SEVERAL changes are being introduced in the Salomon X-Trail Run Pilipinas 2017 at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on July 23.
The changes to the trail run, which has the theme “Run the Path of Most Resistance,” were announced during a press launch held at the R.O.X. store in Bonifacio Global City recently.
To ensure an environmental-friendly race, event organizers have disbanded the use of disposable cups during the run, requiring all racers to bring their own water jugs. Water-refilling stations can be found at approximately every 4 kilometers.
The race also aims to promote the indigenous people by cooperating with the Aetas as the trails to be used are the routes they often take when traveling.
Unlike the previous X-Trail Runs, Primer has changed the usual gun start of 3:30 a.m. to 8 a.m.
“It falls down to safety,” said Eric Imperio of Extribe, “you want people to be well-rested before taking an activity that will require seven hours for them to do. If you put it at 3 a.m., then you sleep at 10 p.m. they only have a very few hours (of sleep) and it’s out of town.”
Imperio also assured that the participants of the trail run, now on its sixth year, would not complain of the heat as more than half of the path is shaded, providing more resting spots to cool down.
The Fun Trail has two kinds of races which are not only meant for beginners but also for the “fun-loving and adventure-seeking” racers. This trail consists of 6-km and 12-km races, which are now out of road bounds to avoid traffic problems and crowd jamming.
On the other hand, the Mountain Trail covers the 24-km and 32-km races featuring different kinds of terrains from rocks to rivers, providing a never-ending challenge to the racers.
However, due to the dangerous nature of the route, participants will be required to bring a medical certificate, a whistle and a hydration pack/belt carrying 500 mL of water.
Salomon has also released the new shoe models to be used in the race, namely S/Lab Sense 6 SG, S-Lab Sense 6, S-Lab Speed and Sense Marin.
While Salomon assures that all models are lighter and more breathable than last year’s model, S-Lab Sense 6 SG has been designated for damp and muddy routes while S-Lab Sense 6 has its upper mesh more open and lighter than last year’s model.
On the other hand, S-Lab Speed is the most ideal model for fell-runners and Sense Marin gives a more stylish look while offering the same qualities with the other models.
Registration is ongoing until July 15 at Salomon branches in SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA and Glorietta 3. Online listup is also available at www.salomonxtrailpilipinas.com.