UTCP: great runs on very tough Cordillera trails
It was great to see a new ambitious event taking off in the Cordillera mountains near Baguio in Philippines last weekend. UTCP as the event is now commonly known did not miss its inaugural edition and opportunity as an ATM Candidate Race. A great line-up of trail runners from across the country and a solid organisational team made for a great weekend out of the John Hay camp, close to the city of Baguio. UTCP was serious stuff for runners, however. To the extent some participants argued it was perhaps a bit too technical. Finishing times reflect the tough terrain of the 100km and 50km race courses.
Fastest man on the 100km, named Saleng 100, was Ligorinson Abbugao in a time of 16h18’17”. That was one-and-a-half hours quicker than second-placed Dennies Lajada. Ronnel Valero took third in 18h21, followed by Rafy Ciano and Johnrey Espadon. In the womens’ 100km, Rhea Falitnang was once again outstanding and took the victory in 22h14. Elma Bengwasen and Maria Isabel Reyes were second and third in 24h12. Sandra Patricia Bernal and Grandmaster Ann. Jilian Pulanco finished in fourth and fifth place.
On the 50km we got pleasantly re-acquainted with Randolf Gonzales after a season away from the ATM circuit. Gonzales was fastest in 6h02, twenty minutes ahead of a strong John Taquiqui. They were well ahead of the other competitors, of whom Kart Russel Dela Cruz grabbed third place ahead of Albert Codamon and Vinson Ramos. Also the women’s 50km saw a nice battle for victory with Trisha Reyes eventually taking it in 8h53, just ahead of Myrna Batiyeg. Loraine Dulagan was third in 9h12. One of Philippines’ female trail legends Majo Liao made a nice appearance and finished fourth, ahead of Mercy Tacloy.
100km race winner Ligorinson Abbugao
Great to be back: Randolf Gonzales
Trisha Reyes, fastest woman on the 50km
Rhea Falitnag unbeatable on the women’s 100km
Maria Reyes : third on the 100km