Brooks Run Happy 3: Cross Country Challenge

Registration: 5/5
Transportation: 5/5
Hydration: 5/5
Route: 5/5

I have been running for a while now, and Brooks Run Happy 3 is my first try at trail run. The event was held at Sierra Madre in Tanay Rizal lat May 11, 2014. This event is quite unique in that being 'Cross Country', it involves a bit of road, trails, and some obstacle courses.

Registration is fast and easy. I did mine at Toby's SM Mega Mall, and registered for 10K for P950. In less than 20 minutes, registration is done. Race kit includes race bib, race shirt, gloves, and a whistle. I also opted for the bus ride to and from the venue for additional P180.

Runners who opted for the bus ride were picked up at Shell Emerald Ave, Ortigas. The ride going to the venue is around 1.5 hours.

 

Bus full of runners

Arrived at Sierra Madre hotel around 5:30 AM. Prepared myself and deposited my bag at the nearby baggage station.

Baggage Tents

Drone taking aerial shots

The weather is nice. A bit cool morning welcomes the runners. The race started on time. 

 

The trail includes some paved road and mostly bare soil. Around 4 or 5 KM downhill before you reach the 10 KM u-turn. The most difficult part is the way back. All uphill, and the sun is already up. Cold water and sports drink are served along the route. Sponge is also made available. Marshals are from the local community.

Paper cups were used which has less environment impact. Though, it could have been better if runners were required to bring their own hydration bottle to be refilled in the water stations. Garbage bins is not available and some runners mistaken the sponge container to be the garbage bin.

Runners have to go through series of obstacles leading to the finish line. This one's a plus that made this event first of it's kind.

This is indeed a Run Happy!

Downhill

and more downhill

"River Crossing" at the 10K U-Turn