Some 2,000 runners are expected to race in the first ever “Mayor Mike Rama Cebu City Midnight Marathon” on Dec. 1 in the South Road Properties (SRP).
Organized by Cebu City Councilor Richie Osmeña, the run will feature a full 42k marathon which is the kick-off event of the “Kasadya sa SRP” a program designed to promote the SRP.
The launching was held yesterday at the Apurado Restaurant attended by Councilor Osmeña, co-organizer Jeson Guardo of G-Concepts, Alan Delantar, Carlo Dugaduga and race director Joel Juarez.
The event is also for the benefit of Operation Second Chance Foundation and the Vicente Sotto Psychiatric ward. According to Dugaduga, most of the mentally-ill patients in the VSMMC are prematurely released due to budget constraints that’s why he is thankful that Councilor Osmeña chose the facility as one of the race’s beneficiaries.
Meanwhile, a 21k half marathon and 5k distances will also be offered. The 42k race will kick off at 12 midnight while the 21k will fire off at 2:30 a.m. and the 5k at 5 a.m.
“The SRP is Cebu’s pride so we are inviting Cebuano running enthusiasts to join the race. I’m sure this will further promote SRP and promote wellness to the participants,” Councilor Osmeña said. “We want to do something unique that’s why we are staging the midnight marathon which is rarely done in Cebu.”
DOUBLE SECURITY
A total of P200,000 in cash are up for grabs in the race that will traverse Cebu City’s major streets. According to Juarez, since the race takes place at midnight, they will double the number of marshals and security for the safety of the runners.
To make the event more enjoyable, Councilor Osmeña decided to conduct a contest for the Barangay with the best water station along the route.
Juarez added that aside from the cash that will go to the top 10 finishers, they will also give specially designed medals for the 42k and 21k finishers.
Foreign runners will compete in another category.
Registration fee is pegged at P1,200 for the 42k, P700 for the 21k and P350 for the 5k inclusive of the singlet and the race bib. Live bands and a fireworks display will spice up the race.
Registration is available in RUNNR Ayala Center Cebu and at the Cebu City Sports Commission office inside the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC). Online registration will open soon.