When Natalie Dau took her final sprints through the bustling streets of Bonifacio Global City, the crowd cheered for her 1,000-kilometer run and the message she brought across Luzon—courage, compassion, and the power of doing something bold for others.
On May 2, the Singapore-based ultramarathoner crossed the finish line at Jollibee’s 1000th store in BGC, completing the 12-day “Project 1000” run that began in Santa Ana, Cagayan.
Flanked by students, charity partners, and everyday runners who had joined parts of her journey, Dau finished with tears in her eyes and purpose in her stride.
“The overall experience was amazing. There were definitely ups and downs, but it was fantastic,” Dau said.
“Project 1000” was no ordinary ultramarathon. The journey was a partnership with Jollibee, aiming to raise funds and awareness for Filipino children. Along the way, Dau visited communities, shared meals with children, and brought the spirit of giving to life.
“Seeing the children and the charities we stopped in was the most unforgettable thing. It made it all worthwhile,” she added.
Running hundreds of kilometers in the Philippine summer came with its own set of challenges.
“I think the toughest time was about 3:00 a.m. every day—I was just tired. It was dark, we were getting chased by dogs, and I was trying to pull myself out of that. The heat was also intense, especially in the north. It was like 43 degrees some days, so running through that was pretty hard,” Dau recalled.
Despite the physical toll, the support from communities kept her going.
“It was so heartwarming. So overwhelming, I don’t think I’ll process everything until a couple of weeks’ time,” she continued.
Speaking to Manila Standard Life, Dau talked about how her emotions hit hard during her final sprint.
“It was so overwhelming. It was, I think, happiness to be finished. Today was all about just enjoying running with different people, seeing the scholars, and celebrating the run—and celebrating everyone that was part of it,” shared Dau.
When asked to sum up her 1,000-kilometer journey in just three words, she said, “Heartwarming, tough, and humble.”
Jollibee, a key partner throughout the journey, joined at multiple stops to bring meals and smiles to children.
“To be able to feed children along the way who have never had Jollibee and to be able to bring some joy into their lives is what this run is all about. It’s about raising money for Filipino children, and Jollibee has been such an amazing partner,” Dau added.
“I think the joy and the fun in it. Yes, it’s hard, and it was challenging. But I think that we can all make a small difference. And sometimes you’ve got to do a crazy thing to make a difference. It’s okay to be scared to do something, but do it anyway. If you believe, it will happen,” she stated.