families and friends.  What if I tell you that you can enjoy a tour of 100 islands and still get to explore the rest of Alaminos via a 100K and 50K Ultra marathon event?  Here’s more the other end of the course is Bolinao, which has one of the best raw beaches available and you get to see the historical Bolinao church too along the way.  Enter 100 Islands International 100K Ultra Marathon offering both 100K and 50K distances with the 50K runners starting in Picucubuan Wharf in Bolinao and finishing at Lucap Wharf in Alaminos while the 100K runners starts in Alaminos takes a u-turn in Bolinao on the way back to Alaminos via  the Alaminos-Bami Road.  100 islands 100K International Ultra Marathon is Happening on March 15-16, 2014.

The elevation is flat but the distance is definitely a challenge.   It’s not a race for everybody too as there are some pre-qualifications which is finishing a full marathon like MILO, Condurra, QCIM, Subic, CAMSUR. 50K from Itogon Challenge, TNF, Baguio-Benguet Marathon, BDM 160, BDM 102, Ilocos Ultra and any other recognize foreign marathon and ultramarathon.  If you have no qualifying race, state the reason why you should be allowed to participate for assessment by the race director.  There will also be cut-off times which is 18 hours for 100K and 10 hours for 50K.   All 100K runners must pass through the Bolinao Church at 7hrs.  The course is going to go on Cemented/asphalted road and the weather conditions during the period would be cool in the early morning, hot between 7 to 9 am and hottest at about 10 am -3 pm.  This race is gonna be a visual treat for those who’ll brave the distance and this is probably one of the better ways to appreciate the tour of Alaminos and Bolinao.

This would be both a run and a way to appreciate the views and attraction of Alaminos and Bolinao and also includes a tour around the 100 islands.

Race Details:

  • Date: March 15-16, 2014
  • Race Venue:
    • 100K – Start at Lucap Wharf in Alaminos City, Pangasinan
    • 50K – Start at Picucubuan Wharf in Bolinao
  • Assembly Time:
    • 100K Saturday, 7 pm, 15 March 2014 (Lucap Wharf)
    • 50K: Sunday, 2 am, 16 March 2014 (Picucubuan Wharf)
  • PreRace Briefing:
    • 100K:  8:30 pm, 15 March 2014
    • 50K: 2:30 am, 16 March 2014
  • Gun Start:
    • 100K: Saturday, 9 pm, 15 March 2014
    • 50K: Sunday, 3 am, 16 March 2014
  • Cut-off
    • 18 hours (100K)
    • 10 hours (50K)
  • Aid Stations
    • Aid Station 1 (AS1) located at KM50 from the Start /Finish line. Food/H20
    • Aid Station 2 (AS2) at the junction going to the Falls
    • Aid Station 3 (AS3) more or less KM 70
  • Registration
    • Registration: Via email to renderfarmsports@gmail.com (single entry per runner). Required details are full name, gender, birthdate, contact number, email address, qualifying race, shirt size, contact person and number in case of emergency in that order. In the subject of your email, please type HI-100 for easy access.
    • Registration fee: 100K – PHP 3,500 (USD 100) 50K – Php3,000 (75USD)  non-refundable and non-transferrable.
      • NOTE: Registration is only confirmed and complete when payment has been made. 
      • Please pay through BDO Acct # 5470348017 under Renderfarm Graphics.
      • Please scan and email the deposit slip to the RD for validation.
      • Please keep and show the deposit slip when claiming the race packet.
    • Deadline for registration and payment: 30 January 2014 at 4PM. No on-site registration.
    • Upon confirmation of your qualifying entry you will receive an email which shows your Running Number. Print this email together with your deposit slip and present them to Renderfarm staff to collect your running number and race packet at Lucap Wharf during the Carboloading party.
  • Getting to Alaminos
    • FROM MANILA- take FIVE STAR BUS going to Alaminos bus terminal. From there take tricycle going to Lucap Wharf.
    • FROM CLARK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – take bus going to Dagupan. From Dagupan take bus going to Alaminos. From Alaminos take tricycle going to Lucap Wharf.
    • Travelling by Car – use SCTEX coming from Manila or South. From Dagupan you will pass Sacuny, Sual, Labrador and Alaminos roads.
  • Important Rules
    • Littering is absolutely prohibited and is a valid ground for outright disqualification (DQ). Keep your waste and dispose them properly.
    • Runners must follow the race course as marked. No short cuts or cutting corners to avoid disqualificiation.
    • Runners must sign the waiver with medical certificate and be able to present the mandatory gear before being allowed to proceed to the start line.
    • Pacers are not allowed.
    • Support Vehicle’s (SV) registration is mandatory.  SV must stop 100 meters before giving any assistance. SV should take caution not to impede, block or disrupt the operation of the aid station or the ingress and egress of runners. SV must not follow or run side by side with the runner to avoid accident. SV may assist other runner in case of emergency.
    • A Runner must not in any way go inside to sit, eat, sleep and have a massage in their support vehicle. More so touching or clinging to the vehicle while running (cheating has no room in this race). Do not use the SV to change clothes or socks.
    • Aid stations strategically located along the course with fluids and food are exclusive for runners.
    • Rain or shine, the race will proceed.
    • Runners and their crew, if any, must be always courteous to the local community. Avoid unncessary contact or communication. Any documented report of discourtesy or unruly behavior will be a ground for DQ.
    • A runner must inform the race officials through his/her support crew if intending to discontinue the race.
    • This is a road race  and each runner must be very carefull with the traffic condition along national highways. All participants must run against the traffic.
    • Race Kit will be given during the Welcome Party or Carbo Loading Party.  Only the runner is allowed for a free tour to the island hopping.  A non-participant can not go with the boat tour unless he/she paid the corresponding fee at the Tourism office.
    • Trekking poles are allowed but optional. Runners may include trekking poles in their drop bags to be accessed in AS1.
    • The following will be checked before proceeding to the start line:
      • Fully-charged working mobile phone containing the number of the RD +639222604201. It is required that mobile phone is on at all times during the duration of the race.
      • Water carrier (bladder, hand-held bottles, etc.) of at least 500ml.
      • Head Lamp – with fresh batteries
  • Race Maps

100K Race Map

50K

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , | 98 Comments

#NeverStop Holiday Fitness Tips From Yurbuds

Posted on 21. December 2013 by Franc

“It’s the season to be jolly but despite the busy schedule filled with parties, Christmas shopping and traffics, there is still a room for fitness in the season as your favorite yurbuds Ambassadors share their fitness tips for the holidays.”

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Staying fit during the holiday season is such a big riddle with a myriad of events from reunions to parties and get together.   Then there’s the unending traffic and the last minute shopping for Christmas Gifts.  So where do you squeeze in the fitness lifestyle you’ve grown to love and lived by the past 11 months.  #Neverstop working out, it may not be the same volume or the same distance but make it matter.  I myself have been down to 2-3 per week from the usual 6 workouts a week but I try not to miss my long run and at least go for one or two decent short ones on weekdays.  Getting back into shape is difficult after those zero workout weeks.  Your timing is off. Your muscle memory is out of sync and your endurance takes a dive.  Consistency is really important in maintaining the proper rhythm and conditioning for the rigors of a sporty lifestyle. What can you do to stay in shape even as you give more time to the season of giving? The hard-working yurbuds ambassadors share some effective tips.

Coach Ani De Leon – Brown

Coach Ani de Leon-Brown: Run 1 hour or bike 1.5hrs early in the morning to start the day right. At the party buffet pick a little bit of your favorite food items so you at least get to taste them and there’s no need to pile on a whole lot of food cause your cravings are satisfied already.

Coach Andy Leuterio

Coach Andy Leuterio: Set a minimum number of workouts for the week. If you can’t maintain your normal daily frequency, at least stick with a handful of sessions. Just don’t let an entire week go by without a single workout or you’ll have a hard time getting back on track. For triathletes, go for time saving  double- or triple-workouts so you maintain muscle memory. Keep the intensity fairly high so you burn more calories and work more muscle fibers. As for food, I’d recommend loading more greens and proteins so you feel more full instead of piling your plate with carbs.

Nikko Huelgas

Elite triathlete Nikko Huelgas: Book yourself for a race around January. Or in my case,   always think about your first race of the year when you wake up. Try to make sure that it can be your best race in the year. You might as well start now. It’s getting closer! Besides, food tastes more delicious and guilt-free after a hard workout!

Kuya Kim Atienza

“Kuya Kim” Atienza: It’s okay to eat all the Christmas stuff, but eat in moderation. Allow yourself to gain just 5 pounds so it’s less painful coming back to train for the coming race season.

Effective time management and smart eating habits will let you stay in good shape even when the party season goes into high gear! And with yurbuds to keep you company during workouts you’ll be sure to #neverstop having a blast!

Have fun during the Christmas Season.

Give the gift of yurbuds this Christmas! Thinking of what to gift your friends and loved ones? Let this be your guide.

Inspire for Women / Inspire Pro for Women (P1,500/P3,000): This size-specific model comes in a variety of fun, feminine colors. The Inspire Pro comes with a 3-button mic for added functionality.

Inspire Pro (P3,000): This versatile model has a 3-button mic to let you take calls and control the music while on the go.

Inspire Limited (P4,800): Tangle-free, reflective Kevlar cords and a Triple Magnet design give this model added durability and awesome sound quality.

Check out their line of athlete-inspired products at participating retailers, and join the community with the Facebook page Cascos Inc., yurbudsph on Twitter and Instagram, and share your workouts with the Twitter hashtag wneverstop!

Categories: My Thoughts | Tags: , , , , , , , | 113 Comments

Tomb Raiding and Temple Running at Cambodia

Posted on 18. December 2013 by Franc

The Scenic View from the Moat fronting Angkor Wat

“The rich heritage of the Khmer Empire stands to this day through the temples of Angkor and just seeing the massive structures with its  intricate designs is a testament of how the ancient infrastructure stood out through time and gives you an appreciation of their glorious past.”

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Angkor

Angkor – Map from TourismCambodia.Org

Since we had two days to spare before the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon, we might as well go around and tour the place.  Our resort, Cockatoo Nature Resort arranged everything for us.  The first day of the tour had us visiting the Major Temples which is Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm and awaited sunset at Pre Rup with the night reserved for the Cambodia Circus and dinner at Pub Street.  The next day was to visit the outer temples like Bantaey Samre and Bantaey Srey which was about 38 kilometers from Siem Reap before going back to see the other temples like Ta Som, Nak Phean, Preah Khan before heading back to Siem Reap for the Cambodia Cultural Show.  That two day did require a lot of walking, climbing and a lot of Sunshine so I came prepared with my favorite walking shoes which is Skora.

Skore Rises Above the Ruins

Me think Skora is the best walking shoes.  I got a Base RO1 System when it was on sale and I like it for its flashy colours. Yes, this tomb raider and temple runner wants his shoes lightweight, fast, flashy and comfortable.   It can be go with or without socks and has a X-Strap System for easy fitting. It has an ortholite insoles which makes it comfortable for the feet.  Two days using Skora despite all the walking had my feet fresh and still ready to run the half marathon the next day.

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat – Constructed Early to Mid 12th Century

Angkor Wat is the most popular temple and centerpiece of Angkor attracting troves of Visitors as early as sunrise because of the magnificent combination of the ancient Angkor Wat temple, the moat surrounding it and the rising sun.  Angkor Wat is surrounded by a moat which makes it even more scenic as you go around the outer exterior of the temple.  The place even gets better as you slowly enter the interior of Angkor Wat as you see three massive temple mountains and a lot of carvings that tells a story of the ancient times.  It culminates in the upper areas of the temples, which was a holy ground at the time it was the Capital City of the Khmer Empire.

You gotta love the Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Bayon Temple

Bayon Temple – Constructed late 12th Century

Bayon is the centerpiece temple of the Angkor Thom area.  Bayon consist of 37 standing towers, most of which having four carved faces.  The Bayon Temple towers in the Angkor Thom area which also makes it one of the more popular temples in Angkor.  A tour around Bayon starts at the lower regions and ascends to the top part where you come face to face with the four faced structures.  The Bayon temple is surrounded by other structures such as Baphoun, which  looks like a temple mountain and the Elephants and Leper King terraces that also has its own story in the history.  The whole Angkor Thom is a walled city with two gates with a stone faced carving at the peak.

You just can’t miss the huge stone faced structures at the Bayon Temple

Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm was Constructed Mid 12th Century to Early 13th Century

Ta Prohm is a fusion of a temple and jungle complex.  This is one of my favorite temples as the mere site of the strangling fig tree overpowering the ruins of the temples is just amazing on how nature co-existed with the temples over time.  This area was also included in the first Tomb Raider movie. The tree-in-the-temple structures have also attracted tourist to visit this site.  The jungle feel of the temple makes it really enchanting and the rubles all around the place adds the adventure vibe to the area.  Navigating Ta Prohm is always a visual delight and gets even better as you go deeper in the area.

Tomb Raiding in Ta Prohm

Pre Rup

Pre Rup was Constructed late 10th Century

Pre Rup looked like a temple mountain with a nice view of the countryside which is why it’s one of the popular sites for Sunset Watchers. It’s among the first temples built after the capital of the Khmer empire was transferred to Angkor.   At the top you see beautifully carved false doors and also has richly detailed and well preserved carvings.

Pre Rup Sunset

Banteay Samre

Bantaey Samre was constructed mid 12th Century

Bantaey Samre is 3 Kilometers away from Siem Reap and is a usual stopover on the way to the Bantaey Srey which is 38 kilometers of Siem Reap.  The structures are very similar to that of Angkor Wat as they were constructed around the same era.

Bantaey Srey

Bantaey Srey was constructed in the late 10th Century

Bantaey Srey lies 38 kilometers from Siem Reap and is really worth the travel since the temple have the most intricate and detailed carvings forming part of the classical Khmer Art as compared to the other temples.  The structures are similar to that of Angkor Wat with the three massive temple structures but with a more intricate carvings as part of the design of the temple.  The temple also has a boating area and a moat that adds beauty to the facade of Banaey Srey.  The temple was built at the time to honor a king.

The Moat at the backdrop of Bantaey Srey

Ta Som

Ta Som was constructed late 12th Century

Ta Som is a lot similar to the Bayon Temple with the four faced structures and also has the vibe of Ta Prohm with trees also growing in some of the temple structures.

Neak Phan

Neak Pean was constructed late 12th Century

The unique thing about Neak Pean was that it was situated in the middle of a pool and the you have to pass through a walk way surrounded by murky waters which becomes an even scenic backdrop with the combination of the plants in the waters.  The small island temple mesh well with the pool surrounding it.

Preah Khan

Preah Khan was constructed late 12th Centyre

Preah Khan is a lot similar to Ta Prohm with the Strangling Fig Tree overpowering the temple walls.  The place is also full of carvings and scenic passages within the temple since it used to serve as a Buddhist Monastery and School before.

 

It was a great to be a Tomb Raider and a Temple Runner in Angkor

It’s always great appreciating Angkor and Siem Reap as its glorious past remains evident to this date and there are still a lot to explore but it was fun be a tomb raider and a temple runner and traveling to the Khmer Empire’s ancient past and appreciating how the 10th to 12th century infrastructure swill stand out to the modern day.

And here’s another look again at the very scenic Angkor Wat International Half Marathon.

Categories: My Travels | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 202 Comments