Danao City concludes its inaugural International Ultra Trail Running Event,
showcasing its prowess in the sports tourism landscape. The event, which features four challenging
distances—15km, 30km, 50km and 100km—sets a benchmark for future trail running
championships and firmly establishes Danao City as a premier destination for sports tourism.
594 runners from around the globe converge on the unique trails of Danao City, displaying
unwavering dedication and determination. Participants and spectators alike bear witness to the
indomitable spirit of these athletes as they tackle the city’s distinctive landscapes, including its four
breathtaking peaks—Mt. Licos, Manghilao Peak, Mt. Lantawan and Mt. Mago.
The most challenging distance, the 100KM, crowns champions – Andy Toniacao for males,
finishing in just under 24 hours (20:37:22), and Chloe Base for females, completing the race in 29
hours, 31 minutes and 43 seconds.
In this tough and gruelling category, only 14 out of 54 runners have finished the race. Despite the
challenges, lack of sleep and various obstacles, the finishers persevered, embodying the resilient
and optimistic values of the Danawanon Community.
Hon. Ivy Durano, City Councilor, and Committee Chair on Tourism, commends the runners,
stating, “Today, we applaud not only the physical skill that brought you to the finish line but also
the mental fortitude that enabled you to tackle every twist and turn of this extraordinary trail. Your
commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing challenges is truly commendable.
In the face of rugged terrains and unpredictable weather, you demonstrated the true essence of
endurance and sportsmanship. Your presence here today symbolizes the triumph of dedication,
training, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.”
The success of the 1st Danao City International Ultra Trail event marks a significant milestone for
the city as it positions itself on the global stage of ultra trail running. The event is organized by
Danao City Government, Virago Sports Management Services, Managanay sa Norte, Race Yaya
and Ramon Nito Family Foundation Incorporated, with the sanction of Asia Trail Master. Notably,
it also serves as one of the 2024 qualifiers for the Philippine Trail Running Championship with the
Philippine Trail Running Association.
Christine Ferrera, Vice President/Secretary General of the Philippine Trail Running Association
(PhilTRA), highlighted the significance of the event, saying, “This is actually a Philippine Trail
Running Championship… We are very glad to have Danao City hosts this 1st Danao City
International Ultra Trail. Part of our thrusts is to elevate the trail running standards of the
Philippines, create an event that is as par with the world’s best, and this weekend has shown that
the Philippines, can in fact, be a host to an event that is as par with what the other countries have
to offer.
I’ve done several races and just being there, seeing the route, seeing the aid station was really
impressive and we hope this is a step forward to really pushing and elevating the standard of trail
races in the Philippines and putting us in the world map of trail running.”
Kris Van de Velde, Asia Trail Master (ATM) Founder and General Manager, adds, “The Danao
City International Ultra Trail this year was a candidate race for the Asia Trail Master
Championship Series, that means that it was kind of a test to see if the race is worthy or the event
is worthy to be included in the championship series next year. And I can say, that it was a very big
success, so I really hope that next year, the event will be in the Asia Trail Master Championship
Series. This event was really really a good one. I compare with the rest of Asia, and of course also
with the rest of the Philippines, this was a standout event in the Philippines.”
As the trails echo with the sound of determined footsteps, Danao City embraces its role as a
thriving hub for sports tourism, solidifying its reputation as a place where athletes test their limits
amidst the breathtaking beauty of its trails, HERE AND NOW.