Over-all Rating: 7 out of 10.
Pros:
1. Parking was available and comfort rooms were on hand in the stadium for use by runners. I was not able to check if there was a bag deposit counter or medical table as I proceeded to stretch and warm up when I arrived. I would guess these were available anyways.
2. Cool race course. The race started inside the stadium then proceeded to weave in and out of the barangays. It was quite refreshing since you felt like a professional runner with an audience gallery as the Marikenos were out of their houses to watch and support the race. This was one personal race where you literally met the town of Marikina.
There were two great and straight stretches — along the river banks and going home to the stadium. Running along the riverbanks was exhilirating as the road beside the river seemed to stretch forever. There were a lot of people already along the river banks relaxing and walking and it was cool to be running a race as you pass the Sunday families.
The way back also had a long stretch but this one was inside the towns. People were sitting outside and watching thru windows and balconies. You literally ran past beside them. It was cool to smile and do the thumbs up to everybody.
There were bits of uphill but just enough to be challenging. It was again a cool Sunday morning again with the sun peeking only a bit midway through the race. The race ended with 1 round at the Marikina Sports Complex like an Olympic Marathon. I had the soundtrack of Charriots of Fire in my mind as I entered.
3. Marshals were on hand to ensure you did not lose your way given that there were a lot of turns. Road Safety was carefully managed with the Barangays tanods and police of Marikina in full force and visibly supportive.
4. As I crossed the finish line, the Marikenos had some great stuff prepared. Cold Pocari Sweat greeted me plus a banana and hot taho! I enjoyed the taho so much I went for seconds and the staff were kind enough to give me. Thank you very much!
Con
1. The race did not start on time. Started at 6:17 am. The 17 minutes tardiness is really not that bad but its a pet peeve among runners when races do not start on time. We think race organizers as a class act if they are able to fire the starting gun at 6am sharp.
2. Lack of water station. I counted only about 3 stations and I was guessing 2 of those were from the kindness and goodness of the people along the course. The two long stretches especially the river bank part should have had the stations as mandatory.
3. Race course for 10K may have been long. I am guessing at least 1.5 KM longer. Kilometer markers would have been nice to have. KM markers should be mandatory already for the races — these are not difficult and expensive to execute and these are highly appreciated by all runners.
4. The runners mixed with the Sunday joggers when they entered the stadium. It would have been cool to probably reserve the inner lane for the racers. I had to weave in and out of the people inside the stadium. Not a big deal but nice to have.
Over-all, I enjoyed the Marikina race. I enjoyed meeting the Marikenos and for some fleeting moments were part of their day. Hope to see more races in Marikina.
Onwards and Forward!
