By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
The Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) is hosting a virtual half-marathon to encourage the public to remain physically active despite the pandemic.
Dubbed as the “Fineguard Sport National Half-Marathon Virtual Challenge”, the event will take place on Feb. 22 to 28 for participants age 18 to 59 years old.
“This is our response to the pandemic,” PATAFA chief Philip Juico said in Thursday afternoon’s online press conference.
Participants must navigate the 21-kilometer distance in one continuous session in one day using fitness tracking tools and running apps. They needed to take screenshots of the distance completed, actual start time in watch or mobile phone, and actual finish time.
Participants may also opt to run outdoors or on a treadmill.
Registration is pegged at P700 (including dri-fit shirt and race bib to be delivered), and P200.
Corresponding tiers will be awarded to runners who finish the race in less than one hour and 30 minutes (Gold League), 1:30.01 to 1:59.00 (Silver) and 1:59.00 or slower (Bronze).
Special cash prizes will also be given to runners with selfie photos of the most scenic course, as well as with the most creative get-up and pose while wearing a Fineguard sports mask.
“We are conscious that many people are addicted to running and they’re looking for events that are safe but at the same time enjoyable, so we are organizing this,” Juico said.
Fineguard CEO Jim Lafferty, who has been supporting PH track and field athletes through the years, boasts of their innovative face mask that offers both protection and comfort to users, particularly active athletes.
Olympic-bound pole vaulter EJ Obiena was seen using this along with reigning Olympic champion Thiago Braz of Brazil, Matt Ludwig of the United States, and former world champion Pawel Wojciechowski of Poland during a virtual tournament last year.
