The Conquer 2nd TarakRidge 25km Via Paniquian Falls

I joined Conquer's year opening event tagged as 2nd Tarak Ridge. This was my second time to join Conquer's organized event, the first was 25km in Tanay Rizal last September of 2015.

Standing on the starting line with some known names and faces in the trail running community might give you chill or inspiration what ever you want it to be. Sure, there are lots of strong and dedicated runners, however, I just want to run and experience the fun, rather than to compete. For this race, I experience to get cramps in my left calves early on, just after I enter the trail going to Paniquian falls. I just walked with the pain reaching the falls and rest a little on the aid stations, as I know it will be all uphill until the summit.

At the starting line

As I reached the summit the pain subsides and I descend with much faster pace and confident only to be affected by cramps again this time in my right leg. I just smiled and continue to descend walking slowly until I reached Papaya River.

Trail Friends

At the Papaya river I met my friends who support me on this race. They gave me trail foods and drinks to continue.

Descending from the summit

From Papaya river, I have no options but to continue walking to the finish line with my right leg still in pain.

I reached the finish line after 7 hours and 30 minutes.

The event was well organized. There are lot of trail markers, local support, event marshall, first aider, and photographer.

Congratulations to Team Conquer and to Race director Benedict Meneses for a job well done.

Special thanks to Eru and Luigi for the support on this race

Thanks to sir Don for joining me on this event.

With master and coach Don

Thanks to Active Pinas and Running Photographer

for all the pictures used on this post.

and Thanks to the Almighty for giving me strength and keeping me safe throughout the race.

Happy Finisher.