Columbia trail run, regatta festival this summer

CEBU, Philippines - Columbia Sportswear through the Primer Group of Companies formally launched its two major events this summer, a trail run and regatta festival with the aim of helping preserve the beauty of nature.The Columbia Eco Trail Run is set to take place on May 6 in the northern Cebu town of Carmen. It features the 7K (executive) and 15K (elite) categories not only to hardcore trail runners but also to spelunkers (cave explorers).

“The race has a technical terrain with cave passage, limestone rock trail, mountain ridge, canyons and river trail,” said Larry Honoridez in a press conference the other day at Golden Prince Hotel.

“When you’re there, you think you’re in a different dimension especially when you reach the grotto of Our Lady of the Immaculate Concepcion and Pedro Calungsod,” added Ralph Pilapil, one of the members of the highly-respected Philippine Mt. Everest team.

Registration fee is pegged at P350 for the 7K and P650 for the elite. Those who want to avail of an event jersey will have to pay additional P100.

The organizers will provide free transportation going to the venue. There will also be a campsite for those who wish to camp out before the race.

On the other hand, the regatta festival is scheduled on May 19 tentatively at Shangri-la in Mactan Island.

What makes the regatta different is that the participants will have to recycle used water bottles as main materials in building their boats.

 “Blue is the new 'green' campaign of the Primer Group of Companies. Blue since we are doing this event on the sea with aim of promoting recycling and developing a love for the outdoors,” said Dax Ang, technical specialist of Everest Outdoor.

The regatte will be a tandem slalom competition.Entry fee is pegged at P2,500 inclusive of a rash guard that will be worn during the entire activity.

For registration, interested parties may visit Columbia outlet at SM City-Cebu and R.O.X. in Ayala Center Cebu.—(FREEMAN)