Sante Barley Trilogy Run Asia bares optimism in 2026 races
MANILA, Philippines — Bigger is the mantra for the 2026 edition of the Sante Barley Trilogy Run Asia as it raises the bar for yet another year.
Continuing on its commitment to help running aficionados level up their game, five major cities will host their own three-leg series spread across the year and culminating in the National Finals on November 8 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex.
“We’re hoping to attract even more first-time runners and inspire them to join run clubs and embrace the sport,” said RUNRIO president Rio de la Cruz. “This 2026 will be much, much different compared to last year — more inclusive, more exciting, and more rewarding for all.”
Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro will serve as the center of this year's Trilogy Run series starting in March, with distances being at 5K, 10K, and 16K for Leg 1, with the farthest distance rising to 21K half-marathon for Leg 2, and the unique 32K Afroman distance for Leg 3.
This progression allows participants to gradually step up their distances across three legs, promoting consistency, discipline, and long-term fitness.
"Unique sa atin yung Afroman kasi for runners, when you reach 32K yun yung tinatawag natin na 'the wall.' Mahirap yung part na yun but that's where we come in and encourage them kasi 10K na lang, full marathon na," said de la Cruz.
This year's finisher's medal is an interconnected piece which is building on to a spherical memento that runners would be proud to trot out.
Top finishers in select age groups will also earn guaranteed slots to the 2027 Sydney Marathon, providing a rare international opportunity for local runners.
More incentives also await the runners with those accomplishing all three legs and the National Finals receiving complimentary running caps, while race towels for finishers will be given out at all legs across all categories with distinct designs geared for each city.
De la Cruz also hinted at a possible expansion of the Trilogy Run Asia series, with Indonesia being the main target for the 2027 running season. (Contributed story)
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