F'Lomlok is a new ATM Candidate Race in South Cotabato
Trail running has been booming in Mindanao since a few years. Not only are there now several good events, but also a huge number of runners - some of whom even have reached elite status. Think of Arnie Macaneras, Godwin Mirar, Kik Suello, Roberto Cain III, Jomarc Ferrer, Shally Yuson, Kim Flores, Julieann Morales and many others. Initially, events got established in Davao and later in Bukidnon, but recently we also observe several new organisations popping up near General Santos City in the south of the large island of Mindanao, which is actually closer to Sabah on Malaysian Borneo than to Luzon (Manila). F’Lomlok Trail Run is the latest new addition to the trail calendar and the event has applied for ATM Candidate Race status for its inaugural edition on 5/6 September.
Organised by Lady Justice Endurance Events, F’Lomlok turns around Polomolok and Mount Matutum. On the programme are several race distance categories, of which the 70km is the longest. Goal of the organising team is indeed to have that longest race included in the Grandmaster Quest calendar going forward. Furthermore, the event aims to position itself as a recognized and sustainable destination race by continuously attracting local and international trail runners, while promoting eco-tourism and community involvement within the municipality of Polomolok.
Mount Matutum stands out in the landscape and is a remote volcano, the highest point in the South Cotabato region. The peak is 2286m above sea level. Trail runners cannot go to the peak but will run on the slopes of the volcano. Elevation gain for the 70km is estimated at over 3100 hm and the route is nearly entirely offroad. The race director points out that proper trail running footwear is a must for this course. Start and finish is set at the Landan Elementary School at the Landan Barangay in Polomolok. Cut off time is 21 hours with the start set for 15:00 in the afternoon (Saturday).
Less ambitious runners can also opt for shorter distances, such as 42km, 25km, 15km and 5km.
General Santos City is the nearest airport (30km fron Polomolok) and there are also bus services from Davao and a few other places.
Registration goes via the form linked below.
