Trail runners from across Mindanao and beyond are set to converge in Davao City on July 25-26 for the DC Trail Ultra, which is poised to become the island’s biggest trail running event, drawing thousands of participants across multiple race categories.
With a total of 3,000 participating runners, the DC Trail Ultra marks the first trail running event organized by the City Government of Davao. The race features challenging distance categories, including 50 kilometers for professional runners, 25 kilometers and 12 kilometers for intermediate trail runners, and a beginner-friendly 5-kilometer course.
Mikey Aportadera, Head of the City Sports Development Division, said that the upcoming trail run marks a significant milestone as it is the first time for Davao City to host a trail running event of this scale. It was also met with overwhelming support and enthusiasm from the trail running community not only in Davao City but across Mindanao.
“First of its kind for Davao City to host such an event and grabe ang pag-sign up ani (It is the first time for Davao City to host this kind of event, and the sign-ups were overwhelming),” he said.
He added that around 30 to 50 pro-runners signed up for the event.
“Professional runners will be arriving with some coming from around the Asia-Pacific, and for the first time that we’ll have it here in Davao amoa na’ng gipa-sanction sa federation of trail running in Asia Pacific that would require some of the trail running professionals to come here and join (Professional runners will be arriving, with some coming from across the Asia-Pacific. Since this is the first time we are holding it here in Davao, we have already had it sanctioned by the trail running federation in Asia-Pacific, which will require some of the trail running professionals to come here and join),” Aportadera said.
A total of Php 1 million-worth of prizes await the event’s top runners. Cash prizes will be awarded to the Top 10 male and Top 10 female runners in each distance category, with additional cash prizes for the Top 3 male and Top 3 female finishers by age category. Overall Top 3 runners in each distance will also receive the official DC Trail Ultra cap.
Beyond pushing limits and conquering the trails, the event aims to highlight the scenic beauty and vibrant communities along the race route. “It’s not only about racing,” Aportadera emphasized. “It’s more about showcasing the communities inside the race area and the beauty of Davao City’s backroads, as well as the convenience of getting there.”
The DC Trail Ultra race route is currently being finalized, with organizers ensuring the highest safety standards for all participants. Further information and updates will be posted on the official DC Trail Ultra Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/davaocitytrailultra. CIO
Written by: J. Villaluz
Edited by: A. Nawal and J. Opiana