Merrell Adventure Run 2013: My first trail run

Exactly a week after my Mt. Pulag trek, I conquered again another mountain -- only this time, I ran.

It was for the Merrell Adventure Run 2013 -- my first trail run. By definition, trail running is:

"a sport which consists of running and hiking over trails. It differs from road running and track running in that it generally takes place on hiking trails, often in mountainous terrain, where there can be much larger ascends and descends." 

Since I started joining (fun) runs in January, I've been actively scouting for runs to join. In keeping with my "one-run-a-month" challenge, I was browsing online for my April run. I wanted something different and more challenging since April is also my birth month. Luckily, a friend introduced us to the Merrell Adventure Run. Kuya Nonoy is an accomplished athlete and runs his own blog called "trails unlimited". He did a test run on the trail and recommended that we register for the run. He can be very convincing, mind you! And so, last April 6, my friend Gina (also a trail run rookie) decided to take on the challenge and registered at the Merrell branch in Trinoma.

The Merrell run was scheduled for April 27 -- precisely a week after our previously scheduled Mt. Pulag hike. Right after signing up for the trail run, I had sudden apprehensions. Was I ready for it? What did I get myself into? Two mountains in a week? Backing out wasn't really an option at this point since we've already registered. The slots aren't transferrable, and I wasn't going to waste the PhP 650 registration fee.

Fast forward

Two weeks after our trail run and I must say, I'm glad I did it.

It wasn't easy... but so are most of the best things in life. Ang pinakamasasarap na karanasan sa buhay ay yung pinaghihirapan. The harder they are to accomplish, the greater the fulfillment and sense of accomplishment.

Upon reaching the summit, I was both relieved and very proud of myself. I finished 346th out of 476 runners. Not very impressive, but not an easy feat either. Not bad for my first trail run.

Got my name spelled wrong. :(

I ran 5k, but was told that the effort of running trails are actually double that of road runs, so it was like running 10k on a level running field.

I also fell instantly in love with the beautiful Mt. Sinai in San Mateo, Rizal. If I get another chance, I would definitely sign up for another trail run. I'd probably stick to 5k, though. Haha!

I thank God for the opportunity and the strength to climb and run mountains! :)

Runners going up the starting line

Gunstart at 6:00 am

Beautiful backdrop of Mt. Sinai

With my gal pal Gina. 

We did it!

It wasn't called Mt. Sinai for nothing. At the summit , you'll find  a shrine of the 10 commandments. 

In order of dirtiness: mine, Gina's and Ate Karen's

New books!

Books always excite me. 

I've been a reader all my life, but never had I thought that I would be so hooked in reading the Bible -- in fact, I bring mine with me everyday. Devotional, Christian books have also occupied an important space in my shelf, and I'm proud to say that my collection is growing. Squeezing in time to read the bible and devotionals despite my busy schedule offers a respite to my otherwise stress-filled days -- like oasis in a vast desert.

Thanks to OMF Lit's Booksale, I have two new books for my collection:

Original price: PHP 225; bought it for PHP95

Original price: PHP450; bought it for PHP360

Last night, I was just browsing through some blogs for recommended readings and saw review about 'The Upside of Adversity.' I wrote it down on my notebook and decided to look for it when I have the time. When I went to check out the book sale, it was among the discount rack of items for PHP 95 each! I also decided to get myself a copy of 'Captivating' which was on 20 percent off. I've read off a few chapters from this book which a friend lent me. I loved reading it so much that I wanted a copy for myself. ♥ 

I end this post by quoting one of my favorite lines from 'Captivating':

"In the spacious love of God, our souls can lie down and rest. This love for Him is not something we must struggle for, earn, or fear to lose. It is bestowed. He has bestowed it upon us. He has chosen us. And nothing can separate us from His love. Not even we, ourselves. We are made for such a love. Our hearts yearn to be loved intimately, personally, and yes, romantically. We are created to be the object of desire nd affection of one who is totally and completely in love with us."