Condura Skyway Marathon 2011 : Race Review

The Condura Skyway Marathon ( formerly called the Condura Run in 2010 ) Run for the Dolphins , is definitely the first major event in the Philippine running community this 2011. The race promised unmatched running experience in the skyway and a great opportunity to help in the protection of dolphins of Baclayon, Bohol. An annual event organized by the Concepcion brothers, this event was one of the most talked about and anticipated event to start 2011 with a blast. The categories were complete, from 3K run to a marathon. This years event also promised longer skyway experience for 42K and 21k runners and skyway experience for 16K and 10K runners. With all the good feedbacks coming from last years race and the rants on this years registration fees, here is my personal review on the said event.

The Route.

What better experience would it be than running in the skyway, no cars, no trucks, just runners enjoying the route. The event just did that, it gave the 42K, 21K, 16K and 10K runners a piece of that experience. A combination of rolling uphills and downhills and a breeze of cool air in the morning greeted every runners. Wide lanes prevented congestions on the skyway. Overall a well lighted route. Everything seems to be perfect, then came the Buendia to BGC stretch. With the number of runners joining the event and all race categories merging at one single point, congestion was evident on some areas. The Kalayaan flyover presents the usual last challenge before the finish line. All in all it was a unique, accurate , challenging and enjoyable route.

The Run.

With the high price of registration, every runner expected for a good running experience. The organizers did not fail us. Hydration was overflowing and served on long tables to avoid congestions. The skyway was more than enough to handle the large volume of runners. Medical aid are present and visible everywhere. The shower truck is also a nice touch. Kilometer markers are almost complete and accurate. The encouraging phrases on each kilometer markers is a big plus.

The Pre/Post Event.

The event was marketed as a big event, thus, an exciting pre/post was expected. The organizers never failed. The pre event was fun, warm ups and stretching was indeed right on. It was a good start for the whole event. The post event was good as well, it serves as a great end to a good race. If there is one thing that could be improved next year, its the baggage station. I'm not complaining, but, I think the baggage station for 21K during the race is rather slow ( maybe attributed on the seperate paper bracelet for the baggage tags ).

The Freebies/Kits.

Despite the pricey registration, I believe the freebies and kits are reasonable. The dri-fit shirt ( though, not asics ) is a collectible item, nice for runs. The discount coupon at asics is also a nice add ( I was not able to use mine ). The loot bag is not bad at all. The medal is awesome. Best of all, free coors light beer after the race :)

The Organizer.

Kudos to the organizers for putting up a great event. They were accomodating right from the start of registration down to the complaints and issues after the event itself. They seem to know what the runners need and wants and they responded to it. The online registration was a welcome addition. If there is one thing that needs to change ( if possible ) is the race photo company that took care of the event. As others have mentioned, it was expensive as compared to the free photos being given by another photo company. But then again, this is just a minor detail, all in all the organizers did well.

My Conclusion.

Despite the rants and raves regarding the registration fee, the race was a huge success. Combining the terrific skyway route and the well done organization of the whole event was a priceless experience. Will I ever run this race again next year? Definitely a YES. I am planning to do the 42K come 2012.