1st OCAI RUN, a Run for a Cause at Ortigas Center

Running enthusiasts will be psyched to learn that they will be able to sprint through the wide and hilly avenues of Ortigas Center come June 27, 2010. Thanks to the Ortigas Center Association, Inc. (OCAI), a non-stock, non-profit organization commissioned to uphold the stature of Ortigas Center as one of the nation’s prime business districts, the very first OCAI Run will have its gun start at 5:00am for 10k runners, 5:15am for 5k runners and 5:30am for 3k runners in front of the Philippine Stock Exchange in Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

But this won’t be your usual, pardon the pun, run-of-the-mill race. What makes this different from the myriad fun runs that dominate the country’s fitness calendars these days is the location. “Never before has Ortigas Center hosted a run before,” said race director Rudy Biscocho. “Due to the elevation in and around the Ortigas Center area, there will be uphill stretches guaranteed to test your mettle,” he teased. “But naturally, for every uphill climb there is a reward, and you can improve you time by increasing your pace downhill,” explained Biscocho.

The 10k route will feature a downhill trek on Lanuza Drive in Valle Verde and an uphill stretch on Julia Vargas Avenue. The 3k and 5k races will be a more casual breeze within the Ortigas Center.

“This first ever road run in Ortigas Center aims to accomplish the goals of the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center and Balance Lifestyle Fitness,” said Luz N. Cotoco, Chairman of OCAI. “It is also for the benefit of the various humanitarian projects of RCOC,” added Cotoco.

Registration fee is Php 400 for any of the three distances which is inclusive of one race bib, baller band, route map, finisher shirt and loot bag that will be given out right after the run. All proceeds of the OCAI Run will go to the humanitarian projects of the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center. Registration period is from April 30 to June 23, 2010, at all Mizuno outlets and at OCAI Office until June 26. Many raffle prizes including a Technomarine watch and giveaways await lucky participants, while cash prizes will be given to the top 3 finishers of each category.
For inquiries call 890-4230 and 0922-8367990 and look for Ms Ana Salas. Or check out their Facebook page by searching for “OCAI Run”.

The OCAI Run is organized by OCAI with RCOC, presented by the Ortigas & Company Limited Partnership and sponsored by HSBC, Meralco, Puregold, The San Miguel Corporation, First Holdings, Flanax, Xenical, The Oriental Assurance Corporation, BusinessWorld, CCI Enterprises, SM Megamall, Robinsons Department Store, Unilever and Ropali.