Trail runners on the Grandmaster Quest now also have a chance to score a point at the rebranded A1 Philippines - Cordillera Mountain Terraces event in Banau, Ifugao, Luzon. Previously known as Amuyao, a Candidate Race in 2024, the event now features a 100 Miles race as longest ultra, alongside a 50 Miles, which still carries the name Amuyao Mountain Ultra 50 Miles. These are the two categories in which a Grandmaster point can be earned.

Less ambitious runners can also opt for shorter categories such as 42km, 25km and 10km.

A new name, but the event will actually already be held for a 10th time in 2026. Scheduled for the weekend of 20-23 August, it is also a fund raising event to support the rehabilitation od Batad Village, which was heavily affected of the landslide caused by the recent typhoon. We are in the heart of the Cordilleras here.

The official event description says it all: “Set in the stunning landscapes of Banaue, Ifugao. Runners will pass through the extreme natural landscapes of the great Ifugao and Mountain Province villages, mountains, and terraces, which were built more than 2,000 years ago and are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It will pass also with the two prominent mountains of Cordillera - Mt. Amuyao and Mt. Napulawan. Brace yourself for rugged trails, breathtaking views of the famous Banaue Rice Terraces, and an unforgettable adventure alongside fellow passionate runners! leave your mark on one of the toughest courses in the Philippines.”

As beautiful as it may be, this is also very tough terrain. Start and finish is at Banaue Ethnic Village. 100 Milers already begin their long journey on Thursday at 15:00 in the afternoon, and are supposed to be back 72 hours later. The 50 milers start at 3 am on Saturday early morning need to return by 15:00 on Sunday as well.

Registration is already open. Via the facebook page below you can get all necessary details. As always for the Cordilleras, coming from Manila or Clark, your first gateway is Baguio.