Bataan 52K "Test Run"

7:23 AM 22 February 2009: From KM # 50 (Abucay, Bataan) to KM # 102 (San Fernando, Pampanga)

As the Race Organizer of the 1st Bataan Death March 102K Ultramarathon Race, I deemed it necessary for the runner-applicants to join the Bataan 52K "Test Run" held last 22 February 2009 along the second-half segment of the race route. The Bataan 52K "Test Run" covers the actual route of the race from the Bataan Death March Kilometer Post # 50 in Abucay, Bataan to Kilometer Post No # 102 which is located at the vicinity of the old Railway Statation in San Fernando, Pampanga. It is scheduled to start at 7:00 AM where each runner would be able to finish within a decent time of 9 hours.

The objectives of the "test run" are the following: (1) to train each runner-applicant for the specific situation or condition of the day as they reach the last half of the race course; (2) to orient the runners on the direction and locations of intersections and correct route towards the finish line; (3) to "rehearse" the administrative and logistics support system/plan for the race and be able to correct any lapses along the way; and (4) to test our communication system.

The runners assembled at 6:30 AM at the pre-designated area for the final preparation, instructions, coordination, and for accounting purposes. There were thirty-five (35) runner-applicants who joined in the said "test run". After a briefing by the Bald Runner, stretching exercises by Coach Salazar, "photo-ops" with the group of runners, and a prayer by Coach Salazar (again), the run started at 7:23 AM. The Bald Runner started and led the group of runners along the old National Highway as the group took the road, running with the traffic.

The runners were supported with two (2) Mobile Aid Stations, which were alternately positioned in every 2.5 to 3 kilometers, Security elements from the PNP, staff & personnel of Bald Runner's Events and an Ambulance with Medical Team from the Light Armor Divsion of the Philippine Army. A supply of 100 bottles of Gatorade, 100 bottles of Propel Drinks, 500 bottles of PURE Water courtesy of Armand Fernando and Jonel aka Bugobugo85, hard-boiled eggs, Cloud 9 Chocolates, boiled sweet potatoes, boiled bananas, Sky Flakes crackers, water-soaked foams, and Halo-Halo treat for each runner at Razon's in the vicinity of Kilometer Post # 91, composed of the logistics & support for the runners. At least one half of the number of runners had their respective support crew and vehicles.

The test run went smoothly as planned and all the 35 runner-applicants finished the run without any problems or injuries within the decent time of 9 hours even if we had a 45-minute stop/rest at Razon's. The heat of the sun took its toll to each of the runner but through consistent hydration and eating of available food at the Mobile Aid Stations, each runner was able to withstand the challenge of running an ultramarathon distance.

My congratulations to the finishers as I believe they could withstand the challenge of the actual race for the 102K distance on 05 April 2009. Lessons had been learned during this "test run" and I hope the runners and the support staff would be able to adjust their training/preparation and implementation of their plans & strategy for the race. My thanks also goes to the numerous donors who supported the logistics and administrative requirements of the "test run".

From the feedbacks reaching me, I consider the Bataan 52K "Test Run" a success!